E98: How the $3.5 Billion University of Rochester Endowment Invests
Sep 26, 2024
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Rob Rahbari, Senior Investment Officer and Assistant Treasurer at the University of Rochester, joins expert David Weisburd to dive into institutional investing. They discuss the untapped potential of diverse fund managers and the necessity of inclusion in investment strategies. Insights on macro factors affecting investments, the importance of nurturing relationships with investment partners, and strategic portfolio construction are shared. They also emphasize the role of community impact through innovative programs and diversity in manager selection.
The importance of building a mastermind network among limited partners to share insights and improve investment outcomes is emphasized.
A concentrated investment strategy focusing on top-tier managers across various asset classes maximizes performance while minimizing risks.
Deep dives
Building Effective Mastermind Networks
The development of a mastermind network is crucial for enhancing performance as a limited partner (LP) in investment strategies. Relationships with other LPs enable the sharing of insights, strategies, and best practices, creating a supportive community where members learn from each other’s experiences. Engaging with mentors and peers, as exemplified by the relationships built over years, deepens understanding of the investment landscape. This interconnectedness allows for collaborative evaluation of managers and opportunities, ultimately maximizing investment outcomes.
Concentration Strategy Benefits
A highly concentrated investment strategy is employed to capitalize on the expertise of top-tier managers across different asset classes and regions. Maintaining a small number of investments allows for deeper relationships and understanding of specific sectors, which can enhance decision-making and portfolio performance. The strategy's effectiveness is showcased by capturing two-thirds of the equity market's upside while minimizing the downside risk. This approach, while selective, aims to create a diversified portfolio that remains manageable and impactful.
Evaluating Manager Selection Criteria
The criteria for selecting new managers involve a thorough blend of top-down and bottom-up approaches to ensure a strategic fit within the portfolio. Top-down evaluations consider industry trends and potential growth areas, while bottom-up strategies focus on referrals and personal interactions with managers. This multifaceted process emphasizes the importance of understanding both the competitive landscape and the specific strengths of each manager. Detailed upfront information is preferred to ensure an efficient screening process, allowing for meaningful investments with higher potential returns.
Rob Rahbari, Senior Investment Officer and Assistant Treasurer at University of Rochester sits down with David Weisburd to discuss the hidden potential that diverse fund managers offer, the missing ingredient in a successful investment strategy, and what role will diversity, equity, and inclusion play in the future of institutional investing.
The 10X Capital Podcast is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: turpentine.co
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X / Twitter:
@dweisburd (David Weisburd)
@UofR (University of Rochester)
@RobRahbari (Rob Rahbari)
Questions or topics you want us to discuss on The 10X Capital Podcast? Email us at david@10xcapital.com
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TIMESTAMPS:
(0:00) Episode Preview
(3:17) Portfolio construction and generalist strategy pros and cons
(6:27) Macro factors and their impact on investments
(7:37) Real assets, fixed income, and real estate strategies
(8:52) Venture portfolio insights and GP relationship management
(11:21) Selection criteria for new managers and common pitfalls
(13:34) Addressing bias and complexity in investment strategies
(15:40) Doug Phillips' unique approach to investing
(18:13) Investing at the University of Rochester and IADEI initiative
(20:51) Embracing market cycles and diverse managers
(22:27) Closing remarks
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