Is the allure of AI stocks overshadowing the perilous reality of small-cap struggles? Join us in this episode as we dissect the intricate landscape of the current stock market with Peter Berezin from BCA Research. We promise an in-depth analysis of the bifurcated performance between thriving large-cap AI-driven stocks and the underperforming small-cap sector. Learn how key economic factors like the ongoing slowdown, diminishing job openings, and the depletion of pandemic savings are contributing to this divergence. Discover Peter's insights on the prolonged and variable impacts of monetary policy and how the erosion of prior economic insulation is shaping market dynamics. We'll delve into the predictive power of construction job losses and the decline in multi-family housing starts as early indicators of a potential recession. This episode shines a light on how smaller companies, reliant on bank financing and cyclical businesses, face unique challenges that could amplify their struggles in a looming recession. Plus, we critically examine the potential overvaluation of large language models and AI profitability, and whether they can replicate the success of social networks.We also tackle broader market concerns and sector strategies, drawing parallels between the UK's fiscal turmoil and the current risks facing the US economy. With a 7% budget deficit and low unemployment, we scrutinize the viability of the US dollar during a recession. Can China's economic recovery or a global manufacturing resurgence mitigate these risks? Peter shares thought-provoking perspectives on fiscal policy in an election year, including potential tax hikes and tariffs. Finally, find out where you can follow Peter's work and insights, and explore the long-standing reputation of BCA Research.The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Support the Show.