Core Insights - The discussion centers around investment strategies for 2026, highlighting the importance of cautious approaches in uncertain economic times [4][14]. - Two key investment picks are presented: Cohen & Steers Closed End Opportunity Fund (FOF) by Steven Bavaria and Blue Owl Capital (OWL) by Samuel Smith, both emphasizing income generation and stability [37][57]. Investment Strategies - Steven Bavaria advocates for the "Income Factory" strategy, which focuses on generating income through high cash yields rather than relying on capital gains [19][21]. - Bavaria's pick, FOF, is a closed-end fund that holds over 100 other funds, providing diversification and a stable income stream with a current yield around 7.7% [37][42]. - Samuel Smith emphasizes portfolio diversification, targeting high-quality companies with strong balance sheets and defensive business models, while also exploring cyclical opportunities [52][53]. Company Analysis - FOF has demonstrated a total return record of over 10% annually, with a market price return of 13.3% and a net asset value (NAV) increase of 20% over the past year, indicating it is undervalued [39][40]. - Blue Owl Capital manages over $295 billion in assets, with 75% in permanent capital, providing a stable fee stream and allowing for long-term investment strategies [59][61]. - OWL's current yield is approximately 6.2%, with projected distributable earnings per share growth of 15.7% CAGR through the end of the decade, suggesting strong potential for total returns [75][76]. Market Context - The economic environment is characterized by declining consumer confidence and geopolitical tensions, which may impact investment strategies and market performance [5][6][51]. - Concerns about private credit and potential economic downturns are noted, but both FOF and OWL are positioned to weather such challenges due to their diversified and defensive investment approaches [80][84]. Valuation Insights - OWL is trading at a valuation of about 17 times forward earnings, significantly lower than peers like Blackstone and Brookfield, which trade at much higher multiples despite similar growth expectations [105][106]. - The valuation disconnect suggests that OWL offers a compelling combination of yield, growth, and value compared to its competitors [109].

Like most of our members, I am a "refugee" from more traditional investment strategies. When I introduced the Income Factory® ten years ago I was labeled a heretic. Now, thousands of followers and Inside the Income Factory members say they sleep better at night, "create their own growth" and are no longer fixated on short-term price movements.Steven Bavaria has 50 years of international banking and credit, journalism, and investing experience. A graduate of Georgetown University and New England School of La ...