Becker Business Podcast

Host: Scott Becker
Episode: Tesla, Astera Labs, & KKR 9-25-25
Date: September 25, 2025

Episode Overview

In this succinct episode, Scott Becker reviews recent business news and stock developments concerning Astera Labs, Tesla, and private equity giant KKR. He offers personal insights, especially on Astera Labs, discusses broader investment philosophies, and comments on current market trends affecting these companies.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Astera Labs: Share Price Drop & Industry Dynamics

• Personal Stake: Scott openly declares a personal investment in Astera Labs, highlighting transparency in his commentary.

• Stock Performance:

  • Astera Labs experienced a significant decline, falling nearly 11% yesterday and "points down again today" (00:25).
  • The drop is attributed to concerns over "Nvidia and Intel...have a close relationship."

• Industry Developments:

  • Intel is "taking investments from the US," as well as Nvidia and possibly Apple.
  • This competitive advantage leaves “some of the other companies feeling a little bit on the outs” (00:40).

  Notable Quote:

  • “I directly own positions in Astera Labs and of course because I directly own positions in it...it is getting crushed.” — Scott Becker [00:12]
  • “I largely invest in index funds because I can’t predict what individual stocks are doing. Clearly I should be sticking to that strategy. It’s falling today and this week...” — Scott Becker [00:28]

2. Tesla: Resurgence in Stock Performance

• Recent Gains:

  • Tesla finished up 4% yesterday. Year-to-date, the stock is “up 10%”—an “amazing resurgence.”

• Tone: Scott’s language shifts here, using “funnily” to highlight the market’s unpredictability.

  Notable Quote:

  • “Tesla finished up 4% yesterday. It’s now up 10% year to date. It’s amazing resurgence that they’ve had. Funnily.” — Scott Becker [00:53]

3. KKR: Private Equity Under Pressure

• Stock Decline:

  • KKR, a major private equity firm, saw a nearly 5% drop yesterday and continues to “struggle.”

• Market Context:

  • The private equity business is “looking for rate cuts to stimulate the deal environment. That is still not happening.”

  Notable Quote:

  • “KKR fell nearly 5% yesterday, continues to struggle. The PE business, as much as any business is looking for rate cuts to stimulate the deal environment. That is still not happening as of yet.” — Scott Becker [01:14]

Memorable Moments

• Personal Admission:
  • Scott candidly acknowledges the pitfalls of picking individual stocks, reinforcing his preference for index funds. His self-deprecating humor highlights both the unpredictability and humility required in investing.
• Market Observations:
  • The commentary on Intel, Nvidia, and Apple relationships signals larger industry shifts that could alter competitive landscapes in tech and semiconductors.
• Macro Outlook:
  • Reiterates the significant influence of interest rates and monetary policy on private equity deal activity.

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:12 — Scott’s personal involvement and Astera Labs’ stock performance
• 00:28 — Investment philosophy: index funds versus individual stocks
• 00:40 — Industry updates: Nvidia, Intel, Apple, and shifting alliances
• 00:53 — Tesla’s stock resurgence
• 01:14 — KKR’s struggles and rate cut hopes

Summary

Scott Becker’s brief update delivers candid, personal observations on recent fluctuations for Astera Labs, Tesla, and KKR in the stock market, with valuable context on broader industry shifts and market conditions. His remarks offer both a snapshot of current events and timeless investing lessons about the unpredictability of individual stocks and the ongoing impact of macroeconomic factors.