Month: April 2026

Liquidity as a Strategic Asset in Changing Markets

Liquidity as a Strategic Asset in Changing Markets

Market conditions have shifted, and what once seemed like a simple allocation decision now demands far more attention.

How should investors think about access to cash when uncertainty, higher rates, and private markets all collide?

In this episode, host Paul Fahey is joined by Faisal Ansari, Global Head of Liquidity Solutions, and Andrew Sepiol, CFA, Liquidity Solutions Product Manager at Northern Trust, to explore why liquidity is now a central focus for asset owners. They explain how rising rates, market volatility, and growing allocations to private markets are reshaping liquidity strategies. 

The conversation also covers how cash is evolving from a defensive position to a strategic asset, along with the importance of forecasting, diversification, and data-driven decision making.

Key takeaways:

  • How higher interest rates and volatility are increasing the importance of liquidity across portfolios
  • Why cash is shifting from a defensive tool to a strategic allocation with meaningful return potential
  • The growing impact of private markets on liquidity planning and forecasting complexity
  • How segmentation of cash supports operational needs, reserves, and long-term portfolio strategy
  • The role of data, reporting, and AI tools in improving forecasting and liquidity decision-making
  • And more!

Connect with Andrew Sepiol:

Connect with Faisal Ansari:

About Faisal Ansari:

Private Equity’s Liquidity Moment: What Investors Need to Know Now (Video)

Private Equity’s Liquidity Moment: What Investors Need to Know Now (Video)

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey is joined by Adam Freda, Managing Director at 50 South Capital, for an in-depth conversation on the evolving private equity landscape.

They explore how recent market conditions have challenged traditional assumptions around liquidity and diversification, why private equity secondaries have grown into a critical source of flexibility for institutional investors, and how continuation vehicles are reshaping exit strategies. Adam also breaks down the growing role of evergreen funds—what they solve for, where risks can emerge, and why they’re likely to coexist alongside traditional closed-end funds rather than replace them.

The discussion covers portfolio construction across vintages and strategies, the importance of manager quality in volatile environments, and how investors are navigating private equity and private credit amid higher rates, slower exits, and rapid technological change. Listen in to understand today’s private markets—and what to watch next.

 

Grant Johnsey is a FINRA‑registered representative of Northern Trust Securities, Inc. Adam Freda is not FINRA registered and is an employee of 50 South Capital, an affiliate asset management firm of Northern Trust. Adam Freda is not acting in a broker‑dealer capacity and does not offer brokerage services.

This podcast is presented for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any security, strategy, or investment product.

Any references to returns, performance characteristics, or investment outcomes are illustrative and not guaranteed. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Actual outcomes may vary significantly.

Northern Trust Asset Servicing, Northern Trust Securities, Inc., and 50 South Capital are affiliated entities under the Northern Trust corporate structure. Statements made by representatives of affiliated entities reflect their respective perspectives and business lines.

Investment products and services referenced may not be available in all jurisdictions and are offered only where permitted by law and regulation.

Private Equity’s Liquidity Moment: What Investors Need to Know Now

Private Equity’s Liquidity Moment: What Investors Need to Know Now

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey is joined by Adam Freda, Managing Director at 50 South Capital, for an in-depth conversation on the evolving private equity landscape.

They explore how recent market conditions have challenged traditional assumptions around liquidity and diversification, why private equity secondaries have grown into a critical source of flexibility for institutional investors, and how continuation vehicles are reshaping exit strategies. Adam also breaks down the growing role of evergreen funds—what they solve for, where risks can emerge, and why they’re likely to coexist alongside traditional closed-end funds rather than replace them.

The discussion covers portfolio construction across vintages and strategies, the importance of manager quality in volatile environments, and how investors are navigating private equity and private credit amid higher rates, slower exits, and rapid technological change. Listen in to understand today’s private markets—and what to watch next.

 

Grant Johnsey is a FINRA‑registered representative of Northern Trust Securities, Inc. Adam Freda is not FINRA registered and is an employee of 50 South Capital, an affiliate asset management firm of Northern Trust. Adam Freda is not acting in a broker‑dealer capacity and does not offer brokerage services.

This podcast is presented for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any security, strategy, or investment product.

Any references to returns, performance characteristics, or investment outcomes are illustrative and not guaranteed. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Actual outcomes may vary significantly.

Northern Trust Asset Servicing, Northern Trust Securities, Inc., and 50 South Capital are affiliated entities under the Northern Trust corporate structure. Statements made by representatives of affiliated entities reflect their respective perspectives and business lines.

Investment products and services referenced may not be available in all jurisdictions and are offered only where permitted by law and regulation.