Capital Allocators – Inside the Institutional Investment Industry

In this engaging conversation, Satya Patel, Partner and Co-Founder of Homebrew, shares insights on venture capital's evolving landscape. He discusses the firm’s hands-on approach to early-stage investments and how trust-building is crucial for founders. Satya also emphasizes the importance of diversity in venture capital through the Screen Door initiative, aimed at empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs. Additionally, he reflects on the lessons learned from his journey and the significance of authenticity in business.

Savneet Singh, President and CEO of PAR Technology and Partner at CoVenture, shares his unique journey blending Wall Street finance with software entrepreneurship. He discusses how PAR transforms the restaurant industry through innovative software solutions. The conversation dives into his strategies for cultivating a strong company culture and navigating capital allocations. Savneet also reflects on his evolution from operator to investor, offering insights on the role of mentorship and the practical applications of cryptocurrencies in the tech landscape.

Rashmi Kwatra, Founder and CIO of Sixteenth Street Capital, delves into the dynamic investment landscape of South and Southeast Asia. She shares insights on transitioning from China to India, emphasizing due diligence and strong partnerships. Growing up in a Thai Indian family shaped her unique approach, particularly as a woman in finance. The conversation also touches on long-term investment strategies, balancing growth with valuation discipline, and her emerging passion for tennis as a metaphor for dedication and learning.

Paula Volent, the dynamic Chief Investment Officer for Rockefeller University, previously managed Bowdoin College’s endowment, skyrocketing it from $450 million to $2 billion. In this conversation, she shares her unique transition from art conservation to finance and discusses her innovative investment strategies. Paula dives into emerging opportunities in fields like biotech and cryptocurrency while emphasizing the importance of mentorship and authenticity. With a focus on transparency and ESG initiatives, she highlights the critical role of relationships in navigating the evolving investment landscape.

Kim Lew, the President and CEO of Columbia Investment Management Company, and Stefan Kaluzny, Founder of Sycamore Partners, delve into the intricacies of private equity. They discuss the blend of personal relationships and objective analysis during due diligence, sharing insights on evolving investment strategies. Kaluzny reveals the challenges of building Sycamore with a sector-focused approach. They explore the retail landscape's transformation, emphasizing technology's role and the necessity of clear communication in business. Their reflections also touch on patience and valuable life lessons.

In this insightful conversation, Erik Serrano Berntsen, Founder and CEO of Stable Asset Management, shares his journey in building a $3 billion asset venture. He discusses the vital qualities of successful founders and the importance of early engagement and relationship building in the investment community. Erik highlights the competitive edge smaller investment firms hold and how technology can streamline decision-making processes. He emphasizes the challenges emerging managers face and the critical role of strategic partnerships in securing funding.

In this engaging conversation, Ethan Berman, the founder and former CEO of RiskMetrics Group, chats with Hamish Corlett, co-founder of TDM Growth Partners. They dive into TDM's unique investment strategies and the importance of solid investor relationships. Hamish shares insights on maintaining core values while scaling, the significance of embracing discomfort for personal and team growth, and how strong partnerships enhance business success. The duo emphasizes a disciplined approach to investing amidst market challenges, making this a must-listen for aspiring investors.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Brown, Founder and CEO of CAIS, sheds light on the transformative impact of technology in democratizing alternative investments. He reflects on his unique journey from financial advisor to entrepreneur, emphasizing the need for effective communication over mere technical skills. The conversation highlights the shift toward alternative assets and the evolution of the wealth management landscape, alongside insights on leadership and creating a strong company culture. Matt also shares valuable lessons on missed opportunities and the power of empathy in business.

Join Ellen Ellison, former Chief Investment Officer of the University of Illinois Foundation, and Jonathan Brolin, founder of Edenbrook Capital, as they dive into the world of unconventional investments. They discuss the importance of trusting non-traditional managers and the lessons learned from investment mistakes. Brolin draws fascinating parallels between baseball and investing, emphasizing patience and analysis. They also explore strategies for building investor credibility, navigating market downturns, and fostering long-term partnerships for growth.

Barry Sternlicht, Chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital Group, has a remarkable career managing $95 billion in real estate investments. In this engaging discussion, he shares his early entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of innovative strategies in real estate amidst COVID-19. Sternlicht highlights the shifts in investment preferences, the challenges of global markets like China and Brazil, and his explorations in other asset classes, including SPACs and cryptocurrencies. His insights underscore adaptability and the importance of intellectual humility in navigating uncertain waters.