Podcasts about portfolio companies

In this episode, Alex Immerman, partner at Andreessen Horowitz, joins CJ to discuss the CFO role and how it's changing in the era of AI. He explains what the components of a company's AI agenda the CFO should own, how and where it should be leveraged in an organization, and why, if you're preparing to go public, AI needs to be mentioned in your S-1. He breaks down how the financial landscape differs greatly between AI-native SaaS companies and traditional B2B SaaS companies in terms of retention curves and gross margins, and how this relates to the ever-important LTV to CAC metric. As someone who has worked with prominent CFOs and interviewed many for a16z's portfolio companies, Alex also describes the qualities of a great CFO, and shares his favorite interview question, before discussing CFOs, CEO, and board dynamics.—LINKS:Alex Immerman on X (@aleximm): https://x.com/aleximmAlex Immerman on a16z: https://a16z.com/author/alex-immermanAlex Immerman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/immermanAndreessen Horowitz: https://a16z.comCJ on X (@cjgustafson222): https://x.com/cjgustafson222Mostly metrics: http://mostlymetrics.comRELATED EPISODES:So You're Looking for a “Strategic” CFO? Bloomerang's Steve Isom on What That Really Means: —TIMESTAMPS:(00:00) Preview and Intro(02:19) Sponsor – Navan | NetSuite | Planful(05:52) What Separates Good CFOs From Great Ones(11:56) Questions Alex Asks When Interviewing CFOs for Portfolio Companies(15:17) How CFOs Should Engage With Investors During the Hiring Process(17:22) Sponsor – Tabs | Rippling Spend | Pulley(22:22) What a Great CFO-Investor Relationship Looks Like(24:46) The CFO-CEO-Board Dynamic(28:27) How the Role of a CFO Is Changing in the Era of AI(31:41) AI-Native Company Versus Incumbent for Finance Category Leader(33:49) Components of a Company's AI Agenda That the CFO Should Own(38:39) Why the LTV to CAC Metric Is So Important to Investors(41:13) LTV to CAC by Sector(42:41) The Importance of Gross Margin Adjusting Your CAC Payback(43:21 Retention and Churn Patterns in AI-Native Companies(45:23) Gross Margin in AI-Native Companies Versus Traditional B2B SaaS(50:11) What It Takes To Be a Public Company-Ready CFO Today(53:58) How IPO Expectations for the CFO Have Shifted in the Past Few Years(55:05) Wrap—SPONSORS:Navan is the all-in-one travel and expense solution that helps finance teams streamline reconciliation, enforce policies automatically, and gain real-time visibility. It connects to your existing cards and makes closing the books faster and smarter. Visit navan.com/Runthenumbers for your demo.NetSuite is an AI-powered business management suite, encompassing ERP/Financials, CRM, and ecommerce for more than 41,000 customers. If you're looking for an ERP, head to https://netsuite.com/metrics and get the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning.Planful's financial planning software can transform your FP&A function. Built for speed, accuracy, and confidence, you'll be planning your way to success and have time left over to actually put it to work. Find out more at www.planful.com/metrics.Tabs is a platform that brings all of your revenue-facing data and workflows - billing, AR, payments, rev rec, and reporting - onto a single system so you can automate and be more flexible. Find out more at: tabs.inc/metrics.Rippling Spend is a spend management software that gives you complete visibility and automated policy controls across every type of spend, saving you time and money. Get a demo to see how much time your org would save at rippling.com/metrics.Pulley is the cap table management platform built for CFOs and finance leaders who need reliable, audit-ready data and intuitive workflows, without the hidden fees or unreliable support. Switch in as little as 5 days and get 25% off your first year: pulley.com/mostlymetrics.#AINativeSaaS #a16z #CFO #LTVtoCAC #AIinSaaS Get full access to Mostly metrics at www.mostlymetrics.com/subscribe

Chuck Templeton is an ex-operator, including founding OpenTable and serving as lead investor and operating Chairman in companies such as Grubhub and Venmo (Braintree Payment Systems). He is focused on helping the S2G team, entrepreneurs, and executives take their ideas, validate them, institutionalize processes, and ultimately scale their business innovations to address today's urgent environmental and societal problems.S2G is a multi-stage investment firm with $2.5B under management and 100+ portfolio companies. They focus on venture and growth-stage businesses across food and agriculture, oceans, and energy. With a commitment to creating long-term, measurable outcomes, S2G structures flexible capital solutions that can range from venture funding through growth equity to debt and infrastructure financing.–Here are 6 topics we covered in the podcast:1. S2G's Investment PhilosophyChuck Templeton debunks the myth that impact means weak returns—S2G invests where sustainability and strong financials align. Their focus spans food, ag, energy, and oceans, which together drive 90% of global emissions.2. Why Food & Ag Is UndervaluedFood systems cause one-third of emissions but get just ~4% of climate capital. Chuck sees massive upside in climate-friendly, great-tasting, and healthier food products.3. How S2G Operates DifferentlyThey invest $20M–$50M per deal, with dedicated teams per sector and an in-house acceleration platform that supports hiring, growth, and commercialization. Their capital stack includes both equity and flexible credit options.4. What Founders MissToo many founders obsess over tech and forget commercialization. S2G backs companies with $10M+ revenue, clear product-market fit, and capital discipline.5. Flashfood & Sunday: Climate by StealthFlashfood cuts grocery waste while saving consumers money; Sunday makes lawn care safer and easier for families. In both cases, climate benefits are real—but come after convenience, cost, and safety.6. Chuck's Personal FuelInspired by fatherhood and minimalism, Chuck shifted to climate after OpenTable and Venmo. Running, stoicism, and a love for leadership learning keep him grounded—plus, he's big on “raising your hand” to lead.--

What does it take to carve a space in the entrepreneurial world when you begin feeling like an outsider? Pocket Sun, co-founder of SoGal Ventures, shares her transformative journey from setting up a community for female entrepreneurs to becoming a major player in the venture capital space. In a world where women are often underrepresented and underfunded, Pocket's journey has been anything but conventional, pushing boundaries to ensure women-led companies get the support they deserve.Pocket Sun is a trailblazing entrepreneur and venture capitalist whose work focuses on investing in underrepresented groups to solve often ignored problems. Starting with her first investment via AngelList back in 2015, Pocket has expanded her reach to over 150 companies worldwide, many led by women, across multiple continents. Her ability to foresee potential in underserved market segments and her relentless pursuit of impactful investments has made SoGal Ventures a pivotal force in the startup ecosystem.In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Pocket Sun opens up about her unconventional beginnings, her commitment to diversity, and her mission to invest in category-defining companies. She shares insights on building a global community, navigating cross-border investments, and leading SoGal Ventures to become a brand that signifies innovation and social impact. Whether you're an investor or entrepreneur, or just interested in the dynamics of creating change, this episode is rich with valuable insights and stories that reflect on the power of diversity and the potential for change in the venture capital landscape. To get the latest from Pocket Sun, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/pocketsun/ https://www.sogalventures.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

Was steckt hinter der aggressiven M&A-Strategie und wie tickt die nächste CFO-Generation? Das große FINANCE-TV-Sonderinterview mit dem amtierenden CFO des Jahres, Ralf Thomas von Siemens.Siemens arbeitet intensiv weiter an der Transformation seines Unternehmensportfolios in Richtung Software und Tech. Die bis dato größte Akquisition in diesem Bereich Altair (Kaufpreis: 10 Milliarden US-Dollar) wurde Ende März abgeschlossen, nun greift Siemens für 5,1 Milliarden Dollar nach Dotmatics, einem US-Anbieter für Forschungs- und Entwicklungssoftware im Gesundheitssektor. Zur Refinanzierung beider Transaktionen verringert Siemens seine Beteiligungen an Siemens Energy sowie Siemens Healthineers und verkleinert über Exits seine Gruppe an „Portfolio Companies“. Im Oktober vergangenen Jahres spülte der Verkauf von Innomotics 3,5 Milliarden Euro in die Kasse. „Wir haben wie ein Private-Equity-Investor gearbeitet und den Wert unserer sogenannten Portfolio Companies, die wir nicht mehr zu unserem Kerngeschäft zählen, in nur wenigen Jahren verfünffacht“, berichtet Siemens-CFO Ralf Thomas in einer Sonderausgabe von FINANCE-TV. Der nächste Meilenstein beim Portfoliomanagement könnte die Reduzierung der Beteiligung an Siemens Healthineers von aktuell über 70 auf nur noch 50 Prozent sein. Die Entscheidung, ob es dazu kommt, will Siemens im Dezember verkünden. „Wir müssen gegenüber unseren Aktionären – und auch denen von Healthineers – begründen können, dass wir wirklich der beste Eigentümer sind. Genau das prüfen wir gerade. Und im Dezember, wenn wir unsere Entscheidung zu Healthineers kommunizieren werden, wird jeder rationale Investor sie verstehen können“, blickt Thomas voraus – und ergänzt: „Die Frage nach der Ausrichtung unseres Portfolios liegt grundsätzlich permanent auf dem Tisch.“Warum er in seinen inzwischen fast zwölf Jahren als CFO das Konzernportfolio derart tiefgreifend umgebaut hat, weshalb er die großen Akquisitionen so wenig fremdfinanziert, und mit welchen Methoden Siemens strategisch wichtige Targets aus der Software-Industrie bewertet, deren aktuelle Cashflows den aufgerufenen Kaufpreis alleine bei weitem nicht rechtfertigen würden – das ausführliche Interview mit Ralf Thomas und vielen Einblicken in das strategische Denken des Dax-Konzerns gibt es bei FINANCE-TV.

