NYALT Episode 105

Damodaran on AI

In this landmark episode, NY-ALT sits down with legendary valuation expert Aswath Damodaran and industry leaders to dissect the seismic impact of artificial intelligence on finance careers. From Wall Street’s shifting calculus to the new rules for remaining relevant, discover strategies that matter now. Draw actionable inspiration from decades of financial teaching, hands-on investment practice, and provocative debate. For finance professionals, this conversation delivers unmatched clarity and practical insight.

Join NYAIR’s latest episode for unfiltered perspectives on the future of financial analysis, active investing, and how AI is rewriting the rules. Listen now and stay ahead.

Featured Guests

Aswath Damodaran

Kerschner Family Chair in Finance Education, Professor of Finance, NYU Stern School of Business

A pioneer in valuation and corporate finance education, Aswath Damodaran has shaped the thinking of thousands of finance professionals through nearly four decades at NYU. His globally recognized work spans academic publications, best-selling books, and widely followed blogs and YouTube lectures. Known for popularizing rigorous but accessible valuation frameworks, he remains a sought-after commentator on market trends and strategic decision-making.

Key Insights From This Episode

The Consistency Formula

Long-term value in finance comes from bridging technical rigor with perspective—teach valuation as both numbers and storytelling, not just mechanical process.

AI’s Real Impact: Beyond the Hype

AI is accelerating the transition from mechanical, rule-based finance careers to more subjective, creative, and relationship-driven roles. The professions most exposed are those that rely on procedures, not judgment.

Storytelling as a Strategic Edge

To remain irreplaceable, finance professionals must build narratives around their valuations. "A good valuation is always a bridge between stories and numbers," turning subjectivity into advantage.

The Specialist Trap

Becoming narrowly specialized is no longer the safest path. AI can outpace any human at rote expertise—generalists, creative thinkers, and connectors gain new currency.

Reasoning Over Lookup

With answers a click away, critical reasoning muscles can atrophy. The next generation of value leaders need disciplined thought, not quick Google results, to navigate future risks and opportunities.

Relationship Capital Matters Most

Trust and personalized relationships—especially in areas like wealth management and private equity—become the new moat as AI permeates analysis and reporting.

Access the Full Conversation & Download the Insights Deck

Dive deeper into the episode for actionable frameworks, personal stories, and concrete strategies to future-proof finance careers. Download the full insights deck and equip teams with the tools to navigate AI disruption—not just survive, but thrive.

Soundbites Worth Saving

"A good valuation is never just numbers in a spreadsheet—it’s a bridge between stories and numbers.”
— Aswath Damodaran


“If what you do is mechanical or rule-based, a machine can do it better. The advantage is in what remains subjective and creative.” 
— Aswath Damodaran


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NY-ALT is the premier hub for curious financiers, leaders, and innovators who believe in blending rigor, creativity, and insight to advance the industry. Join a global network that prizes learning, strategic thinking, and actionable value creation. Become a member and position yourself at the forefront of finance’s next evolution—where wisdom, connection, and progress meet.

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