Capital Allocators – Inside the Institutional Investment Industry

Matt Spielman, Founder and CEO of Inflection Point Partners and an executive coach, shares valuable insights from his career journey. He discusses the transformative power of coaching, especially in finance, emphasizing the need for alignment between personal and organizational goals. The conversation delves into navigating stress in teams, embracing health through daily intentions, and redefining personal success. Packed with practical advice, Matt's reflections inspire listeners to pursue fulfillment while effectively leading high-performing teams.

Billy Libby, co-founder of Upper90, dives into the transformative world of venture funding by blending debt and equity for early-stage tech companies. He shares insights from his journey in electronic trading and the inception of Upper90, which has deployed $1 billion to disrupt conventional capital structures. The conversation touches on innovative credit underwriting, data-driven investment strategies, and the importance of building meaningful connections in business. Libby emphasizes adaptability and the value of fostering trust in career growth.

John Barber, Managing Partner of Cohesive Capital, leads a $1 billion firm specializing in private and growth equity co-investments. He shares insights from his unique investment philosophy that prioritizes teamwork and operational responsiveness. Barber discusses his unconventional career path, emphasizing the evolution of co-investing strategies and the importance of maintaining strong partner relationships. He also reflects on lessons from mentors, offering advice on avoiding trend-driven decisions and embracing patience in investment.

Larry Kochard, CIO at Makena Capital Management, shares insights from his impressive career, including roles at the University of Virginia and Georgetown University. He discusses the transition from managing endowments to leading an OCIO firm, tackling investment strategies, and the importance of team collaboration. Kochard explores emerging markets' challenges, the fine balance needed in crypto investments, and the significance of communication within teams. His perspective on market risks and opportunities provides a seasoned view for investors navigating today’s complexities.

Larry Kochard, CEO and CIO of the University of Virginia Investment Management Company, dives into the intricacies of managing an $8.5 billion investment pool. He discusses the balance between internal management and external allocations, underlining UVIMCO's five core principles that guide decision-making. Kochard shares insights from his journey through major financial institutions, revealing lessons learned about capital allocation and the importance of maintaining strong investment committee relationships. He emphasizes the necessity of discipline and diverse perspectives in achieving successful outcomes.

Sahil Bloom, a former investment banker turned creator, discusses his unique journey from private equity to launching a seed stage venture fund. He shares insightful frameworks for investing, including the importance of mentorship and setting intermediary goals. Sahil dives into the concept of engineered luck, encouraging listeners to actively create more opportunities. His thoughts on redefining mentorship in the digital age and navigating life’s paradoxes offer a fresh perspective. This dynamic conversation is packed with actionable advice for aspiring investors and creators.

In this engaging discussion, Steve Drobny, Founder and Managing Partner of Clocktower Group, shares his insights on the ever-changing global investment landscape. He challenges traditional endowment models and emphasizes the importance of macro perspectives in capital allocation. The conversation delves into the shifting dynamics in geopolitics, particularly regarding China, and highlights the booming fintech sector in Latin America. Additionally, Drobny underscores the growing significance of climate sustainability and ESG initiatives in today's investment strategies.

Greg Dowling, CIO and Head of Research at Fund Evaluation Group, dives into the evolving world of mid-market institutional consulting with insights from his rich background. He explains FEG's unique employee-owned structure and its approach to portfolio management and manager selection. The conversation features discussions on current market dynamics, touching on private equity and venture capital opportunities. Greg also shares his passion for community engagement through a charity hockey event that brings together investment professionals.

Louis-Vincent Gave, Founding Partner and CEO of GaveKal, dives into the complex fallout of sanctions stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He dissects how freezing financial assets and shifting energy dynamics influence global economies, particularly China. Gave elaborates on investment strategies in a tightening monetary climate and the need for diversified asset management. He also shares insights on the evolving geopolitical implications, especially regarding Taiwan and the historical context shaping these decisions.

Andrew Milgram, Managing Partner and CIO of Marblegate Asset Management, shares his journey in distressed investing with insights from his firm, which focuses on middle-market opportunities. He delves into the intricacies of valuation, sourcing, and due diligence, enriching the discussion with examples from Education Management Corporation and New York Taxi medallions. Milgram also reflects on the state of distressed investing today and the ethical considerations essential for balancing financial returns with responsible practices.