Send Everyday AI and Jordan a text messageStartups are changing quickly. That means Venture Capital is changing just as fast.

On this episode, Kortney Harmon dives into the transformative journey of Aaron Opalewski, CEO and founder of Spark Companies. We explore how Aaron, with his dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, has redefined the business model of his staffing and recruiting company, achieving impressive growth while remaining committed to creating opportunities for others. We discuss the strategic shift to a centralized model, the art of maintaining client relationships in a digital age, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines Spark Companies. Whether you're facing challenges or riding the wave of success, this episode offers insights into navigating the evolving landscape of the talent industry. Tune in for a conversation filled with valuable lessons and forward-thinking strategies, as Aaron shares his unique approach to leadership and business innovation.________________Follow Aaron on LinkedIn: LinkedIn | Aaron OpalewskiWant to learn more about Crelate? Book a demo hereFollow Crelate on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crelate/Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.crelate.com/blog/full-desk-experience

Welcome back to The Private Equity Podcast, by Raw Selection! Today's guest is Jon Sonnenschein, Private Equity Operating Partner and former SaaS and software CEO. Jon shares insights on driving cultural change in portfolio companies, blending his experience as a CEO and Operating Partner.Breakdown:[00:00] Jon Sonnenschein discusses his experience as a Private Equity Operating Partner and former SaaS CEO, focusing on cultural transformation in portfolio companies.[00:30] From Chicago to Silicon Valley, with 20 years in startups, followed by joining private equity and leading growth at Earth Solutions.[00:59] The "star player bias" in talent acquisition and the importance of aligning cultural dynamics.[01:28] Addressing the balance between legacy culture and private equity-driven professionalization.[03:21] Transitioning from founder-led to private equity-backed and retaining core cultural elements while driving professionalization and growth.[05:18] Jon shares how he elevated long-term employees for cultural continuity while introducing professional FP&A expertise.[06:15] Jon explains his approach to understanding a company's culture by interviewing employees at all levels.[07:44] The role of listening and valuing employee perspectives in identifying growth opportunities.[09:11] Validating feedback through patterns, experiments, and data-driven approaches.[10:57] Testing new markets through structured, accountable experiments to assess viability.[11:56] Jon's methods for influencing cultural change without alienating long-term employees.[13:20] Professionalizing the product organization and using customer feedback to guide decisions.[15:17] Transparency, one-on-ones, and open forums to drive cultural change and employee engagement.[18:11] Creating psychological safety and fostering innovation through direct communication.[19:38] Jon reflects on insights from being an operating partner and how they inform his executive approach.[21:06] The importance of collaboration between operating partners, deal teams, and CEOs.[22:28] Recommended readings include Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman and The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz.[24:48] Jon emphasizes the importance of tackling culture head-on and shares key takeaways for private equity professionals.To be added to the book waitlist, you can email alex.offer@raw-selection.comThank you for tuning in! Connect with Jon on LinkedIn here. To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com

How do you turn a $5 million bet into a $15 billion win? That's the kind of wild story we're talking about here—think high-stakes deal making, seismic tech breakthroughs, and the evolution of oil and gas from gut-instinct exploration to data-driven science. From a humble start in Wichita to shaping industry giants like 3TEC and Petrohawk, this conversation is packed with insider tales of risks, rewards, and the moments that defined a career at the cutting edge of energy.Digital Wildcatters brings the energy community together through events, cutting-edge content, and powerful tools. Join our online community at collide.io. Engage with experts, level up your career, and ask Collide AI your toughest technical questions.Click here to watch a video of this episode. 0:00 Introduction & Poker Banter2:14 Getting Started in the Oil Business (1970s)5:25 Building & Selling 3-Tech9:06 Early Off-Market Acquisitions & Strategies13:42 3D Seismic & Technological Advancements19:08 Founding Petrohawk & the Shale Revolution24:55 The Haynesville Land Rush32:12 The Parallel Eagle Ford Play39:50 BHP Billiton's $15 Billion Acquisition45:46 Post-Sale Observations & Management Philosophy51:07 Pivoting to Private Equity (Pine Brook)59:08 Working with Portfolio Companies & Challenges1:02:40 The Future of Shale & International Expansion1:07:14 Enhanced Recovery & Shale Re-Fracs1:09:10 Potential New Basins & Final Thoughtshttps://www.instagram.com/digitalwildcattershttps://www.tiktok.com/@digitalwildcattershttps://www.facebook.com/digitalwildcattershttps://twitter.com/DWildcatters

In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the complexities of time and resource allocation for private equity portfolio managers.

In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the complexities of time and resource allocation for private equity portfolio managers.

The Keeping it Real Assets podcast continues! Join us for our new mini-series as we explore the themes of Innovation in Infrastructure with real-life, implemented examples from across Igneo's Portfolio Companies. We are delighted that Simon Montague from the GIAA is hosting this series. In this the second episode in our Innovation in Infrastructure Series, Simon is joined by Mike Maudsley, CEO of enfinium. As one of the UK's leading energy from waste operators, enfinium is supporting the UK's journey to a Net Zero economy. enfinium is operating and developing six decarbonisation hubs around the UK and is using waste that would otherwise go to landfill to generate homegrown energy.  Simon and Mike explore the highly innovative, highly debated and highly complex opportunity for the energy transition that could be made possible using Carbon Capture and Storage technology. If you truly want to understand this debate-this is the podcast episode to listen to!**********************Important informationThis material is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute investment or financial advice and does not take into account any specific investment objectives, financial situation or needs. This is not an offer to provide asset management services, is not a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any security or to execute any agreement for portfolio management or investment advisory services and this material has not been prepared in connection with any such offer. Before making any investment decision you should consider, with the assistance of a financial advisor, your individual investment needs, objectives and financial situation.We have taken reasonable care to ensure that this material is accurate, current, and complete and fit for its intended purpose and audience as at the date of publication. No assurance is given or liability accepted regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of this material and we do not undertake to update it in future if circumstances change.To the extent this material contains any expression of opinion or forward-looking statements, such opinions and statements are based on assumptions, matters and sources believed to be true and reliable at the time of publication only. This material reflects the views of the individual writers only. Those views may change, may not prove to be valid and may not reflect the views of everyone at Igneo Infrastructure Partners or First Sentier Investors.About First Sentier InvestorsReferences to ‘we', ‘us' or ‘our' are references to Igneo Infrastructure Partners or First Sentier Investors (as applicable). First Sentier Investors is a global asset management business which is ultimately owned by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group. Igneo Infrastructure Partners is an unlisted infrastructure asset management business and is part of the First Sentier Investors Group.We communicate and conduct business through different legal entities in different locations. This material is communicated in:[1]Australia and New Zealand by First Sentier Investors (Australia) RE Ltd, authorised and regulated in Australia by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (AFSL 240550; ABN 13 006 464 428) European Economic Area by First Sentier Investors (Ireland) Limited, authorised and regulated in Ireland by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI reg no. C182306; reg office 70 Sir John Rogerson's Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland; reg company no. 629188)Hong Kong by First Sentier Investors (Hong Kong) Limited and has not been reviewed by the Securities & Futures Commission in Hong Kong. First Sentier Investors and Igneo Infrastructure Partners are business names of First Sentier Investors (Hong Kong) Limited. Singapore by First Sentier Investors (Singapore) (reg company no. 196900420D) and this advertisement or material has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. First Sentier Investors (registration number 53236800B) and Igneo Infrastructure Partners (registration number 53447928J) are business divisions of First Sentier Investors (Singapore).Japan by First Sentier Investors (Japan) Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Service Agency (Director of Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Registered Financial Institutions) No.2611)United Kingdom by First Sentier Investors International IM Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (reg. no. SC079063, reg office 23 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH2 1BB)United States by First Sentier Investors (US) LLC, authorised and regulated by the Securities Exchange Commission (RIA 801-93167)other jurisdictions, where this document may lawfully be issued, by First Sentier Investors International IM Limited, authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ref no. 122512; Registered office: 23 St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 1BB; Company no. SC079063).To the extent permitted by law, MUFG and its subsidiaries are not liable for any loss or damage as a result of reliance on any statement or information contained in this document. Neither MUFG nor any of its subsidiaries guarantee the performance of any investment products referred to in this document or the repayment of capital. Any investments referred to are not deposits or other liabilities of MUFG or its subsidiaries, and are subject to investment risk, including loss of income and capital invested.©    Igneo Infrastructure Partners

Highlights from this week's conversation include:Grady Becoming a Limited Partner (0:52)Networking and Mentorship (3:14)Understanding LP Dynamics (5:29)Job Satisfaction Among LPs (9:03)Understanding Corporate Innovation Needs (13:57)Connecting Startups with Limited Partners (15:22)Value Addition in Fund Manager Selection (18:30)Local Corporate LPs vs. State Money (20:22)Outside-In Investment Approach (22:51)Insider Segment: Implementing AI in VC and Portfolio Companies (24:14)The Importance of Data and Culture (28:35)Misuse of AI Terminology (30:54)AI Playbook for Executives (32:59)Key Qualities for GPs (34:51)The Role of Co-Investment (37:04)Avoiding Shiny Objects (38:58)Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Allocators (40:38)Grady Buchanan is an institutional and risk-based asset allocation professional. His focuses include venture capital fund investments as well connecting startup ecosystems across the globe. NVNG is focused on establishing stronger venture capital presences in regions throughout the US - managing a venture capital fund of funds tailored to meet the needs of local corporations and institutional limited partners. As a Founding Partner, Grady is responsible for the fund of funds portfolio, venture capital fund sourcing and diligence, and for investment allocation decisions.Grady is also the founder and CEO of OmniValley, an online social community exclusively for those looking to establish the right connections within entrepreneurial ecosystems. He's built a strong and growing platform housing institutional investors, venture capital firms, accelerators, and individuals in efforts to connect under-ventured communities to sophisticated, strategic, and engaged investors, sponsors, and mentors.Bottega8 offers secure and cost-efficient AI Model Training and Fine-Tuning tailored for financial institutions. If you're concerned about the expense and complexity of building in-house AI teams, or worried about the privacy and security risks inherent in Big Tech AI APIs, we provide the ideal solution for your proprietary data.Bottega8's solution is specifically designed for institutional financial clients, including PE/VC funds, hedge funds, broker-dealers, traders, investment banks, and fintechs. By partnering with us, you eliminate the need for expensive AI engineers, hefty API fees, and complex technical roadmaps—reducing your AI development costs by up to 85%. If you're seeking AI Model Training and Fine-Tuning services that prioritize security and cost-efficiency without sacrificing Big Tech fidelity, we'd love to talk to you. http://www.bottega8.com. Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

Keeping it Real Assets is back! Join us for our new mini-series as we explore the themes of Innovation in Infrastructure with real-life, implemented examples from across Igneo's Portfolio Companies. We are delighted that Simon Montague from the GIAA is hosting this series.  In this first episode Simon is joined by Jan Doude van Troostwijk, Group Technical Manager at Evos. Evos is a leading European bulk liquid storage terminals business challenging itself on a daily basis to improve operational efficiencies and to better facilitate the energy transition. Simon and Jan explore examples of technical applications, automation and cultural change, and the role these together play in driving innovation and creating long-term sustainable value across the business. **********************Important informationThis material is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute investment or financial advice and does not take into account any specific investment objectives, financial situation or needs. This is not an offer to provide asset management services, is not a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any security or to execute any agreement for portfolio management or investment advisory services and this material has not been prepared in connection with any such offer. Before making any investment decision you should consider, with the assistance of a financial advisor, your individual investment needs, objectives and financial situation.We have taken reasonable care to ensure that this material is accurate, current, and complete and fit for its intended purpose and audience as at the date of publication. No assurance is given or liability accepted regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of this material and we do not undertake to update it in future if circumstances change.To the extent this material contains any expression of opinion or forward-looking statements, such opinions and statements are based on assumptions, matters and sources believed to be true and reliable at the time of publication only. This material reflects the views of the individual writers only. Those views may change, may not prove to be valid and may not reflect the views of everyone at Igneo Infrastructure Partners or First Sentier Investors.About First Sentier InvestorsReferences to ‘we', ‘us' or ‘our' are references to Igneo Infrastructure Partners or First Sentier Investors (as applicable). First Sentier Investors is a global asset management business which is ultimately owned by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group. Igneo Infrastructure Partners is an unlisted infrastructure asset management business and is part of the First Sentier Investors Group.We communicate and conduct business through different legal entities in different locations. This material is communicated in:[1]Australia and New Zealand by First Sentier Investors (Australia) RE Ltd, authorised and regulated in Australia by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (AFSL 240550; ABN 13 006 464 428) European Economic Area by First Sentier Investors (Ireland) Limited, authorised and regulated in Ireland by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI reg no. C182306; reg office 70 Sir John Rogerson's Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland; reg company no. 629188)Hong Kong by First Sentier Investors (Hong Kong) Limited and has not been reviewed by the Securities & Futures Commission in Hong Kong. First Sentier Investors and Igneo Infrastructure Partners are business names of First Sentier Investors (Hong Kong) Limited. Singapore by First Sentier Investors (Singapore) (reg company no. 196900420D) and this advertisement or material has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. First Sentier Investors (registration number 53236800B) and Igneo Infrastructure Partners (registration number 53447928J) are business divisions of First Sentier Investors (Singapore).Japan by First Sentier Investors (Japan) Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Service Agency (Director of Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Registered Financial Institutions) No.2611)United Kingdom by First Sentier Investors International IM Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (reg. no. SC079063, reg office 23 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH2 1BB)United States by First Sentier Investors (US) LLC, authorised and regulated by the Securities Exchange Commission (RIA 801-93167)other jurisdictions, where this document may lawfully be issued, by First Sentier Investors International IM Limited, authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ref no. 122512; Registered office: 23 St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 1BB; Company no. SC079063).To the extent permitted by law, MUFG and its subsidiaries are not liable for any loss or damage as a result of reliance on any statement or information contained in this document. Neither MUFG nor any of its subsidiaries guarantee the performance of any investment products referred to in this document or the repayment of capital. Any investments referred to are not deposits or other liabilities of MUFG or its subsidiaries, and are subject to investment risk, including loss of income and capital invested.©    Igneo Infrastructure Partners

The Deal Scout Newsletter: Unlocking Growth with Summer CraigIf you're keen on understanding how to drive growth in private equity-backed portfolio companies through strategic sales and marketing, this episode is a must-listen!Here are the key takeaways1. Summer's Journey into Private EquityIdentifying a Market Gap:** Summer noticed that many mid-market companies lacked effective marketing strategies, leading her to establish Craig Group as a revenue growth advisor for private equity-backed firms.2. Bridging Marketing and FinanceAligning with EBITDA Goals:** Summer's team ensures that marketing efforts are directly tied to financial objectives, particularly EBITDA. This alignment helps in making marketing measurable and impactful.Integrated Functions:** Marketing and sales are fundamentally intertwined. Summer emphasizes the need for both functions to work together to drive revenue.3. Defining Clear Business GoalsMeasurable Objectives:** Establishing clear, measurable goals that align with broader business objectives is crucial. Sommer prioritizes these discussions with CFOs and boards to ensure everyone is on the same page.Customer Journey Focus:** Even in B2B contexts, understanding and guiding the customer journey is essential for effective marketing.4. Challenges in the Mid-MarketLack of Formal Marketing Functions:** Many mid-market companies struggle to scale due to the absence of a dedicated marketing team. Craig Group specializes in filling this gap.5. The Joy of Problem SolvingDiscovery Phase:** Sommer finds joy in understanding the unique challenges of each client and developing tailored solutions. This collaborative approach leads to impactful growth strategies.6. Avoiding PitfallsStrategic Hires:** Recognizing her strengths and weaknesses, Summer made strategic hires early on to focus on areas where she adds the most value, avoiding the less enjoyable aspects of running a business.7. Vision for the FutureEvolving Landscape:** Summer is optimistic about the increasing recognition of marketing's value in private equity. She believes in the potential for greater collaboration and innovation in the industry.Next Steps Share your thoughts with a review - https://www.thedealscout.com/reviews/ Let's connect on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuabrucewilson/ Subscribe and Watch on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBQN_Y3nhDGClfMxCSBDjOg Disclaimer: The content shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as financial, legal, or tax advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host, Josh Wilson, and any guests, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency or organization. Josh Wilson is a licensed real estate broker and an investment banker, but this podcast is not a substitute for professional advice. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified financial advisor, legal counsel, and tax professional before making any financial decisions or taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast.

