Connor Teskey: The 90% Rule, AI Infrastructure, and the Future of Investing
The Knowledge Project
The Oaktree Deal Came From Pattern Recognition
Connor Teskey recounts how studying alternative managers led Brookfield to see Oaktree as undervalued and strategically important in credit.
Connor Teskey is the CEO of Brookfield Asset Management, one of the world’s largest investors, managing about a trillion dollars across infrastructure, power, real estate, private equity, and credit.
In this exclusive interview, his first as CEO, we explore his approach to capital allocation, isolating variables, and building a business designed for long-term growth.
Discover why effective investing begins with minimizing losses, how waiting for perfect information can result in missed opportunities, the strategies Brookfield uses to manage market risk while maintaining upside potential, and the key insights he gained working alongside Bruce Flatt.
This discussion goes beyond investment strategies, offering a glimpse into Connor's perspective on decision-making in an uncertain environment, mentorship, culture, positioning, and talent.
It's a rare inside look at the operations of one of the world's most tight-lipped firms.
Enjoy!
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Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:05) State of the Union for Brookfield
(04:14) Nature of Investing
(07:24) The Rise to Brookfield
(12:06) Your Work Ethic is in Your Control
(17:30) Ad Break
(19:00) