Dan Feder

Dan Feder, Senior Managing Director at the University of Michigan Investment Office, shares his expertise in venture capital and private equity. He discusses the intricacies of endowment portfolio construction and the balance between risk and return. Feder delves into the importance of incentive structures in limited partnerships and shares insights on backing conflicting strategies. Plus, he emphasizes the significance of selecting the right fund managers and the impact of herd mentality in investment decisions.

Dan Feder, Senior Managing Director of Investments at the University of Michigan’s $18 billion endowment, shares insights on venture capital and asset allocation. He emphasizes the need for institutional investors to rethink their strategies and distinguishes between risk and uncertainty. Dan recalls his unique experience racing Lance Armstrong, drawing parallels to investment preparation. He explains the evolution of venture since 2000, the trend of roll-ups in services, and offers key advice for fund managers to attract LPs, highlighting the importance of relevance and independent thinking.

Dan Feder, a limited partner at Offline and Slow Ventures and associated with the University of Michigan, joins the hosts for a lively discussion. They dive into Meta's recent hardware innovations, including Ray-Ban glasses and Quest VR devices. The conversation shifts to venture capital strategies, likening investment to fishing, and the challenges of navigating private market inefficiencies. They also explore Japan's unique tech landscape, contrasting its collectivist culture with the individualistic spirit of American entrepreneurship, highlighting valuable lessons for both sides.