Alex Edelson, founder of Slipstream Investors, discusses the benefits of investing in VC fund of funds with David Weisburd. They cover topics like portfolio construction, due diligence process, ideal number of funds for diversification, assessing fund managers, importance of founder references, gaining access to oversubscribed funds, and value of transparency with GPs.
Investing in a fund of funds offers exposure to top venture firms efficiently, beneficial for diversified investments.
Portfolio diversification in venture capital involves allocating around 90% to core investments across different vintage years for risk mitigation.
Deep dives
Investing in Single Fund versus Fund of Funds
When deciding between investing in a single fund or a fund of funds, the trade-off lies in the level of concentration versus diversification. Investing in a single fund allows for greater concentration if you can identify a great fund. However, investing in a fund of funds provides exposure to top-tier venture firms when time constraints or access issues hinder direct fund selection. Fund of funds offer a way to access top-performing venture funds efficiently and can be a strategic choice for investors seeking broader exposure.
Portfolio Construction and Time Diversification
In portfolio construction for venture investments, a balanced approach involves around 90% allocation to core investments comprising 10 to 15 funds for substantial impact. Diversification across vintage years mitigates risk, promoting exposure to different market cycles. Investing across multiple funds that start deploying at various times ensures diversification across time periods, aligning with the challenging nature of timing in venture investments.
Diligence Process and Data Room Insights
The diligence process for managers entails evaluating GP motivations, portfolio construction strategies, and the competitive edge in attracting top founders. A comprehensive data room with detailed investment schedules, fund models, and performance analytics aids in assessing fund track records and risk factors. Utilizing both on-list and off-list references, including insights from downstream VCs and mutual contacts, assists in gauging fund managers' reputation and investment success potential.
Alex Edelson, Founder of Slipstream Investors, sits down with David Weisburd to discuss the benefits and tradeoffs of investing in venture capital fund of funds. They also touch on Slipstream’s investment thesis, portfolio construction, and due diligence process.
(0:00) Episode preview
(2:16) Discussion on portfolio diversification
(4:41) Benefits & trade-offs in fund to funds strategy versus single fund investing
(7:13) Ideal number of funds for diversification in venture capital
(8:46) Life cycle of a diligence process when vetting a manager
(12:05) Assessing a fund manager
(13:05) Importance of founder references
(14:09) Essentials in a fund data room
(16:17) Value of transparency with GPs
(18:25) Gaining access to oversubscribed funds
(19:22) Closing remarks
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