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In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Shawn Gallegos, Chief Investment Executive at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Shawn shares a behind-the-scenes look at how the hospital’s Office of Investments manages a diverse portfolio—including operating funds, pension assets, and an innovation fund—while navigating the unique challenges of the healthcare sector.

Shawn dives into how his team balances risk and growth, maintain the hospital’s strong credit rating, and strategically allocate assets across equities, hedge funds, fixed income, and private investments. The conversation explores the evolving role of hedge funds in moderating portfolio volatility, the cautious approach to private credit and equity, and the importance of liquidity in a sector facing rising costs and demographic shifts.

Shawn also discusses the adoption of technology and analytics, including the Total Portfolio Approach (TPA), and how Northwestern Memorial’s innovation fund supports early-stage companies developing solutions for hospital operations. The episode closes with forward-looking insights on investment strategy adjustments for 2026.

Tune in to hear key insights on institutional investing, healthcare finance, and the intersection of innovation and portfolio management.