Highlights from this week's conversation include:Lisha's Background and Journey in VC (1:44)Inspiration for Equity Charge (2:38)Angel Investing Data (4:36)Access to Venture Capital (6:02)Role of LP Investing (9:32)Advice for First-Time LPs (11:07)Valuing Early Backers (15:04)Economic Opportunity Fund at PayPal Ventures (16:14)Team Collaboration and Initiative (17:24)Advice for Other Organizations (20:00)Insider Segment: How Adoro Provides Scalable Solutions for VC Firms (21:09) Naming Adoro Advisors (23:27)Evolution of Fund Administration (25:37)Adoro's Unique Positioning (28:13)Synergy with Portfolio Companies (30:51)Building Synergistic Relationships (32:47)Diversity in GP Representation (33:39)Legacy of Racial Equity Movement (35:20)Investment Strategy and Portfolio Balance (37:42)Fintech Opportunities and Challenges (39:52)Adoption of Financial Technologies (42:10)Podcast "Sisters with Ventures" and Parting Thoughts (44:54)Lisha Bell has over 20 years of experience in technology innovation, specializing in digital money movement. She currently leads PayPal Ventures' Economic Opportunity Fund, a $100M investment in diverse emerging fund managers. Previously at PayPal, she led Product for the Financially Underserved Segment and Pay with Venmo. Prior roles include payments-related positions at Wells Fargo, Kohl's, and Feedzai, where she developed early digital financial products like online banking and digital wallets. Lisha is cofounder of BLXVC, an angel syndicate supporting Black and Brown founders, and host of the Sisters with Ventures podcast. She previously led deal flow at Pipeline Angels and serves as board chair for Black Girl Ventures. Lisha holds a BSc from USC and MBAs from UC Berkeley and Columbia, and enjoys traveling, cooking, and dancing, all while balancing motherhood duties with her daughter. Aduro Advisors is a trusted partner for venture capital fund managers, offering comprehensive and expert fund administration services. Known for being agile, responsive, and focused on making fund operations seamless, Aduro enables fund managers to concentrate on investing. With deep expertise across a variety of fund sizes and strategies, Aduro provides a full suite of services, including fund accounting and compliance. The firm understands the fast-paced nature of venture capital and prides itself on being as innovative and driven as the funds it supports. Aduro doesn't just manage operations—they help funds scale. https://www.aduroadvisors.com Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only.

Business interruption (BI) insurance is crucial for private equity firms, as it provides financial protection in the event of unforeseen disruptions to a portfolio company's operations. Interruption in business operations due to natural disasters, supply chain disruptions or cybersecurity breaches can have a significant financial impact to a fund's bottom line. For private equity firms, business interruption insurance is not only a risk management tool but also a strategic asset that can safeguard their investments, maintain the trust of investors and protect the long-term value of their portfolio companies.In this episode of The Drawdown, we welcome three members of Cherry Bekaert's Forensic and Dispute Advisory Services team: Lori Smith, Partner and Practice Leader, and John Collier and J.C. Tuthill, Managing Directors. Together, they discuss:1:28 - Business interruption insurance triggered upon damage to covered property at the premises2:30 - Coverage and policy terms for funds and portfolio companies4:25 - Calculating payment for types of business losses11:00 - Dependent property coverage12:55 - Next steps for fund managers If you or your private equity firm have any questions about business interruption insurance or how to prepare for a disruptive event, please reach out to our Forensic & Dispute Advisory Services team. 

In dieser fesselnden Episode des Digitalconomics Podcasts teilt Sven Frisch, der Gründer der "2Bros Digital Group", seine faszinierende Reise vom frühen Programmierer zum erfolgreichen Unternehmer. Er und sein Geschäftspartner Dennis Oderwald haben ein beeindruckendes Netzwerk von Firmen aufgebaut, die im E-Commerce und Digitalmarketing aktiv sind. Jede dieser Firmen verfolgt einzigartige Ziele, unterstützt sich gegenseitig und ist von Beginn an profitabel – und das ganz ohne externe Investoren. Sven spricht über die Bedeutung von Autonomie bei der Arbeit, die Kultur von Remote-Arbeit und regelmäßigen "Workations", die das Team stärken. Zudem gibt er wertvolle Gründer-Tipps und teilt seine Perspektive auf die Zukunft von Agenturen im Zeitalter künstlicher Intelligenz. Ein inspirierender Einblick für alle, die daran interessiert sind, ihr eigenes Unternehmen zu gründen oder zu skalieren. Mehr zu Sven Frisch und 2Bros Digital Group: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sven-frisch-47965a50/ 2Bros Digital Group: https://2bros-group.com/

I'm thrilled to share some exciting insights from the latest episode of our podcast, where I had the pleasure of speaking with Vic Pascucci, the co-founder of Energy Capital Ventures. If you're passionate about investment opportunities in the energy sector, particularly those that drive sustainability and innovation, this episode is a must-listen!Here are the key takeaways and intriguing points from our conversation:1. The Concept of "Green Molecules"Beyond Traditional Renewables: Vic introduces the idea of "green molecules," which includes innovative energy solutions beyond just wind and solar.Examples from the Portfolio: Companies converting waste into biofuels, extracting hydrogen from depleted wells, and developing carbon-negative cement.2. Investment Strategies and High-Growth OpportunitiesEarly-Stage Focus: Energy Capital Ventures invests in seed plus and Series A stages, particularly in deep tech or hard tech solutions.Global Reach: Up to 25% of the fund is reserved for international investments, with interests in Austria, Germany, New Zealand, and Canada.3. Challenges and Opportunities in the Energy SectorAging Infrastructure and Regulatory Hurdles: Similar to the financial services sector two decades ago, the energy industry faces significant challenges.Balanced Energy Approach: Emphasizing the need for a diverse energy strategy to meet future demands, including the role of natural gas.4. Leadership and Organizational HealthUnique Leadership Styles: Vic reflects on the importance of diverse leadership styles and the ability to inspire teams.Organizational Health: Drawing from Patrick Lencioni's concept, Vic highlights the importance of a healthy organizational culture for better decision-making and collaboration.5. Future Trends and Exciting OpportunitiesHydrogen and Carbon Capture: Vic is particularly excited about hydrogen as a clean energy source and point-source carbon capture technologies.Project Financing: Plans to expand the fund's focus to include project financing opportunities alongside early-stage ventures.6. Personal Insights and Career ReflectionsPivotal Career Decisions: From leaving a law practice to becoming a venture capitalist, Vic shares his journey and the importance of a supportive family.Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Emphasizing the need to excel in current roles, believe in the mission, and create something meaningful.7. The Role of Free Markets and CapitalismEncouraging Innovation: Vic reflects on how the free market system has allowed him to pivot his career and drive innovation in the energy sector.Common Misconceptions: Addressing the skepticism around investing in green molecules and the broader energy landscape.8. Building a Lasting LegacyMentoring the Next Generation: Vic is committed to fostering talent within his firm, ensuring the continued success of Energy Capital Ventures.Holistic View of Success: Success is about creating a positive impact on others and achieving a balanced integration of financial stability, family, community, health, and spiritual well-being.I hope these insights spark your curiosity and entice you to dive deeper into the episode. Vic's perspective on the evolving energy landscape and the importance of innovative solutions is truly enlightening.Send us a Text Message.

What's the common thread between Tesla, building startups, General Motors, venture capital and Lyft? Jon McNeill, co-founder and partner of DVx Ventures, joins TechCrunch editor Kirsten Korosec on Equity to discuss how Elon Musk's pay package has influenced founders, when it makes sense to go light on cash and heavy on equity, and his firm's unique approach to investing that eschews the traditional management fee structure. McNeill describes DVx as VC 2.0. The firm comes up with business ideas and builds them into a startup within the firm before it goes out to find the leadership team. To date, the firm has started and invested in 14 portfolio companies that span EVs and AI, SaaS, consumer tech and climate tech. McNeill also walks Equity through the startup creation process, managing risk and how to spot opportunities that can disrupt the market. Equity is TechCrunch's flagship podcast, produced by Theresa Loconsolo, and posts every Wednesday and Friday. Subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify and all the casts.You also can follow Equity on X and Threads, at @EquityPod. For the full episode transcript, for those who prefer reading over listening, check out our full archive of episodes over at Simplecast. Credits: Equity is produced by Theresa Loconsolo with editing by Kell. Bryce Durbin is our Illustrator. We'd also like to thank the audience development team and Henry Pickavet, who manages TechCrunch audio products.

