Peter Fenton

Peter Fenton is a General Partner at Benchmark, with a stellar two-decade track record in tech investing. Victor Lazarte, also a General Partner, previously built Wildlife Studios into a mobile gaming giant. They discuss the critical role of shared purpose in partnerships, the unique culture of Benchmark, and their transition from builders to investors. Insights on navigating the evolving tech entrepreneurship landscape reveal the importance of genuine relationships, mental health, and the creative interplay between technology and gaming innovations.

In this insightful discussion, Peter Fenton, the longest-serving partner at Benchmark, shares his expertise as a leading tech investor. He delves into the Darwinian principles that shape Silicon Valley, drawing parallels with AI's transformative role in business. Peter emphasizes the importance of embracing non-scalable approaches and reveals strategies for sourcing top-notch investments. He also discusses the nuances of being an effective board member, underlining the significance of strong relationships and community in fostering innovation.

Join Peter Fenton, Sarah Tavel, Chatham Williams, and Eric Vishria from Benchmark for a captivating discussion. They share insights on their unique investment strategies, the significance of informal dinners in fostering partnership culture, and the emotional complexities of venture decision-making. The team delves into what it takes to become a Benchmark GP and why there's no growth fund, along with their supportive ethos towards entrepreneurs. Listen to their humorous takes on family dynamics and the evolving landscape of venture capital!

Peter Fenton, veteran VC known for Twitter and Elastic; Eric Vishria, investor behind Confluent and Amplitude; Chetan Puttagunta, early-stage specialist with MuleSoft and Elastic wins; Ev Randle, recent partner with prior Kleiner Perkins and Founders Fund experience. They discuss why staying small matters, equal-partnership dynamics, founder-first decision making, candid board relationships, and why that model suits fast-changing AI-era startups.

Peter Fenton, General Partner at Benchmark, discusses his impressive track record in venture capital, including investments in notable firms like New Relic. He shares how a casual golf game sparked New Relic's Series A investment, illustrating the importance of trust in startup relationships. Fenton dives into the nuances of market timing and the concept of 'unlocking consumption' in today's investment landscape. Lastly, he reflects on the positive aspects of capital oversupply and how it can enhance innovation and collaboration within the venture ecosystem.