Episode Summary:Having a clear investment thesis helps you make better decisions, improve your deal flow, and maximise your returns. Cheryl and Maxine break down exactly what an investment thesis is, why it matters, and how to structure one that fits your risk appetite, interests, and long-term goals.They explore the core elements of an investment thesis, including industry focus, stage, business model, and geography. Plus, they highlight key company criteria investors should consider, from strong founding teams and large market opportunities to traction and defensibility.Beyond just what to invest in, this episode also covers how to stand out as an investor, build a strong value proposition, and get access to the best deals. They wrap up with an essential discussion on portfolio construction, time horizons, and risk management, so you don’t run out of money before your portfolio has a chance to deliver returns.If you're looking to sharpen your investing strategy and back better startups with confidence, this episode is a must-listen.Key Takeaways:00:00 – Introduction: Why your investment thesis matters01:49 – Defining an investment thesis: What it is & why it's essential04:49 – How to break down your thesis into clear categories05:16 – Industry focus: Verticals, horizontals, and emerging trends07:05 – Stage focus: Pre-seed, seed, growth—how to pick your sweet spot08:24 – Business model focus: B2B SaaS, marketplaces, and beyond10:01 – Geography: The pros and cons of investing locally vs globally14:29 – Key questions every investor should ask themselves17:24 – Company-specific criteria: How to create your investment checklist22:33 – Evaluating market size and growth potential25:39 – Pain vs pleasure: Investing in painful problems vs unmet desires29:54 – Unique or niche theses: Second-time founders, alumni networks, and more33:46 – Access and deal flow: How to attract great opportunities38:35 – Understanding your personal risk profile & timeline expectationsResourcesAngel Academy – Comprehensive angel investing course for Australia & NZ: www.venture.academyAussie Angels – Cheryl’s platform for angel investing https://www.aussieangels.com/Co-Ventures – Maxine’s venture capital firm https://www.coventures.vc/Sponsors:First Cheque is supported by our wonderful sponsors:Vanta automates up to 90% compliance, getting you audit-ready quickly and saving you up to 85% of associated costs. Join 10,000 global companies like Cipherstash, Handle and Indebted that use Vanta to build trust and prove security in real-time. Get 10% off http://dayone.fm/vanta/chequeRocking Horse: Rocking Horse helps startups access their R&D tax rebate early. Get up to $3M in non-dilutive finance, solve cash flow challenges, and accelerate growth. Easy application, fast approval. Smart investment for innovative startups. https://dayone.fm/rockinghorseGalah Cyber: Galah Cyber are perfect for founder-lead and SAAS businesses. Galah provides advice, education, and training. Get in touch with Galah Cyber for a complimentary call to make sure you’re secured.https://dayone.fm/galah The Day One NetworkFirst Cheque is part of Day One, the podcast network dedicated to founders, operators & investors.To learn more, join our newsletter to be notified of new and upcoming shows. The only content we create is content that will help Australian founders.If you want to learn about upcoming guests and when a new First Cheque episode is available, join the First Cheque newsletter. Mentioned in this episode:Angel Academy - Best online angel investing course in Australia and New ZealandDon't forget to check out the best online angel investing course in Australia and New Zealand, Angel Academy. It's fun, engaging, and packed full of insights from experienced investors to help you get started or level up your angel investing, visit www.venture.academy February 2025 - Angels AcademyNovember 2024 - Galah CyberJune 2024 – Vanta First ChequeNovember 2024 - Rocking HorseNovember 2024 - Galah CyberThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrpSpotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/