Join Aaron as he share with Mark Whitby from the The Resilient Recruiter PodcastGrowing a recruitment business to 7 or 8-figure portfolio companies might be much simpler than you think.Few firm owners achieve this, but Aaron Opalewski stands as an example of this entrepreneurial success. He co-founded his first staffing company at just 24 and has nurtured his second venture into a portfolio of seven staffing companies across various industries. Remarkably, three companies consistently make 8-figure revenues, while one of them, Spark Packaging, hit 7-figures within its first year.In this episode, we discuss invaluable insights on how recruiters can fortify their businesses for growth with a special guest, Aaron Opalewski.  Aaron is the CEO and founder of Spark Talent Acquisition, a company he launched in 2013 at the age of 29. He is also a partner in two other companies outside of staffing and holds investments in the food and beverage industry. Join us as we explore strategies for structuring businesses, optimizing operations, boosting gross profit, delegating tasks, nurturing client relationships, and building successful partnerships. Tune in for a wealth of wisdom and actionable advice from Aaron's journey of entrepreneurial triumph.Episode Outline And Highlights[02:38] How Aaron got into the recruiting space[03:59] What it takes to start and launch a stuffing company [08:00] The keys to a successful business partnership [09:54] How delegation and promotion have helped Spark Talent excel [15:18] How to structure a recruiting company for lifetime customer value [24:33] Tips on how to nurture clients and maintain good relationships[30:10] How the contract and direct side of a recruiting business works [32:35] Why GP is the most important metric for growth [38:06] How to identify target companies for merger and acquisition [41:27] How to get alignments and nurture clients on social media [44:57] How mergers work in improving GP to over the million dollars range[48:25] Growth loops and profit strategy to level up business operations[57:15] What is the difference between recurring and contract revenue flow

Nick and special guest Dan Cremons take a deep dive into the world of private equity. Dan, with his extensive experience in private equity, shares insights on maximising exit value for business owners. They also discuss the evolving landscape of private equity, emphasising the importance of operational expertise and value creation post-acquisition. Dan highlights the significance of building a business that aligns with the criteria of potential buyers, focusing on people performance and strategic planning for long-term success.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Begin with the end in mind: Business owners should start by thinking about what the business needs to look like to attract the right buyers for a successful exit. Conduct exit planning sessions early: Engage in exit planning sessions with leadership teams to align on the vision for the business and the exit strategy. Think like a private equity buyer: Understand how private equity buyers assess businesses and tailor the business to meet their criteria for a successful exit. Focus on building a business that buyers would want to acquire: Create a business that aligns with the criteria of potential buyers to maximise exit value. Prioritise people performance maximisation: Recognise the importance of having the right leadership team in place to drive value creation and enhance the business's attractiveness to buyers. BEST MOMENTS "I think my path has been perhaps made it feel a bit more approachable to me. But to your point, I deal with that a lot when dealing with founders who haven't dealt with private equity before." "The good ones have identified a series of activities that they can meld together to be both different and valuable." "The presence of a clear successor to the extent that the founder is trying to transition out or doesn't have or has acknowledged they don't have the skill set to carry it forward." "I love what you're doing about getting people ready to be CEOs and putting them in. But I also know that if someone's got training wheels and an acquisition gets done, that can be a big risk as well." VALUABLE RESOURCES Find out now if you're building a high-value, exitable business (even if you have no immediate plans to sell it). You'll get an instant PDF report with powerful insights specifically tailored to your business in just 4 minutes. https://highvalueexit.scoreapp.com/ Work with Nick: https://highvalueexit.com  Nick's Facebook: https://highvalueexit.com/fb Nick's LinkedIn: https://highvalueexit.com/li Nick's Instagram: https://highvalueexit.com/ig Nick Bradley is a renowned entrepreneur, investor, speaker, and business growth expert. His background is growing and scaling Venture Capital and Private Equity backed businesses globally. Over the last decade, he has completed 117 acquisitions and 25 business exits with a combined valuation of over $5bn dollars. His mission is to help business founders build valuable businesses and create life-changing exits so they can realise freedom, wealth, and impact.Nick Bradley- exit, strategy, podcast, business, scale, scale up, growth, equity, high-value, wealth, sell, sold: https://highvalueexit.com/

Michelle Swan knows the secret behind how Tercera's portfolio companies earn lucrative returns on thought leadership--and no, it's not just echoing the latest trends on the cloud, AI, etcetera. As CMO & Partner for the leading investment and advisory firm, Michelle drives its thought leadership strategy. This includes coordinating the firm's marquee Tercera 30 annual report on cloud services trends. Michelle knows the true strategy for successful tech services firms lies in demonstrating their problem-solving expertise with ample evidence to be heard above the din. On this episode of Everything Thought Leadership, Michelle discusses her mindset, why most tech companies struggle with thought leadership, and the future of tech services thought leadership in the age of generative AI, among other topics. “Blueprint” by Jahzzar is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Music set to moving visuals. https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Ashes_1206/blueprint/ https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

In this episode of "The Goats of Growth," I had the pleasure of speaking with Sherri Sklar,  a seasoned tech growth strategist and Chief Revenue Officer, while also an Operating Partner at Edison Partners, which a growth equity firm. Sherri partners with Boards, CEOs, and executive leaders to help them build, scale and optimize their sales, marketing and customer success teams.  In this episode we discuss: Strategies for effectively aligning sales and marketing efforts. How she first added Operating Partner to her CRO title  The significant role her network track record of success has played   The value of assessing talent and recruitng the best There sponsibilities of a CRO/Operating Partner  Key metrics for gauging and optimizing success. Valuable insights into fostering a robust sales culture. All that and more. Tune in and enjoy the episode. Sherri's Linkedin Profile Sherri Sklar's expertise (00:01:02) Overview of Sherri Sklar's expertise and career in tech growth strategy and revenue leadership. Defining the role of an operating partner (00:02:07) Explanation of the role and purpose of an operating partner at a private equity firm. Operating partner expertise areas (00:04:10) Discussion of the different function areas besides go-to-market that operating partners may focus on. Transition to operating partner role (00:09:24) Sherri Sklar's transition from Chief Revenue Officer to operating partner and the circumstances leading to it. Networking and career opportunities (00:10:56) The role of networking and relationships in career opportunities and job referrals. Impact on a portfolio company (00:13:29) Sherris impact on a portfolio company's growth and success. Strategic decision-making (00:16:31) The process of making strategic decisions and conducting assessments for growth strategies. Identifying common growth challenges (00:19:49) Common challenges and areas for improvement in scaling companies, particularly related to identifying ideal customer profiles and aligning sales and marketing. Transitioning from fractional CRO to operating partner (00:25:01) The path from being a fractional CRO to becoming an operating partner at a private equity firm and the necessary qualifications. The role of an operating partner (00:32:12) The responsibilities and involvement of an operating partner in a private equity firm, including due diligence, creating plans, and being an advocate for portfolio companies. Measuring success and impact on portfolio companies (00:34:52) Evaluating success and impact in terms of enterprise value, growth, bookings, and retention, and the key levers to impact results positively. Evaluating sales talent for portfolio companies (00:38:14) The qualities and skills to look for in evaluating sales talent and the impact of getting the right talent on the commercial value of the company. Coaching and leadership (00:51:15) Sherri discusses the importance of coaching and leadership in developing both talented and struggling team members. Building a great sales culture (00:54:33) Sherri suggests a meaty question for the next guest about building a great sales culture and its impact on organizational success.

Shiv Narayanan interviews Ripan Kadakia, Partner at ZMC. Ripan and Shiv discuss ZMC's aim to serve portfolio companies through a strategy that includes business development, talent acquisition and technology. Learn about ZMC's focus on macro trends to identify long-term investment opportunities, and hear case studies of growth in challenging circumstances within their portfolio. Plus, we discuss the benefits of prioritizing a culture of integrity, transparency and kindness. Resources ZMC website: https://zmclp.com/ Connect with Ripan Kadakia on linkedin @ripankadakia The information contained in this podcast is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice.

How will new SEC cyber rulings affect private equity firms cybersecurity protocol? Chad Neale and Chris Clark, Alliant M&A, are joined by Former SEC Chair Senior Cybersecurity Advisor, Chris Hetner, to discuss SEC cyber regulations and their impact on private equity and portfolio companies. They discuss the top privacy concerns for 2024, what steps private equity firms should take to ensure compliance and the potential penalties for non-compliance.

