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MicroCapClub

Latest episodes

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Jan 11, 2025 • 47min

Kingsway Financial Services: Revolutionizing the Search Fund Model

Sean Iddings joins full-time private investor Mark Vonderwell, to have a conversation with CEO J. T. Fitzgerald and CFO Kent Hansen of Kingsway Financial Services (KFS). This MicroCap Business Breakdowns discussion took place live on January 9th, 2024, on the MicroCapClub Community. https://microcapclub.com/join-now/ About Kingsway Financial Services: Kingsway Financial Service’s base business offering warranties for automobiles and HVAC systems generates the cash for their fledgling search funds business. Under Kingsway’s Search Xcelerator program, new business school graduates, using Kingsway’s capital leveraged with bank loans, purchase very small private companies from retiring founders and become the chief executive officers. While Kingsway owns the businesses, the “operators in residence” are compensated based highly on the acquired business performance. To date, Kingsway has had five operators-in-residence acquire six companies. Currently four more business school graduates are searching for an acquisition, with a goal to add two or three companies each year. J.T. Fitzgerald became Kingsway’s CEO in September 2018 after joining the company when the private firm that he founded to invest in search funds, Argo Investment Management, was acquired by Kingsway in 2016. According to a Stanford Business School study, search funds have historically produced a 30%+ average return, albeit mostly middling returns aided by a small percentage of extraordinary winners. Fitzgerald hopes to improve on the historical success rate by aiding young operators in residence both in acquiring and operating companies with the counsel of experienced businessmen. An advisory board formed in 2022 includes Will Thorndike, an experienced search fund investor and author of the 2012 book titled “The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success” and retired, phenomenally successful Danaher ceo Thomas Joyce. Further boosting returns, Kingsway’s search acquisitions are shielded from taxation by over $700 million in tax net-operating loss carryforwards created by their shut down casualty insurance operations. Kingsway attracts potential operators in residence by providing capital and credibility, helping with legal contracts, and sharing a successful operating framework derived from Fitzgerald’s prior experience with the Danaher Business System. https://kingsway-financial.com MicroCap Business Breakdowns (MCBB), powered by MicroCapClub, is a monthly program where we invite leaders of unique microcap businesses to have in depth conversations with the MicroCapClub member/investor that knows the business best. In each conversation we look to drill down into the history, business, strategy, vision, and bull/bear case. The MicroCapClub community can tune in live and ask questions. We publicize each episode 1-2 weeks after the live discussion. https://microcapclub.com  Disclaimer: The purpose of this presentation is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation to purchase or sell any security. MicroCapClub is not a registered investment advisor. MicroCapClub, its partners, members, subscribers, and affiliates may or may not hold positions in one or more of the securities mentioned on this program and may trade in such securities at any time. Do your own due diligence and seek counsel from a registered investment advisor before trading in any security.
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Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 24min

A Conversation with Michael Melby of Gate City Capital Management

Michael Melby, founder of Gate City Capital Management, shares his journey from a small Montana town to successful microcap investing. He discusses the principles of deep value investing and the significance of understanding management teams beyond just numbers. Melby emphasizes the importance of rigorous financial analysis and personal relationships with investors. He also reveals how company visits impact investment decisions and the evolving strategies his team adopts, blending qualitative and quantitative insights for long-term success.
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Dec 10, 2024 • 1h 6min

