Capital Allocators – Inside the Institutional Investment Industry

Kimberly Sargent, the Chief Investment Officer of the Packard Foundation, shares her wealth of experience managing a $10 billion portfolio, starting her career under legendary investor David Swensen. She discusses the unique challenges foundations face compared to endowments and her proactive approach to talent sourcing. Kim reflects on the importance of building trusted partnerships, navigating credit investments during economic uncertainty, and nurturing the next generation of finance professionals. She passionately concludes that her job offers her the best of both worlds.

Michael Carmen, Co-Head of Private Investments at Wellington Management, shares his journey from public equities to late-stage private investing. He highlights the transformation in late-stage investment dynamics and the critical role of fundamentals in evaluating companies. Carmen discusses key sectors like technology and healthcare, addressing both opportunities and risks, including the dual nature of AI. He emphasizes the power of diversification and strategic decision-making while reflecting on personal growth through embracing failure.

In this discussion, Sachin Khajuria, a seasoned private equity veteran and author of 'Two and Twenty,' faces off against Brendan Ballou, a federal prosecutor and author of 'Plunder: Private Equity’s Plan to Pillage America.' They explore the dual nature of private equity—its potential to add value versus its flaws, particularly in legal frameworks. Topics include investment durations, operational risks, and ethical concerns. Their nuanced debate reveals surprising common ground, emphasizing the need for reform to ensure accountability in this industry.

Sachin Khajuria, a former partner at Apollo and a 25-year veteran in private equity, shares insights from his book "Two and Twenty." He discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the private equity industry, emphasizing the need for transparency and education to improve public perception. Sachin dives into deal sourcing complexities and the importance of research and relationships in securing exclusive transactions. He also highlights future investment opportunities, especially in undervalued technology assets, and the role of talented teams in achieving success.

Discover how the astonishing rise of the 'Magnificent Seven' tech giants impacts active management strategies. Explore the questions of equity allocation in today's concentrated market. Delve into the intricacies of currency hedging and its effects on investment performance. Hear insights on the challenges fund managers face and the importance of clear communication in navigating these strategies. This conversation offers a thought-provoking look at modern investment practices.

Matt Breitfelder, Partner and Global Head of Human Capital at Apollo, flips the script by interviewing Ted Seides about the nuances of effective interviewing and public speaking. They delve into the importance of preparation, active listening, and crafting engaging conversations. The duo shares tips on moderating panels and presenting in public, emphasizing the art of connection and storytelling. Personal anecdotes reveal parallels between managing communication and tackling challenges like home renovations, making for a lively and insightful discussion.

Kipp deVeer is a seasoned Director and Partner at Ares Management, where he leads the Ares Credit Group and serves as CEO of Ares Capital Corporation. He shares insights into the evolution of private credit, reflecting on his two-decade journey in the sector. Kipp discusses the strategies behind Ares' significant growth, the importance of talent collaboration, and navigating the complexities of deal sourcing and underwriting. He also explores current and future opportunities in private credit amidst rising interest rates and market challenges.

Seth Klarman, a legendary value investor and CEO of The Baupost Group, shares insights from his extensive career in investments. He discusses timeless principles of value investing, delving into how his experiences shaped his approach. The conversation covers navigating market inefficiencies, the importance of illiquidity, and the complexities of international investment. Klarman also reflects on client alignment and succession planning at Baupost. He candidly shares his personal investments in the Boston Red Sox and his philanthropic endeavors.

Ravi Viswanathan, Founder and Managing Partner of NewView Capital, shares his journey from material science to venture capital. He discusses the innovative approach of venture secondaries, blending portfolio acquisitions with direct investing. Key themes include navigating downturns in the venture landscape, the importance of strong entrepreneur relationships, and strategic partnership dynamics. Ravi emphasizes the significance of operational efficiency and legacy building while reflecting on mentorship and work ethic in driving success in the investment world.

James Aitken, Founder of Aitken Advisors, shares his expertise on macroeconomic trends impacting global capital. He delves into the intertwined dynamics of fiscal and monetary policy post-COVID, spotlighting investment opportunities in the U.S. industrial sector and UK assets. Aitken warns of risks like volatility targeting and the challenges in Australia’s economy. He also discusses how technology and AI are reshaping consultancy, making insights more accessible to clients. Tune in for a rich exploration of navigating current economic uncertainties!