Join us as Tom Wilson from Seedcamp and Anthony Danon from Cocoa talk to Paul Forster, co-founder & CEO of Indeed and currently an active angel investor.Paul Forster co-founded Indeed and was CEO until the company's acquisition in late 2012. Today, Indeed is the leading job site globally, with over 100 million unique visitors in more than 50 countries and 26 languages. Paul previously co-founded the leading job site for financial professionals, and before that was an investment professional at International Finance Corporation. He holds an MBA from INSEAD and Master's degrees from Cambridge and Oxford Universities.Paul loves working with founders and loves their energy, creativity, and variety. As an investor, he enjoys the intellectual stimulation from getting to know different industries and sectors and from working with different kinds of people.We invite you to listen to this discussion below to hear some wonderful stories, besides the actionable pieces of advice that you can have a sneak peek at below.Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview

On this episode of Ropes & Gray's California Law for Asset Managers podcast series, asset management partner Catherine Skulan, corporate partner and global ESG, CSR & business and human rights practice head Michael Littenberg and counsel Marc Rotter discuss three new climate and greenhouse gas bills recently signed into California law: AB 1305, SB 261 and SB 253. Each law creates new public disclosure requirements about climate-related issues that may impact asset managers and their portfolio companies.

Follow me @samirkaji for my thoughts on the venture market, with a focus on the continued evolution of the VC landscape.We're thrilled to have Alex Pall, general partner at Mantis VC, a seed and an early stage fund based in LA. Alex is a great example of someone who has made a significant crossover from another industry—he is one half of the award-winning duo of the Chainsmokers, a group that has found mainstream success by breaking boundaries between pop, indie, electronic, alternative, and rock.We discuss how Alex and the team thought through joining the ranks of venture capital, their early learnings, and the importance of self-awareness in terms of ` About Alex Pall:Alex Pall is one half (Drew Taggart is the other half)of the GRAMMY® Award-winning, RIAA Diamond-certified duo The Chainsmokers. In 2020, alongside Drew Taggart, Jeffrey Evans, and Milan Koch, founded Mantis Venture Capital.Other businesses under their purview include a stake in the popular JAJA Tequila and The Chainsmokers' very own film, television, and podcast production company, Kick The Habit Productions—which boasts a full slate of projects in development.In this episode, we discuss:(01:51) Chainsmokers' Early Days and Entrepreneurial Goals​​(02:48) Transition from Music Artists to Financially Savvy Investors​​(03:37) Emphasis on Passion-Driven Investments​​(04:50) Building a Network and Seeking Investment Opportunities​​(06:43) Critical Decision-Making in Business Ventures​​(07:00) Inspiration from Jimmy Buffett's Business Model​​(08:14) Importance of Work Ethic and Assisting Founders​​(12:31) Addressing skepticism about a celebrity fund(13:50) Mentor's Advice on Investing with Experienced Partners​​(16:51) Setting Realistic Goals in Initial Fundraising​​(17:19) Fundraising Challenges During COVID-19's Onset​​(19:01) Learning from the first fund(20:11) Insights on Unpredictability in Venture Capital Investing​​(22:15) Developing a Disciplined Investment Approach​​(26:01) Adding Value to Portfolio Companies​​(27:46) Storytelling as a Business Differentiator​​(31:01) Trust as a Cornerstone in Investment Community​​(31:32) Learning from past Investment Decision​​s(32:45) Investing in Great Teams and People​​(33:51) Holistic View in Investment Decisions​​(36:04) Providing Honest Feedback to Founders​​(37:52) Navigating a Challenging Investment Landscape​​(39:25) Avoiding Overreliance on Large Capital Raises​​(40:09) Differentiating Business Strategies​​(41:32) Parallels Between Music and Venture Capital​​(44:13) Success Beyond Prestigious Educational Backgrounds​​(45:30) Passion and Commitment in Projects​I'd love to know what you took away from this conversation with Alex. Follow me @SamirKaji and give me your insights and questions with the hashtag #ventureunlocked. If you'd like to be considered as a guest or have someone you'd like to hear from (GP or LP), drop me a direct message on Twitter.Podcast Production support provided by Agent Bee  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ventureunlocked.substack.com

Here's what we got into on this very cold November morning:Crypto's melt-up is continuing, with rising trading volumes following in the wake of the price gains. For web3 believers, it's great news.The FT has a great interview with Sam Altman about how AI training is going to stay expensive for a long while; Microsoft is probably not worried about the costs, however.Didi's earnings dropped, kicking off a busy week for Chinese tech companies including Alibaba, NetEase, and Tencent Music.The Block is getting its cap table into shape.And Shekel Mobility raised an interesting round that we just had to talk about.Don't forget that next week is a holiday week here in the United States!For episode transcripts and more, head to Equity's Simplecast website.Equity drops at 7 a.m. PT every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, so subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify and all the casts. TechCrunch also has a great show on crypto, a show that interviews founders and more!

The UK Investor Magazine was thrilled to welcome Craig Martin, Chairman of Dynam Capital, the manager of Vietnam Holding, for a deep dive into the trust's portfolio companies.Download the Vietnam Holding annual reportCraig has provided a comprehensive analysis of the Vietnamese economy in previous podcasts. In his latest instalment, Craig Martin offers deep insight into three portfolio companies; FPT Corporation, Petrovietnam Technical Services, and Gemadept.FPT Corporation is the portfolio's largest holding with 15% weighting. The company provides technology and STEM education services and is positioned to benefit from Vietnam's aims to do more in the semiconductor value chain.Petrovietnam Technical Services (PVS) is a renewable energy transition play. Vietnam Holding feels PVS could be a key winner in Vietnam's plans for NetZero by 2050 – through its ambitions to be a leading producer and exporter of renewable energy. In addition, PVS is working with Singapore to build the world's longest subsea electricity cable (1000 km to export 1.2 GW, 10% of Singapore's energy need).We finish with a look at Gemadept, an operator of seaports and air cargo in Vietnam. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Introducing Matthew GarffMatthew Garff is the Senior Managing Director at Sun Capital Partners, Inc. - a private investment firm focused on investing in middle-market businesses. Sun Capital's portfolio includes approximately 35 businesses across multiple sectors, with over 400 acquisitions since the late '90s. What You Will Learn:Culture as The Key to Success in Private EquityThe Problem with the Low Barrier to Entry in Private EquityPrivate Equity Deal Scarcity Breakdown:[00:00] Introduction[01:40] The Mistakes PE Firms Make with Their Portfolio Companies[02:38] How Sun Capital Measures Company Culture[05:15] The Link Between Great Cultures and PE Success[07:32] Current Trends in Private Equity[11:46] What the Best Firms Do to Create Value in Portfolio Companies[15:53] The Role of PE Firms in Their Portfolio Company's Success[18:35] Deal Team and Portfolio Team Working Together[21:11] What's Driving Deal Scarcity in Private Equity[25:58] Biggest Lessons in Matthew's Career[28:02] What Matthew Likes and Dislikes About Private Equity[29:53] The Low Barrier to Entry in Private Equity[31:30] What Matthew Watches, Reads, and Listens To [25:53] Parting Thoughts How Culture Impacts Private Equity SuccessIs company culture important for making successful PE firms and portfolio companies? According to Matthew, the culture within a company plays an important role in the performance of that company. Companies with great cultures often translate to better returns for investors. Companies with not-so-great cultures rarely get the intended results for their investors. Unfortunately, culture can often be an afterthought in PE. So, how can you build great cultures in your company? It all starts with getting the right people in the right positions. Firms with the right people are more likely to build a great culture. This, in turn, benefits the firm by embracing a forward-thinking approach—which is often a common predictor of financial success. How to Contact Matthew GarffMatthew's LinkedInSuncappart.com​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.

To deal with the increased risks surrounding regulatory inquiry, privacy compliance, and cybersecurity, it is vital that private equity firms and their portfolio companies focus on implementing internal policies and procedures to better establish healthy privacy and security hygiene. Please join Anthony Diana, Catherine Castaldo, Sheek Shah and Gary Barnabo to discuss why establishing policies should matter for private equity firms and their portfolio companies and which policies should be prioritized so the private equity firm can more effectively protect itself and its investment.

In today's day and age, no company is immune from the risks posed by data breaches, and that includes private equity firms and their portfolio companies. Fortunately, there are practices that can be implemented to minimize the risks and effects of a breach if one occurs – practices that protect the value of the portfolio companies. Please join Anthony Diana, Catherine Castaldo, Sheek Shah and Gary Barnabo to discuss why and how tabletop exercises with the private equity firm and its portfolio companies can help the private equity firm more effectively protect itself and its investment.