A Conversation with Harris Perlman

Harris Perlman is a private full-time investor focused mainly on microcap stocks. During this conversation we talk about a wide variety of topics. Join MicroCapClub and unlock the ability to listen and participate live in these discussions. https://microcapclub.com/join-now/ About Harris Perlman: MicroCapClub: @Harris Perlman – Member since 2014 X: https://x.com/OtterMarket About MicroCapClub MicroCapClub is an exclusive forum for experienced microcap investors focused on microcap companies (sub $500m market cap) trading on United States, Canadian, European, and Australian markets. MicroCapClub was created to be a platform for experienced microcap investors to share and discuss stock ideas. Since 2011, our members have profiled 1200+ microcap companies. Investors can join our community by applying to become a member or subscribing to gain instant view only access. MicroCapClub’s mission is to foster the highest quality microcap investor Community, produce Educational content for investors, and promote better Leadership in the microcap arena. For more information: https://microcapclub.com Chapters 00:08 Disclaimer 01:03 Intro & Harris’s Background 02:00 Current Market Environment 04:45 Investing Philosophy And Strategy 13:04 Early Investment Wins 17:57 Harris’s Path to Full-Time Investing 22:34 Navigating Challenges And Stress 25:32 Investment Style And Core Portfolio 29:06 Collaboration And Networking In Investing 42:10 Typical Day 48:06 Thoughts on Managing Outside Capital 52:00 Communication Style 56:36 Learning Accounting And Competitive Analysis 59:18 Audience Q&A 01:05:40 Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks Disclaimer: All content on this channel is for discussion, education, entertainment, and illustrative purposes only and SHOULD NOT be construed as professional financial advice, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any securities, notwithstanding anything stated on this channel. There are risks associated with investing in securities. Loss of principal is possible. Past performance is not a predictor of future investment performance. Ian Cassel and the guests on this channel are not responsible for investment actions taken by viewers. Should you need such advice, consult a licensed financial advisor, legal advisor, or tax advisor. You agree to verify all information yourself before investing. Any past performance discussed during this program is no guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital; please seek advice from a licensed professional. All views expressed are personal opinions as of the date of recording and are subject to change without the responsibility to update views. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of the information on this channel. Releasees undertake no obligation to provide accurate or sound investment statements. You waive any and all duties that may exist flowing from you to any Releasee. You agree not to hold any Releasee liable for any possible claim for damages arising from any decision you make based on information or other content on the Channel.
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Dec 5, 2024 • 59min

Research Solutions: The Bloomberg of Scientific Research

Roy Olivier, President and CEO of Research Solutions, and CFO Bill Nerth join the conversation to discuss groundbreaking advancements in scientific research. They delve into the integration of AI to simplify research workflows, highlighting the transformative effects of their product, Article Galaxy. The duo also shares strategies for customer retention and reducing churn, emphasizing the importance of enhanced onboarding processes. They outline plans for future acquisitions and growth metrics, all while navigating the dynamic landscape of scientific publishing.
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Nov 21, 2024 • 56min

Haypp Group - The Market Leader in Nicotine Pouches

Gavin O'Dowd, CEO of Haypp Group AB, a trailblazer in the nicotine pouch market, shares his insights on the industry's rapid growth. He discusses the shift from traditional products to healthier alternatives and highlights Haypp's strategic focus on organic growth and efficient logistics. The conversation delves into consumer data collection, regulatory challenges, and the innovative use of automation in warehousing. O'Dowd emphasizes the importance of direct partnerships and adaptability in navigating market disruptions and evolving consumer preferences.
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Oct 29, 2024 • 1h 21min

A Conversation with Grant Williams

In a captivating discussion, Grant Williams, an accomplished writer and speaker known for his sharp insights into global finance, shares his journey from trading to writing. He reflects on how early career experiences shape investment strategies and emphasizes the balance between luck and skill. Expect thoughts on navigating market volatility and the challenges of political discourse in investing. Grant also delves into the art of authentic conversation and the importance of community learning in finance.
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Oct 10, 2024 • 55min

DIRTT Environmental Solutions: The Global Leader in Industrialized Construction

In this engaging discussion, Benjamin Urban, CEO of DIRTT Environmental Solutions, shares insights into revolutionizing industrialized construction. He highlights DIRTT's innovative ICE software, which customizes high-performance spaces for Fortune 500 companies. Urban delves into the company's transformation post-COVID, focusing on efficiency and market expansion. He also discusses the integration of technology in manufacturing, enhancing profitability, and strategic growth initiatives that emphasize sustainability and adaptability.
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Sep 29, 2024 • 1h

