What if the biggest edge in investing today isn't having more information—but knowing how to turn information into conviction?
In this episode, I sit down with Matt Wells to discuss how AI is reshaping the investment process, why investors are drowning in data but starving for conviction, and where information alpha still exists in increasingly efficient markets. Matt explains the evolution of expert networks, how the best investors use expert calls and channel checks to build differentiated insights, and w...
What if the biggest edge in investing today isn't having more information—but knowing how to turn information into conviction?
In this episode, I sit down with Matt Wells to discuss how AI is reshaping the investment process, why investors are drowning in data but starving for conviction, and where information alpha still exists in increasingly efficient markets. Matt explains the evolution of expert networks, how the best investors use expert calls and channel checks to build differentiated insights, and why qualitative information often drives quantitative outcomes. We also explore decision-grade AI, conviction building, private market diligence, and how the role of the analyst is changing in an AI-driven world.
Highlights:
- Why investors today are drowning in data but starving for conviction
- The difference between information and decision-grade intelligence
- How expert calls evolved from niche hedge fund tools into scalable research platforms
- Why qualitative signals often become quantitative outcomes
- The role of channel checks in forecasting company performance
- How AI can help identify patterns across thousands of expert conversations
- Why conviction matters more than information during periods of volatility
- The future of analysts as architects rather than spreadsheet builders
- How grounded AI differs from general-purpose AI models
- Why human relationships remain irreplaceable in investing and business
Guest Bio:
Matt Wells is a technology executive and entrepreneur focused on applying artificial intelligence and market intelligence tools to investment research and decision-making. Prior to joining AlphaSense, he founded and scaled multiple businesses, bringing a unique operator's perspective to financial technology and research workflows. Today, he works at the intersection of AI, expert intelligence, and investment research, helping institutional investors, corporations, and advisors turn overwhelming amounts of information into actionable insights and higher-conviction decisions.
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wells-932b6a2/
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Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Pierce. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.
(0:00) Why Investors Are Drowning in Data but Starving for Conviction
(2:04) The Dangerous Problem With AI Nobody Talks About
(4:17) How Expert Calls Became a Hidden Edge for Elite Investors
(6:54) The SpaceX IPO Research Strategy Most Investors Won’t Use
(11:17) How Top Funds Turn Hundreds of Expert Calls Into Alpha
(15:58) Why Every Quantitative Model Starts With Qualitative Information
(17:39) Where Investment Alpha Will Come From in an AI World
(20:11) The Missing Ingredient Behind Every Great Investment Thesis
(24:37) Why the Analyst Role Is About to Change Forever
(31:34) The Career Advice That Applies to Investing, Sales, and Life