We delve into the concerns of private equity leaders regarding AI use in their portfolio companies. Join Knownwell's David DeWolf, Courtney Baker, and Mohan Rao as they discuss who is best suited to spearhead AI initiatives in your organization. Lee Garber of NewSpring Capital stops by to talk with Pete Buer about where, on the metaphorical football field, he sees companies in terms of their ability to use AI technology to drive value. And, in the news segment, Courtney and Pete dig into stories about Generative AI and how AI is being used to improve efficiency, scheduling, operations, and productivity in the construction space. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/umui78_Dt8o Take your free AI Readiness Assessment at https://knownwell.com/assessment. AI Knowhow is brought to you by the team at Knownwell. Visit www.knownwell.com to discover how they can help you harness the power of AI to boost profitability. For more about the AI Knowhow, visit www.knownwell.com/podcast.

Technology and data risks at portfolio companies directly impact the value of these companies as these risks are becoming a major focus of due diligence when the companies are sold, often leading to a reduction in purchase price, indemnifications, or, in some instances, killing the deal. Whether you're faced with a data breach that damages brand reputation or discloses highly valuable, confidential information or with privacy policies that do not allow for the sale of customer information, the importance of portfolio companies proactively managing these risks is paramount and can be done without significant investment. Gary Barnabo, Anthony Diana, Catherine Castaldo and Sheek Shah discuss these issues at a high level, introducing the concept and offering some steps that private equity companies can take to manage the risks, with future podcasts providing more specific guidance.

Shiv Narayanan interviews Mariza Warshawsky, Partner at Assembly Group. Mariza and Shiv discuss Assembly Group's tried-and-tested process to source and hire for key roles for PE-backed software companies. Learn how the experts recommend laying the groundwork for a successful search, and how to secure the best candidates in a competitive market. Get clarity on what to expect when you're looking for a function leader who can supercharge portco growth. Resources Learn more about Assembly Group Connect with Mariza Warshawsky - LinkedIn The information contained in this podcast is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice.

Introducing Jon ThompsonJon Thompson is the author of The Dashboard Effect and co-founder & Chief Strategy Officer at Blue Margin, where he helps private equity and mid-market companies quickly convert data into automated dashboards. Their mission is to deliver breakthroughs early and often, and within clients' timelines and budgets. Jon offers practical steps for business leaders who want to quickly leverage data to improve outcomes. What You Will LearnHow to Apply Data and Analytics in Private EquityWhy Data Intelligence is a Great Differentiator in BusinessWays Data is Slowly Transforming Private Equity Breakdown[00:00] Who is Jon Thompson?[02:00] Common Mistakes by PE Firms and Their Portfolio Companies[04:38] Data Analytics in Private Equity and Why It's Important[07:24] Successful Data Utilization in PE[10:09] How to Make Data the Main Part of Your Execution Strategy[12:32] Reliable and Scalable Data Architecture[15:18] How to Use Data to Inform Your Decisions[20:00] Using Data Internally to Define Key PE Metrics[22:15] How to Create a Data Utilization Culture[25:55] Improving Data and Analytics in PE[28:57] Jon's Go-To Self-Improvement Resources[35:25] Parting Thoughts  Successful Data Utilization in Private EquityPrivate equity firms have recognized the immense potential of data utilization in enhancing their investment decision-making processes and driving operational efficiency. By harnessing the power of data analytics, PE firms can uncover valuable insights, identify investment opportunities, and optimize portfolio performance. Successful data utilization in PE involves leveraging various data sources, employing advanced analytics techniques, and fostering a data-driven culture. Rapid growth and the birth of AI have heightened the importance of in-depth data and analytics. To compete, PE firms need high-quality technology solutions to sharpen their insight and streamline their workflows across the entire fund lifecycle. However, data is only as valuable as it is understandable and accessible. According to Jon, without an effective way to manage information, your data can very quickly become “noise.” And in some cases, noise is worse than not having the data at all. How to Contact Jon:Jon's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-thompson-37282432/ Jon's Email: Jon@Bluemargin.comBluemargin.comThe Dashboard Effect Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dashboard-effect/id1634065977 The Dashboard Effect: Transform Your Company by Jon Thompson and Brick Thompson Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.  

Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast Playbook Series. In this series, we'll dive deep into crucial private equity subjects and provide playbooks that you can use to grow your firm or portfolio company.  Introducing Jay GoldmanJay Goldman is the Co-Founder and CEO of Sensei Labs, a Conductor used by the world's top organizations to orchestrate their most critical transformations. Jay and his team enable project management, collaboration, data tracking, and knowledge management that modern organizations need to be successful.  What You Will LearnSources of Value Creation in Private EquityWhat it Means to Create Value in a Portfolio CompanyHow to Create Structure in Your Processes Breakdown[00:00] Introduction[01:40] Value Creation in Private Equity[03:51] What it Means to Create Value in Private Equity[07:02] The First Step to Creating Value in an Asset[09:15] How to Build a Value Creation Team[12:15] Templates for an Effective Value Creation Plan[15:00] How to Orchestrate a Value Creation Process [20:35] Playbooks and the Benefits of Having a Repeatable Checklist [23:43] Why Internal Communication is Crucial For Team Success[26:54] Who Should Be In Charge of Value Creation?[32:20] How to Build Out Checklists and Workflows[35:19] Pros and Cons of Status Reporting[36:55] Parting Thoughts  Value Creation in Private EquityWhat does it mean to create value? If you're looking at it from an enterprise value perspective, you have an asset as part of our portfolio, and paid $10 million for it. Then your goal should be to exit it at a multiple, say 30, 40, or 50 million dollars. This means you'll have to create some enterprise value before exiting that asset. Jay adds that value creation is no longer associated with firing people. Much has changed, and now more PE firms are determined to create value. Today, PE firms are focused on building better businesses by growing their ability to produce revenue, built on acquisitions, geographic expansion, repricing, or new product lines. However, this is not to say that cost reduction is not essential because it will always be a factor in almost every value-creation plan. But it is now less emphasized than it was in the past. How to Contact JayJay on LinkedInSenseilabs.comThe Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right by Atul Gawande ​​Thank you for tuning in!To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here.Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.   

20Angel is a series profiling European angel investors with the best Founder NPS. Episode 10 features Jens Lapinski, one Europe's most active angel investors. He is the Founding Partner of Angel Invest, an angel fund which has invested in 100+ companies. Formally, he was an MD at Techstars, Partner at Forward Labs (now Forward Partners) and co-founded aiHit, which was acquired in 2015. Some of his angel portfolio includes Lemon Markets, Everphone, Impala, Ivy & Index Health. The format for 20Angel is consistent across show, with questions including: What are some of the non-obvious things they look for when investing in a company? How they work with their Founders? How Founders should approach them? What they think makes a great angel investor? Learnings from their Anti-Portfolio? The show is sponsored by Edda.co, a design-led software that allows you to see, in real time, the true dimension of your investments, and the value and impact they create. Edda Dealflow and Edda Portfolio streamlines the operations of funds, from managing due diligence and deal flow through to supporting portfolio companies. It brings the entire investment process together in one place, supercharging communications with portfolio companies, making investments much easier. To find out more, visit edda.co and request a demo using "Edda20VC".