Kelly Partners Group - The Buy and Build Leaders in Accounting Services

Adam Wilk joins Aakash Vanchi Nath of P&R Investment Management Limited to have a conversation with CEO Brett Kelly and CFO Kenneth Ko of Kelly Partners Group (KPG.AX / KPGHF). This MicroCap Business Breakdowns discussion aired on September 26th on the MicroCapClub Community. https://microcapclub.com/join-now/ Kelly Partners Group provides accounting services for small and medium businesses. KPG has a buy and build strategy of acquiring accounting firms in Australia and the US and are planning to expand their playbook to new geographies. The have compounded revenues above 20% for over 15 years. Founder and CEO, Brett Kelly is key to the business and owns 49%. Brett will continue to apply the KPG acquisition and business improvement playbook to a fragmented accounting market. This should enable KPG to continue to compound capital at high rates of return for a long period of time. https://www.kellypartnersgroup.com.au/ About Aakash Vanchi Nath  MicroCapClub: @Aakash Vanchi Nath LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aakash-vanchi-nath-9a41788/ Firm: https://www.pr-realvalue.com About Adam Wilk Founder of Greystone Capital Management MicroCapClub: @Greystone Capital Management X: https://x.com/AKWilk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-wilk-64791a139/ Firm Website: https://www.greystonevalue.com MicroCap Business Breakdowns (MCBB), powered by MicroCapClub, is a monthly program where we invite leaders of unique microcap businesses to have in depth conversations with the MicroCapClub member/investor that knows the business best. In each conversation we look to drill down into the history, business, strategy, vision, and bull/bear case. The MicroCapClub community can tune in live and ask questions. We publicize each episode 1-2 weeks after the live discussion. https://microcapclub.com Disclaimer: The purpose of this presentation is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation to purchase or sell any security. MicroCapClub is not a registered investment advisor. MicroCapClub, its partners, members, subscribers, and affiliates may or may not hold positions in one or more of the securities mentioned on this program and may trade in such securities at any time. Do your own due diligence and seek counsel from a registered investment advisor before trading in any security.
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Sep 24, 2024 • 1h 16min

A Conversation with Jason Hirschman

In this engaging talk, Jason Hirschman, a seasoned private investor at Hudson 215 Capital, shares his journey from small business owner to managing a nine-figure portfolio. He dives into the intricacies of microcap investing, emphasizing the significance of management relationships and qualitative research. Hirschman contrasts European and American management styles, shedding light on cultural influences in corporate governance. He also discusses the emotional challenges of investing and the crucial balance between holding and selling stocks.
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Aug 31, 2024 • 60min

Quest Resource Holding Corporation (QRHC)

Adam Wilk joins Greg Kitt and Jordan Salim from the Pinnacle Family Office to have a conversation with CEO Ray Hatch of Quest Resource Holding Corporation (QRHC). This MicroCap Business Breakdowns discussion aired on August 22nd on the MicroCapClub Community. https://microcapclub.com/join-now/ Quest Resource Holding Corp (QRHC) is an asset-light waste and recycling services provider benefitting from increased interest to divert waste away from the landfill because of external regulatory drivers and internal ESG mandates. Quest boasts long standing relationships with a diversified base of blue chip customers, and provides data and reporting to customers to meet internal ESG and regulatory requirements. QRHC diverts 80% of waste away from the landfill by recovering the salvage value for these commodities, meaning customers benefit from increased landfill diversion, reduced operational complexity, and modest cost savings. Quest’s waste hauler partners gain access to large volume waste generator customers that they could not otherwise win. These waste haulers benefit from high margin incremental volume and offer Quest attractive pricing in exchange for these large, dependable customers. Quest’s business has true flywheel effects. Quest’s unit economics improve with scale because Quest can effectively reduce service costs to its customers, which drives incremental business, creating the flywheel. Scale drives network effects that improve QRHC’s value proposition to customers and haulers. www.qrhc.com About Greg Kitt MicroCapClub: @porge LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkitt/ About Jordan Salim MicroCapClub: @Jordan Salim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordansalim/ About Adam Wilk Founder of Greystone Capital Management MicroCapClub: @Greystone Capital Management X: https://x.com/AKWilk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-wilk-64791a139/ Firm Website: https://www.greystonevalue.com MicroCap Business Breakdowns (MCBB), powered by MicroCapClub, is a monthly program where we invite leaders of unique microcap businesses to have in depth conversations with the MicroCapClub member/investor that knows the business best. In each conversation we look to drill down into the history, business, strategy, vision, and bull/bear case. The MicroCapClub community can tune in live and ask questions. We publicize each episode 1-2 weeks after the live discussion. https://microcapclub.com Disclaimer: The purpose of this presentation is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation to purchase or sell any security. MicroCapClub is not a registered investment advisor. MicroCapClub, its partners, members, subscribers, and affiliates may or may not hold positions in one or more of the securities mentioned on this program and may trade in such securities at any time. Do your own due diligence and seek counsel from a registered investment advisor before trading in any security.

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