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Odd Lots

The Harvard Endowment Is on the Verge of Losing Its Crown

Nov 22, 2024
Janet Lorin, Bloomberg's higher education finance reporter, discusses the perilous position of Harvard's endowment as it risks being surpassed by the University of Texas. She explores the reasons behind Harvard's decline, including management controversies and unique advantages for Texas driven by energy revenues. The conversation highlights the shifting landscape of university endowments, fundraising challenges, and the implications of investment strategies in private equity. Lorin also touches on alumni reactions to recent controversies affecting donations.
37:41

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Quick takeaways

  • Harvard's endowment is at risk of losing its status due to poor performance and significant criticisms regarding its management strategies.
  • Political controversies and public dissatisfaction with Harvard's handling of social issues have negatively impacted its fundraising and financial stability.

Deep dives

The Growth of Direct Lending

Direct lending has emerged as a crucial source of capital in recent years, significantly benefiting both corporate borrowers and financial sponsors. This rise is linked to numerous firms seeking private capital to support their growth strategies in an increasingly competitive landscape. The dynamics of the private credit market have changed, with institutional investors now allocating substantial resources to this sector, thus enhancing the availability of funds. As a result, direct lending not only provides alternatives for businesses but also illustrates the evolving nature of investment strategies in the private sector.

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