Becker Business Podcast – Episode Summary

Episode Title: Bill Ackman, Pershing Square Doubles Down on Amazon & Uber
Date: September 8, 2025
Host: Scott Becker

Brief Overview

In this episode, Scott Becker discusses recent strategic moves by famed investor Bill Ackman and his firm, Pershing Square, specifically their significantly increased positions in Amazon and Uber. Becker reflects on what these decisions indicate about the future of these companies and shares his personal investment philosophy in relation to following top investors' moves.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Bill Ackman’s Strategic Bets

• Pershing Square, Bill Ackman’s investment firm, has "doubled down" on Amazon and Uber—meaning they've notably increased their holdings in these companies.
  • Amazon: Now accounts for 9% of Pershing Square’s portfolio.
  • Uber: Makes up 21% of Ackman’s portfolio, a particularly bold commitment.

2. Scott Becker’s Personal Investment Perspective

• Becker outlines his approach: he prefers broad index funds for most of his investing but is "always fascinated" by what world-class investors are doing.
• Direct quote:
  • “Of course I'm always far better off just buying index funds, but I love seeing what the best investors are doing and always putting a small portion of my investments behind what they're doing.” (01:00)
• Becker is personally invested in Amazon but has not invested in Uber, despite Ackman’s large stake.

3. Uber’s Future and Automated Driving

• The host speculates that the true long-term play with Uber isn’t just its current ride-hailing model, but its potential in self-driving technology.
• Point made about automation: while benefit to companies is clear (removing driver labor costs), it's “negative for a lot of people because it’s one of the entry level ways people get into the economy.” (02:04)
• Becker weighs both the upside for investors and the societal implications if Uber and similar companies move toward autonomous vehicles.

4. Learning from Investing Giants

• Becker underscores the value of observing leading investors not just to copy them, but to learn from their clarity and strategy.
• Notable quote:
  • “I do find so interesting to watch some of these investors that really have clarity, have been so successful and see if there's things that we could learn from what they're doing.” (02:50)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Index Funds vs. Investment Icons:
  • “Of course I'm always far better off just buying index funds, but I love seeing what the best investors are doing and always putting a small portion of my investments behind what they're doing.” (01:00)
• On Uber’s Autonomous Ambition:
  • “I think the real plan Uber in a lot of these companies is not their current business but it's that moving into that self driving business... Positive for these companies as you get rid of labor cost... Negative for a lot of people because it’s one of the entry level ways people get into the economy.” (01:43-02:13)
• On Learning from Investing Leaders:
  • “I do find so interesting to watch some of these investors that really have clarity, have been so successful and see if there's things that we could learn from what they're doing.” (02:50)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:31: Episode begins, focus on Ackman’s positions in Amazon and Uber.
• 00:50: Becker discusses his approach to mimicking top investors.
• 01:43: Breakdown of Uber’s future prospects—especially in autonomous driving.
• 02:50: Reflections on the value of learning from legendary investors.

Tone & Language Note

Scott Becker’s tone throughout is conversational, self-deprecating, and enthusiastic about learning from top-tier investors. He maintains a focus on practical takeaways for listeners without making direct investment recommendations.

Conclusion

This episode offers a concise yet insightful analysis of Bill Ackman’s latest portfolio moves, touching on the broader implications for both investors and the workforce. Scott Becker’s candid reflections provide accessible context for listeners interested in following the strategies of legendary investors and thinking about the future of major tech-driven companies like Amazon and Uber.