Liquidity as a Strategic Asset in Changing Markets

Liquidity as a Strategic Asset in Changing Markets

From Faster Forward by Northern Trust

April 29, 2026 · 22 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the evolving role of liquidity as a strategic asset in the context of changing market conditions.

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…

People in this episode

Host: Paul Fahey

Guests: Faisal Ansari, Andrew Sepiol

Topics covered

  • liquidity strategies
  • market volatility
  • private markets
  • cash management
  • investment strategies

Keywords

  • liquidity
  • cash
  • investment
  • market conditions
  • forecasting
  • diversification
  • data-driven decision making

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Northern Trust, Liquidity Solutions, CFA

More episodes of Faster Forward

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Faster Forward podcast page.