

Alt Funds Network
Mike Schroeder
The Alt Funds Investment podcast explores those making investments in the alternative asset landscape, as well as the vendors who service these funds. We provide resources for emerging managers and insights for those in the alternative fund space.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 19, 2023 • 44min
Exploring the World of Crypto Fund of Funds - Carl Szantyr - Blockstone Capital
Find us online: https://altfunds.io/Email us with topic ideas: info@altfunds.ioSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hmRIlxXPlw5xi7sTp1g0r?si=2047a7ddd14c4431Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alt-funds-network/id1662025628 Carl's Twitter: https://twitter.com/carlszantyrCarl's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlszantyr/Email Carl: carl@blockstonecapital.io Key Topics:Fund of Funds (FoF) in Cryptocurrency:A FoF invests in multiple other funds rather than directly in stocks, bonds, or other securities. The podcast delves into the structure, benefits, and operation of crypto-focused funds of funds.Investment Strategies:Discussion revolves around the different strategies fund managers employ in the crypto market, from value investing to market-neutral approaches, emphasizing the significance of active management in generating returns.Challenges in Crypto Investments:Insights are shared on the hurdles and intricacies of crypto investing, including regulatory matters, liquidity concerns, and market volatility. The narrative suggests that while crypto offers high returns, it's not without its complexities.Process of making investments in underlying funds:Due diligence process, analysis of historical returns, red flags and more.Educating Investors and Fund Managers:Emphasis is placed on the crucial role of education in the crypto space. Both investors and fund managers benefit from understanding traditional finance principles, strategies, and standards to effectively navigate the crypto ecosystem.Shifts in Market Strategy:The episode touches on the adaptability required by fund managers, indicating that market shifts and external factors can necessitate changes in investment tactics and portfolio rebalancing.Challenges and Excitement in Current Market:Insights are provided on the dual nature of the current market - the challenges faced by fund managers in raising capital and the optimism for future growth, driven by potential market dynamics and investment trends. Disclaimer:Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting or investment advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, accounting, and investment professionals before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Sep 4, 2023 • 35min
SEC Private Fund Rule Changes & Alternative Investments in Pension Funds
Find us online: https://altfunds.io/Email us with topic ideas: info@altfunds.ioSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hmRIlxXPlw5xi7sTp1g0r?si=2047a7ddd14c4431Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alt-funds-network/id1662025628 Alternatives Watch: https://www.alternativeswatch.com/Susan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-barreto-she-her-a4b1465/ Disclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting or investment advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, accounting, and investment professionals before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Aug 31, 2023 • 45min
Deep learning and Quantitative Trading
Find us online: https://altfunds.io/Email us with topic ideas: info@altfunds.ioSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hmRIlxXPlw5xi7sTp1g0r?si=2047a7ddd14c4431Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alt-funds-network/id1662025628 Roseta Analytics LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rosetta-analytics-inc/Julia Bonafede LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliabonafede/Publications: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rosetta-analytics-inc/ Key Topics:Quantitative Models:-Limitations of traditional models, like linear regression.-Evolution and integration with AI technologies.Deep Learning & Neural Networks:-Advantages over traditional models, especially in handling non-linear data.-Role in enhancing predictions and strategy formulation.Skilled Developers:-The significance of expertise in developing robust and efficient AI models.-Addressing potential issues like overfitting and bias.Data Management:-Sourcing reliable and accurate market data.-Ensuring consistent data quality and relevance.Intervention in AI Models:-Deciding when to intervene or halt a model.-Identifying signs of model underperformance or divergence from expected outcomes.Human Judgment vs. Automation:-The balance between automated predictions and human decision-making.-Understanding when to rely on which.Model Interpretation:-Emphasizing the need to understand and interpret model outputs correctly.-Adapting strategies based on insights and market dynamics. Disclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting or investment advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, accounting, and investment professionals before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Aug 10, 2023 • 35min
How to Market a Private Fund Properly
