About this episode

David Marra discusses the importance of downside protection in portfolio construction amidst today's volatile markets.

In this episode of The Smarter Planner Podcast, host Belle Osvath, CFP®, welcomes David Marra, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Markin Asset Management, a firm focused on combining quantitative and fundamental research to help investors navigate changing market conditions and manage downside risk. With decades of experience in investment research and portfolio construction, David breaks down what downside protection really means and why it has become increasingly important in today's faster-moving, more volatile markets. While many portfolios are built for growth, David explains how advisors can better evaluate risk, manage drawdowns, and build strategies that protect capital without giving up long-term opportunity. David also discusses how global forces—like geopolitical conflict, supply chain disruptions, and rising interest rates—are contributing to increased market volatility, and why advisors need to adapt their investment approach accordingly. He emphasizes that effective portfolio construction is not just about avoiding losses, but about managing downside risk while still positioning clients for long-term growth. Guest Links Website: https://markinfunds.com…

More episodes of Smarter Planner Podcast

• Why Financial Advisors Can't Ignore Content Creation Anymore - David Keller,CMT [Founder] · April 29, 2026 · 28 min
• Beyond Buy and Hold: Using 1031 Exchanges in Financial Planning - Rich Arzaga, CFP®, CCIM [Founder] · April 1, 2026 · 25 min
• The Succession Trap: What Advisors Get Wrong About Exiting Their Practice · March 25, 2026 · 20 min
• From AUM to Everything: The New Model Winning Clients - Erik Brenner,CFP® [Founder] · March 18, 2026 · 21 min
• CE Credit Episode: Manager Skill, ESG Data, and the Decisions That Drive Long-Term Returns · March 4, 2026 · 51 min
• Engaging the Next Generation Through Today's Housing Market - Leo Anzoleaga [Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist] · February 18, 2026 · 25 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Smarter Planner Podcast podcast page.