Exploring Fixed Income SMAs with BlackRock's Chris Ryan

Renowned for its expertise and commitment to client satisfaction, BlackRock has made significant strides in revolutionizing the financial industry through its Separately Managed Accounts (SMAs) offering. BlackRock places an emphasis on meeting the needs of its end clients, regardless of whether they are institutional giants or retail investors. In this episode, Rusty and Robyn talk with Chris Ryan, BlackRock's Senior Fixed Income Portfolio Manager. In his role, Chris primarily covers the southeast part of the U.S., delivering model-based and custom solutions in both the taxable and tax-exempt space for high-net-worth individuals, institutions, foundations, pensions, charitable organizations, and religious organizations, among others. He works closely with their New York-based corporate team to help filter out the most appropriate credits for their SMA clients while providing consistent updates to help drive decisions to buy, sell and hold positions.  With nearly 13 years of experience at BlackRock and previous experience at Merrill Lynch, Chris talks with Rusty and Robyn about fixed income separately managed accounts (SMAs) and how they differ from bonds and ETFs. He also discusses the benefits of fixed income separately managed accounts, the current challenges of the bond market, and the opportunities of municipal bonds. Key Takeaways [02:32] - Chris's background and career in the financial industry. [03:37] - What a fixed income separately managed account (SMA) is and its benefits. [05:36] - What it's like to work as a fixed income SMA portfolio manager. [08:17] - What sets BlackRock apart and its secret sauce for success. [12:02] - BlackRock's views on the bond markets. [15:34] - What BlackRock's state-specific personalization in municipal bonds is all about.  [17:33] - BlackRock's offerings on Orion, including strategies, minimums, and fees. [19:39] - How Chris maintains his physical and mental energy to perform well. [20:16] - The mentors and colleagues Chris is grateful for. [21:06] - Chris' recommendations for content. Quotes [05:08] - "Separately Managed Accounts (SMAs) give the client the ability to personalize their holdings not only to their tax situation but also to their values preferences." ~ Chris Ryan [09:03] - "One factor that has set BlackRock apart is that it focuses on end clients' needs first and foremost, whether that be institutional or retail clients. BlackRock provides the client a better overall understanding of the risks within their investible universe." ~ Chris Ryan [11:03] - "Interactions that are built on trust and solid client service lead to a longer-lasting relationship." ~ Chris Ryan Links  Chris Ryan on LinkedIn BlackRock Back in Black by AC/DC Merrill Lynch Aladdin by BlackRock Ryan Nielsen The Bid Fixed Income in 15 Macro Musings with David Beckworth Connect with Us Meet Rusty Vanneman, Orion's Chief Investment Officer Check Out All of Orion's Podcasts Power Your Growth with Orion 2146-OPS-8/4/2023