Find us online: https://altfunds.io/Email us with topic ideas: info@altfunds.ioSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hmRIlxXPlw5xi7sTp1g0r?si=2047a7ddd14c4431Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alt-funds-network/id1662025628Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsnetwork Connect with Jen on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhicks20/ Key Topics:Introduction to Jennifer Hicks (Jen) and her Background:Set to start a new role as the Director of Partnerships for DRA, which supports female entrepreneurs. Previously was the director of client development at Capital Fund Law Group. Rules and Regulations Surrounding Marketing Investment Vehicles:Under 506b, marketers need a pre-existing relationship with potential investors and cannot solicit to unknown individuals. 506c doesn't require a pre-existing relationship, but marketers need to understand the potential investor's background, including investment experience. Legal counsel is essential to ensure compliance with marketing rules and regulations. Incubator Funds as an Approach:This method allows fund managers to develop and showcase their fund track records, helping to demonstrate their capabilities and attract investors. Important Aspects of Marketing and Advertising as a Fund Manager:Caution is advised when discussing specifics about securities, investment strategies, or performance on platforms like podcasts or other media.Words like "trust" and "confidence" can be problematic and interpreted as guarantees, which can lead to legal issues. Compliance with the SEC's marketing rules is crucial even for emerging managers. Recommendations for Fund Managers:Ensuring the alignment between offering documents and communicated strategies. The importance of ongoing review and compliance, not just at the setup phase. Engage with third-party providers that understand the unique needs and challenges of emerging managers. Disclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting or investment advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, accounting, and investment professionals before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Jul 27, 2023 • 39min
SEC vs Ripple - The Impact on Digital Assets and the Fund Industry
Find us online: https://altfunds.io/Email us with topic ideas: info@altfunds.ioSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hmRIlxXPlw5xi7sTp1g0r?si=2047a7ddd14c4431Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alt-funds-network/id1662025628 Connect with Tony:Twitter handle: @Tony_Wise_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonymwise/Firm Website: https://colefrieman.com/team/anthony-wise/ Chapters:IntroductionOverview of the Ripple CaseThe Howey Test and It's Application to RippleConcept or Programmatic SalesDiscussion on the Possibility of SEC AppealPractical Advice for Fund ManagersThe Future of Crypto Regulation in the United States HIGHLIGHTS:- Tony's insights on the SEC lawsuit against Ripple and the implications for digital asset regulation.- In-depth explanation of the Howey test and its role in the Ripple case.- Discussion on 'programmatic sales' and its application to the Ripple case.- Evaluation of the possibility of an SEC appeal against the Ripple case verdict.- Practical advice for fund managers regarding the potential for tokens to be deemed as securities.- Critique of the SEC's 'regulation through enforcement' strategy.- Insights into the future of crypto regulation in the United States Disclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting or investment advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, accounting, and investment professionals before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Jul 19, 2023 • 52min
Globe 3 Capital: Perspectives on Running a Crypto Fund and Embracing the Digital Asset Ecosystem
Find us online: https://altfunds.io/Email us with topic ideas: info@altfunds.ioSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hmRIlxXPlw5xi7sTp1g0r?si=2047a7ddd14c4431Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alt-funds-network/id1662025628Globe 3 Capital Website: https://globe3capital.com/Globe 3 Capital LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/globe3capital/ Chapters:Introduction to Globe 3 CapitalImportance of Custody and SecurityGrowing Market Cap and Token ExpansionSelf-Custody and TrustShakeups in the Custody Provider SpaceThe Intersection of Traditional Finance and CryptoThe Future of Blockchain and CryptoThe Role of AI in CryptoAdvice for New Fund Managers Highlights:Discover the significance of custody solutions and the ongoing evaluation of custodians to safeguard investors' funds.Explore the expanding landscape of custodians, their token offerings, and the potential for greater market cap.Gain insights into the shift towards self-custody and the importance of personal accountability in the crypto space.Understand the challenges and risks associated with custody providers and the need for careful evaluation.Learn about the growing interest and involvement of traditional financial institutions in the crypto space.Explore the potential impact of blockchain technology across various industries.Discuss the role of AI in the crypto space and its limitations in decision-making processes.Get valuable advice for new fund managers, including the importance of finding the right partner and staying ahead of emerging technologies.Join the conversation with Jeff Embry and Matt Lason as they provide valuable insights into the crypto industry and share their expertise on navigating this evolving landscape.

