Marc Rowan, CEO and co-founder of Apollo Global Management, discusses the firm’s meteoric rise from $40 billion to over $700 billion in assets. He dives into how private credit is reshaping the banking landscape and challenges misconceptions about direct lending. The conversation highlights investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of purchase price amid inflated market valuations. Rowan also shares insights on navigating economic risks related to geopolitical tensions and expresses optimism about future work opportunities.
Apollo's growth from $40 billion to over $700 billion highlights the importance of strategic adaptability in a shifting financial landscape.
The transition towards index-based strategies raises concerns about active management's viability and the challenges of short-term price discovery in public markets.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Apollo's Business Model
Apollo Global Management has experienced significant growth in assets under management, increasing from $40 billion in 2008 to over $700 billion today. This transformation has been driven not solely by prowess or talent, but by strategic positioning within a changing financial landscape. The firm has adapted by recognizing that private credit encompasses a wide array of assets traditionally viewed as bank products, thereby expanding their market reach. By focusing on value through careful pricing strategies, Apollo effectively navigates the complexities of both private and public credit markets, leveraging opportunities that others might overlook.
Understanding Market Dynamics and Risks
Current market dynamics showcase a shift towards index-based investment strategies, where a small percentage of stocks dominate performance outcomes, challenging traditional active management's effectiveness. The reliance on passive investments has led to questions around short-term price discovery in public markets, emphasizing a disconnect between perceived market functionality and reality. Factors such as geopolitical tensions and domestic fiscal policies illustrate the complex landscape investors must navigate, particularly in the face of substantial budget deficits during stable economic conditions. Despite these challenges, the long-term environment appears conducive for investment, albeit with a cautious approach toward potential risks.
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What does it take to stay resilient in a fast-changing financial world? How are private markets transforming the way we invest? And how does Apollo approach risk? Nicolai Tangen meets with Marc Rowan, CEO and co-founder of Apollo Global Management, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of finance and explore what it takes to stay ahead in an industry full of risks.
In Good Company is hosted by Nicolai Tangen, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management. New full episode out every Wednesday, and don't miss our Highlight episodes every Friday.
The production team for this episode includes Isabelle Karlsson and PLAN-B’s Niklas Figenschau Johansen, Sebastian Langvik-Hansen and Pål Huuse, with research by Isabelle Karlsson.