Coffee Catch-Up Meet Marsha Desouza
Read excerpts from our Q&A below:
Hi Marsha!
Welcome to IAM. We’re delighted to have you here and thanks for joining us for coffee today. You’ve been at IAM for over six months now.
Can you tell us about yourself and your current role within the company?
Certainly! I have had the privilege of gaining diverse experience throughout my career, particularly during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic. During this period, I seized an opportunity to collaborate with investors spanning various asset classes, witnessing firsthand how traders adeptly navigated the complexities of the financial markets.
My journey led me to a pivotal role at ASX, where I immersed myself in the intricacies of Austraclear. Working closely with market participants, I developed a profound appreciation for the corporate bond market, finding its dynamics truly captivating.
My passion for client engagement, coupled with the insights I’ve cultivated within the financial markets, has seamlessly aligned with my current role at IAM in Sydney. This role provides me with the perfect platform to leverage my expertise and contribute meaningfully to the dynamic financial landscape for my investors.
Can you share a memorable experience or project that has had a significant impact on your career?
Reflecting on my career, one standout experience that has shaped my professional journey occurred during a previous role. I was fortunate to be invited to join the women’s committee within the company, where I actively participated in organizing events specifically tailored for women staff. This experience not only provided me with the opportunity to engage with and be inspired by remarkable women in finance but also underscored the importance of fostering a supportive environment.
Encountering these influential women, who approached their roles with a blend of intelligence and empathy, has proven to be a defining factor for me. I gained valuable insights from their perspectives, providing me with an edge in my career. This experience has reinforced my commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in the workplace, values that continue to resonate in my professional endeavours.
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Now, let’s dive deeper into your expertise and how you operate within the ever-changing financial markets:
What are some of the common misconceptions you’ve come across in your experience regarding the bond market?
One prevalent misconception I’ve encountered is that the bond market is smaller than the equity market. When in comparison the bond market is almost three times bigger! While bonds might appear less attractive to some investors, it’s crucial to recognize the magnitude of the bond market especially since bonds compete for investment dollars with equities.
Bonds serve as a vital source of funds for diverse entities, including households, governments, financial institutions, and non-financial institutions while playing a fundamental role in efficiently allocating capital to its optimal use.
Do you have a personal investment mantra or any guiding principles or philosophies that inform your investment approach? How do you continue to learn and stay updated in your field?
My personal mantra is “Time in the market beats timing in the market”. A crucial aspect of my daily routine involves listening to financial markets podcasts as part of my morning ritual. This practice allows me to maintain a finger on the market’s pulse, especially when interpreting the implications of newly released economic data. Continuous learning through these dynamic channels helps me refine my investment strategies and stay well-informed.
Shifting gears a bit, we’d like to get to know you on a more personal level.
Beyond the professional realm, what hobbies or interests do you pursue in your leisure time?
I’m constantly exploring hiking trails I’ve marked on my Google Maps app, particularly on weekends. Sydney’s abundant coastline and breathtaking bush trails keep me captivated. I also relish engaging in camping sessions with friends and family, cherishing these opportunities to connect without the distractions of the work week.
How do you manage to strike a balance between your professional commitments and your personal interests, ensuring your overall well-being?
Throughout the work week, I maximize my days by staying active—whether it’s a spirited game of tennis or a refreshing run. Additionally, I make it a point to unwind by experimenting with recipes trending on Instagram or working on an art project.
Marsha’s Favourite Bonds
The first bond is Pacific National Floating Note 27s, it’s a high-quality bond with yields touching 7%^. The company is a key player in Australia’s infrastructure transportation sector while mitigating emissions and having a positive environment and social impact. It’s a good opportunity to an investor concerned with duration and diversify away from financials.
The second bond is the new Westpac Fixed Note, this is your major bank that’s recently issued a Tier 2 transaction with a fixed coupon of 7.199% callable in 10 years. We saw heavy demand into this deal being a major bank coming in above 7%. This pricing is evident of market conditions right now as well as the need to raise debt heading into the end of the calendar year^.