Jul 18, 2023 • 25min
What is Web3 Identity? Web3 Identity Explained -Lisa Fridman | Quadrata
►►► Subscribe Here https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsInvestmentPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 for new and exciting episodes of the Alt Funds Podcast! In this video, Lisa Fridman from Quadrata, introduces the concept of Web3 Identity, and explain the benefits of bringing the identity and compliance layer to DeFi across existing public blockchains.▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬CONNECT WITH THE ALT FUNDS NETWORKSubscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsInvestmentPodcast?sub_confirmation=1Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/altfunds/Contact ► info@altfunds.io▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬CONNECT WITH EPISODE GUEST- LISA FRIDMAN (QUADRATA)Linkedin Profile ► https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisafridman/Email ►contact@quadra.comWebsite ► https://quadrata.com/ Quadrata helps Web3 businesses "know their customer." All while protecting a user's privacy and creating a seamless onboarding experience for both businesses and customers alike.▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 00:00 Introduction01:30 What issues currently exist within DeFi03:09 What is Web3 Identity?06:27 The founding of Quadrata07:30 What is the feedback from institutions10:23 What is an AML Risk score and how is it calculated11:52 Who is Web3 Identity Built for14:11 How does one get a Web3 Identity16:55 How do digital wallets interact18:23 The challenges that lie ahead for Web3 Identity22:50 Closing thoughts and where to connect with Lisa & Quadrata #web3 #alternativeinvestments #digitalassets #defi #blockchain #digitalwallet#crypto #cryptocurrency #complianceweb3,web3 identity, defi, decentralized finance, quadrata, digital wallet, aml risk assessment, crypto, what is web3,web3 crypto,web3 explained,web3 crypto projects, cryptocurrency, crypto news, crypto compliance, blockchain, cryptocurrency compliance, aml compliance, regulation, crypto aml, what is web3 explained, web 3.0 blockchain, public blockchain, blockchain technology, kyc aml, know your customer, kyc, whats web3, bitcoin, ethereum, Lisa Fridman, Michael Schroeder, Skyler Steinke Disclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Mar 14, 2023 • 59min
Crypto Token Cap Tables Explained - Bruno Faviero | Magna
In this video, Bruno Faviero from Magna will explain how to manage cap tables and distribute tokens. If you're interested in understanding how to build and manage token cap tables, then this video is for you! Bruno will walk you through the different aspects of token distribution, and explain the different strategies you can use to manage your cap table. After watching this video, you'll have a better understanding of how to value alternative investments and be able to choose the right valuation agent for your situation. Thanks for watching! ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ CONNECT WITH THE ALT FUNDS NETWORK Subscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsInvestmentPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/altfunds/ Contact ► info@altfunds.io ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ CONNECT WITH EPISODE GUEST- BRUNO FAVIERO (MAGNA) Linkedin Profile ► https://www.linkedin.com/in/faviero/ Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/magnatokens/ Magna is building a platform to turn DeFi investments into financial primitives. Their first product is Carta for Web3, where companies can manage their cap tables and distribute their token equity to employees, advisors, or investors. We're also building crypto-native tools for fund managers. Website: Magna.so Twitter: @bfaviero ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 00:00 intro 00:43 The Founding of Magna 03:36 What problem is Magna solving 06:49 What is the difference between equity vs Token Cap Tables 11:03 Significance of a third-party Cap Table provider 15:08 Creating and distributing a token 17:33 How do companies track ownership and how does it change after using a Third-Party Cap Table Service 20:54 What happens after a token vests 23:24 What is the advantage of a token vs equity 26:15 Problems that tokens can solve 27:45 Common mistakes made by founders 30:51 Creating a wallet for new tokens 37:17 Best practices for distributing a new token 39:37 Types of tokens coming to the market 42:22 How are funds interacting with Tokens and Equities 50:24 Working with Fund Administrators and other fund service providers 51:42 83B Tax Filing for employees 53:20 Raising Capital in todays market 58:12 Where to connect with Bruno and Magna Disclaimer- Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Mar 3, 2023 • 29min
Unlocking the Keys to Digital Asset Custody for Institutions
