050 – Samir Varma - When Academic Finance Theory Fails
From The Algorithmic Advantage by The Algorithmic Advantage
April 6, 2026 · 1h 8m · Season 1 · Episode 50
About this episode
In this episode, Samir Varma discusses the limitations of academic finance theory and explores various topics including quantum physics and AI.
Where Real Edge in Quant Trading Actually Comes From Do not watch this podcast. This is Part 1 with Samir Varma, and in Part 2 we go into great detail about his quantitative trading. In the Collective, he gives our members some specific instructions on how to measure risk differently – this stuff isn’t fluff. But in Part 1, I got derailed into quantum physics, determinism, AI, Asimov’s three laws of robotics and more. One of my favourite shows – but the first show I’ve done that isn’t about trading! It’s the warm-up you need to make the most of Part 2 though, and if I didn’t publish it, I’d be depriving a great many of you who will no doubt find this stuff as fascinating as myself! Still, if you only have time for strict ‘trading content’, fair warning, skip this. Let me know your thoughts…
People in this episode
Host: The Algorithmic Advantage
Guest: Samir Varma
Topics covered
- quantitative trading
- risk measurement
- quantum physics
- AI
- determinism
- trading theory
Keywords
- quant trading
- risk measurement
- quantitative finance
- AI
- trading theory
- Asimov
- determinism
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Asimov’s three laws of robotics
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