Introducing David SoppDavid Sopp is the Senior Vice President of Business Development at Simply Beautiful Smiles (SBS), a dental service organization, owned by Sun Capital Partners. He and his team acquire, operate, and offer back-office services to general dentistry practices across the Mid-Atlantic area. They currently have 40 locations across five states. Before joining SBS, he was a private capital investor investing in private equity and sub-debt.What You Will Learn Perspectives from Being an Investor and an Operator Acquiring Businesses at Attractive MultiplesThe Attributes of Top Performing InvestorsBreakdown[0:50] Introducing David Sopp[3:58] What Made David Shift from Investor to Operator [6:43] What David Wishes He Knew as an Investor [8:30] Lessons from Private Equity [10:14] The Mistakes That Most PE Firms are Making[12:24] How to Acquire Business at More Attractive Multiples[15:36] Lessons for Lower-Middle Market Investors [19:27] Three Attributes of a Top Performing Investor[23:24] Advice for Operators, C-Suite Executives, and Portfolio Companies[26:23] What David Watches, Reads, and Listens To [28:20] Where to Reach David[29:01] Parting ThoughtsAcquiring Businesses at More Attractive MultiplesOne way is to know where to look, and that comes with developing one's own proprietary deal workflow. More firms are considering entrepreneurs they've backed before and identifying investment ideas that no one else is pursuing yet. Another way is to use operating resources to create and realize upsides. It's because there's often more than meets the eye with businesses. Investors need to look into each element of a business to consider how it can potentially differentiate and diversify the business to generate more equity value. Finally, investors must change their mindset about investing. It isn't always about financial engineering. Instead, investors should focus on building businesses with world class talent with more efficient systems. Building the exact asset that potential customers are looking for will allow investors to mitigate the prices they're working with while also creating even more value to the business post-acquisition. 3 Attributes of a Top-Performing Investor?1.     Intellectual curiosityAs the world changes, so do investment strategies. Top-performing investors keep pace with the changing world by remaining curious about what's new, how it's going to affect their investments, and what challenges and opportunities are on the way. They need to be passionate about discovering new industries, meeting new people, and developing new skills. 2.     Ability to spot patternsIndustries, no matter how different, will often share similar characteristics. Being able to spot these allows top performing investors to get up to speed on new industries and business models much faster than others. Top investors can leverage the patterns they recognize to scope out a better due diligence process and run sensitivities about how likely negative scenarios are going to happen. As David explains, it also helps top performers spot show-stopping deals: investments with unmanageable risks. These help investors mitigate their risks and identify better opportunities.3.     Confidence Investing involves taking calculated risks and many people challenge investing decisions. Top-performing investors need to have the courage and conviction to articulate support for their investing theses. They need to ensure that their thesis makes sense. Without this ability, as David explains, deals aren't going to get done.

In 2023, funds of funds (FoFs) are on track to raise the smallest amount of money this year in more than a decade. 

David Rodriguez is the Founder and President of TLC Advisors, LLC, and serves as an Outsourced/Fractional VP of Sales at Sales Xceleration. With over 30 years of experience in sales and strategy, including roles at Fortune 50 companies and private equity-owned portfolio companies, David brings a wealth of expertise to his clients. He specializes in partnering with small and medium-sized business CEOs, owners, and sales leaders to build effective sales infrastructures tailored to their specific goals. By implementing the right tools, processes, and teams, David helps businesses create record-breaking growth at a fraction of the cost.David's personal journey, growing up as one of five children to a high school dropout who went on to have a successful military career, instilled in him qualities of adaptability, resilience, resourcefulness, and humility. Being the only child to attend college and fulfill his dream of playing college football, he embarked on a 30+ year professional career, serving as an executive at a Fortune 50 company and multiple private equity-owned portfolio companies. Now, with his own Sales Advisory Practice, David assists SMB companies in accelerating their growth by providing expertise in sales infrastructure and management. However, his most significant accomplishment is his 31-year marriage to his high school sweetheart and raising two successful college graduates who contribute meaningfully to society.In his discussions, David focuses on the keys to leadership and creating value, emphasizing the importance of foresight, curiosity, and trustworthiness. To connect with David or learn more about his services, visit his Canva site at https://salesxceleration.my.canva.site/david-rodriguez.

In this episode you will learn:What are some of the success stories, challenges, and crisis that Karl faced while building multiple startups, and how did he navigate them?According to Karl, why should a VC think like an entrepreneur, and how can this approach benefit startups?Does Karl believe that prior experience as an entrepreneur is ideal for someone looking to become a VC, and why?How is M13's propulsion platform different from the platform model of other VC funds, and how does it help startups?Why is it important for VCs to support their portfolio companies when there are leading indicators of a crisis?Why is building trust with founders important for a VC to ensure that they are taken seriously and not create friction?What is M13's investment thesis, and why do they prefer to back startups that are building infrastructure layers?What are some common mistakes made by the teams and founders of infrastructure layer startups, and how can they be avoided?What does Karl mean when he says, "The value I seek can only be realized at scale," and what kind of startups is he looking for?How should startups strategize their fundraising and operations during an economic downturn like the one we are experiencing now?AboutAs DigitalOcean's COO, Karl built the business from first product to >500 employees & $250M ARR over six years and prepared it for its eventual IPO (NYSE: DOCN). Having previously managed and exited two startups over a 20 year operating career, Karl is now M13's managing partner and oversees its day-to-day operations.

RELATIONSHIP IS ARGUABLY THE FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENT OF A BUSINESSIn this episode, Randy welcomes David Nour, CEO of the Nour Group, and the author of Relationship Economics. David will be discussing the importance of learning that building relationships is a teachable skill, one that is objective and quantifiable, and not some simple soft skill. David will also talk about the third edition of his book which was made due to the global changes in business after the pandemic. Find out more in this latest episode of Tech Sales Insights.INSIGHTS OF THE DAYDAVID: CHANGE IS COMING SOON“We got to stop calling these things soft skills because we've quantifiably proven that relationships can accelerate, go-to-market relationships can accelerate you identifying and recruiting exceptional talent, relationships can dramatically shorten ramp-up time and time to cash. So it is quantifiable, it's essential. And still, it is not taught in many organizations, and we believe it can be a teachable skill.”Find out more about David in the links below:David Nour | The Nour Group | NourGroup.com This episode of Tech Sales Insights is brought to you by: Sales Community | OpenSymmetry

In this episode, Masha talks about how she turned from an operator to an investor, the most critical element when investing in the market, assessing both market size and market growth, how founders can know whether a VC can add value, giving hard feedback to founders, board membership, and much more!

Jon Gilbert and Tim Conlon, Alliant M&A, sit with Jon Van Tuin, P4G Capital, to discuss how portfolio companies have been impacted by supply chain risk, how they can manage that risk and what the remainder of 2022 and 2023 has in store for the M&A market.

Private Equity Profit Podcast with Cliff Locks Episode 055 Preparing your Portfolio Companies for a Successful Exit with the M&A Hyper Accelerator Educational Program with Cliff Locks Listen to this special Private Equity Profit episode with Cliff Locks as he discusses an opportunity for portfolio companies to help ensure they will sell with a 1.5x average valuation increase. He introduces the M&A Hyper Accelerator Educational Program. The program is designed to help companies prepare for their exit and maximize their value. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week's show: The importance of preparing portfolio company executives for a successful exit The value of the M&A Hyperaccelerator educational program The potential for a 1.5x average valuation increase for companies that go through the program Connect with Cliff: M&A Hyper Accelerator Educational Program https://www.startupcourse.com/ cliff@investmentcapitalgrowth.com https://www.investmentcapitalgrowth.com/ (631) 338-2114 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BoardExecutive Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cliff_locks/ Twitter https://twitter.com/clifflocks LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/clifflocks/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blackstone Growth's Jon Korngold joins Spencer on this episode of Office Hours for a conversation about how the recent stock market downturn is affecting the tech sector and whether a market correction lies ahead. Korngold is Senior Managing Director and Head of Blackstone's global growth equity investing platform, where he focuses on funding growth-stage companies. Prior to joining Blackstone in 2019, Korngold was on the Management Committee of General Atlantic, leading both the global financial services and health care sectors. Korngold also worked at Goldman Sachs and is a member of The Council on Foreign Relations. He's also active with Harvard University, where he serves on the Harvard College Fund's Executive Committee.

Sunday double-header. First, in VC Sunday School Jason discusses competing companies in the portfolio, when it's ok, when it's not and how to manage issues in good faith (01:52). Then, in This Week in Climate Startups, Molly interviews Energy Impact Partners' Shayle Kann (19:42) about "Deep Decarbonization," the carbon management industry (33:37) and more. 00:00 Jason and Molly intro today's show 01:52 VCSS: Can you invest in competing companies? Where to draw that line? 11:55 iTrust Capital - Visit https://itrust.capital/twist to create your Crypto IRA today 13:11 When to give a “no” to a company 19:42 TWiCS with Shayle Kann 22:19 Cyvatar - Get your first 2 months free at https://cyvatar.ai/twist 23:35 Deep Decarbonization 32:21 Lemon.io - Get 15% off your first 4 weeks of developer time at https://Lemon.io/twist 33:37 Defining the Carbon Management Industry 49:18 The nuts and bolts of Shayle's fund 56:57 Shayle's podcasts: Carbon Copy and Catalyst Check out Energy Impact Partners: https://www.energyimpactpartners.com FOLLOW Shayle Kann: https://twitter.com/shaylekann FOLLOW Jason: https://linktr.ee/calacanis FOLLOW Molly: https://twitter.com/mollywood

Sunday double-header. First, in VC Sunday School Jason discusses competing companies in the portfolio, when it's ok, when it's not and how to manage issues in good faith (01:52). Then, in This Week in Climate Startups, Molly interviews Energy Impact Partners' Shayle Kann (19:42) about "Deep Decarbonization," the carbon management industry (33:37) and more.