In this video, we're going to discuss digital asset custody for institutions. We'll cover cold storage, hot storage, and third-party custody, as well as self-custody. If you work for an institution and you're wondering what kind of digital asset custody to choose, then this video is for you. We'll help you understand the different options and help you decide which is best for your organization. After watching this video, you'll be able to make an informed decision about digital asset custody for your firm or investment fund! 00:00 Intro00:31 Services offered by Ledger01:41 What does it mean to Custody an asset02:49 What are the Different Custody options for Institutions and Individuals06:00 What is the difference between Cold Storage and Hot Storage for digital assets06:40 How to move tokens from cold storage07:49 What is hot storage for digital assets09:24 What is the different between Third-Party Custody and Self-custody11:27 What is the difference between a hardware wallet and a digital wallet14:53 What happens if you lose your hardware wallet15:43 What is the risk of leaving tokens on an exchange18:59 What type of questions should LP's be asking22:12 What should investors be thinking about when it comes to governance for digital asset custody25:27 What should investment managers consider when securing digital assets28:03 Where to go to connect with Antoine and learn more about Ledger ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬CONNECT WITH THE ALT FUNDS NETWORKSubscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsInve...Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/altf...Contact ► info@altfunds.io▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬CONNECT WITH EPISODE GUEST- ANTOINE HELLO (Ledger)Linkedin Profile ► https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoine-h...Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/ledg...▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬digital asset custodian, digital asset custody, crypto cold storage wallet, crypto cold storage, cold storage wallet, hot storage, self-custody, bitcoin self-custody, hardware wallet, crypto, Ledger, third party custodian, bitcoin, regulated custodian, nasdaq crypto custody, bitcoin custody, bny mellon, crypto custody, crypto custody solutions, qualified custodian, blockchain, ethereum, bitcoin news, crypto news today#digitalassets #alternativeinvestments #digitalassetcustody #custodian #hedgefunds #investmentmanagement #cryptofund #vc #finance #funds #digitalassetmanagement #digitalassetinvestorDisclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.

Feb 28, 2023 • 27min
How to Value Digital Assets and Alternative Investments
►►► Subscribe Here https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsInvestmentPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 for new and exciting episodes of the Alt Funds Podcast!If you're interested in valuing crypto, token, NFT's, digital assets and alternative investments in an investment fund structure; then you should watch this video! In it, Joe Brennan with Houlihan Capital shares with you the basics of how to value alternative investments in a fund including digital assets, NFT's and underlying company valuation, as well as some tips on how to choose the right valuation agent for a new investment manager and their fund.After watching this video, you'll have a better understanding of how to value alternative investments and be able to choose the right valuation agent for your situation. Thanks for watching! Timestamps00:00 Intro00:18 Services offered by Houlihan Capital1:14 What exactly are valuation services2:44 What type of assets require valuation services3:38 How do you value a company5:00 How do you value digital assets7:28 What are level I, level II and level III assets10:16 How do investment managers value digital assets12:20 How to value NFTs15:20 FASB 2022-03 Fairvalue, Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject toContractual Sale Restrictions. Read about FASB's Accounting standard update here: (https://fasb.org/document/blob?fileName=ASU%202022-03.pdf)18:49 Implications of 2022-03, Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to Contractual Sale Restrictions.22:02 How the Put Option Pricing Model works24:10 How a Valuation Agent works with Fund Administrators, Fund Auditors and other service providers25:40 Advice for a New Investment Manager26:50 Where to go to Connect With Joe Brennan and Houlihan Capital ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬CONNECT WITH THE ALT FUNDS NETWORKSubscribe ► https://www.youtube.com/@AltFundsInvestmentPodcast?sub_confirmation=1Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/altfunds/Contact ► info@altfunds.io▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬CONNECT WITH EPISODE GUEST- JOE BRENNAN (HOULIHAN CAPITAL)Email ► jbrennan@houlihancapital.comLinkedin Profile ► https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-brennan-94919724/Linkedin Company Page ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/houlihan-capital/▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬digital asset valuation, cryptocurrency, digital assets, bitcoin, ethereum,crypto asset, alternative investments, investing, houlihan capital, valuation services, equity securities, fair value, crypto, hedge fund manager, vc fund structure, nft value, option pricing model, fund administrator, fund auditor, prime brokerage crypto, crypto exchange, fund custodian, gap accounting principal, private investments, illiquid assets, token valuation. Disclaimer-Alt Funds Network LLC and and its affiliates, episode guests, and the companies they represent do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction or making any financial or legal decision based on your specific situation.