Core Viewpoint - The podcast episode titled "When the Big Cycle Fails, Where is the New Macro Coordinate?" hosted by fund manager Tang Jun from Zhongtai Asset Management has gained significant attention, with over 60,000 listeners in a week, indicating a strong interest among investors in learning about macroeconomic frameworks and investment strategies [2][5]. Group 1: Framework Construction - The background and reasons for the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of the Merrill Clock are discussed [5]. - The "Credit-Money" framework is introduced, explaining how to describe the current macroeconomic state based on this framework [5]. - The current macroeconomic state leads to specific asset allocation conclusions [5]. Group 2: Allocation and Portfolio Construction - The distinction between active and passive allocation is made, highlighting the problems that active allocation can solve [9]. - Preparations required for engaging in active allocation are outlined [9]. - The role of FOF (Fund of Funds) in addressing specific issues is examined [9]. - The execution of strategic and tactical layers in investment is discussed [9]. Group 3: Reflections on Human Nature - The importance of understanding human behavior in the context of investment allocation is emphasized, inviting listeners to engage in a professional and rigorous intellectual exchange [6]. Group 4: Risk and Return Concepts - The concept of risk budgeting and how to construct a portfolio within a given risk budget is explained [9]. - The notion of return streams and which assets can represent different return streams is analyzed, drawing lessons from Bridgewater's practices [9]. - The significance of having a framework in investment decision-making is highlighted [9]. - The meaning of logic in investment and the application of probabilistic thinking in market timing are discussed [9].

Core Viewpoint - Asset allocation is a complex and multi-dimensional task, often referred to as "physical labor" due to the extensive research required to achieve effective configurations [1][2][27]. Group 1: Passive vs. Active Allocation - Passive allocation, which relies on diversification to reduce volatility, faces challenges in practice, particularly for domestic investors due to limited asset classes and the poor performance of key assets like A-shares [5][9][27]. - Active allocation aims to enhance returns beyond passive strategies by making informed predictions about expected returns, addressing the shortcomings of passive allocation [2][27]. Group 2: Issues with Passive Allocation - Determining expected returns using historical data can lead to "chasing performance," where investors favor assets that have recently performed well, skewing allocation models [5][9]. - The correlation between assets is not stable; for instance, the historical negative correlation between U.S. stocks and bonds has weakened since the 2008 financial crisis, impacting the effectiveness of diversification [6][9]. - The performance of passive allocation is heavily dependent on the underlying assets' returns and their correlations, which can be problematic in markets with limited asset classes [9][27]. Group 3: The Complexity of Active Allocation - Active allocation involves timing decisions, which many investors find challenging, leading to skepticism about its feasibility [17][19]. - While achieving a high accuracy rate in timing is difficult, even a modest success rate can significantly enhance investment returns when combined with sound risk management [18][19]. - The macroeconomic drivers influencing asset performance can change, necessitating continuous adjustments to research frameworks and strategies [21][27]. Group 4: Multi-Dimensional Decision Making - Effective asset allocation requires multiple low-correlation return streams to improve the probability of successful outcomes, as relying on a single asset is often insufficient [22][23]. - A structured decision-making framework that incorporates both strategic and tactical allocations can enhance the robustness of investment strategies [23][24]. - Strict risk budgeting is essential to ensure that asset allocations align with the overall risk tolerance of the portfolio, preventing forced liquidations during market fluctuations [24][25].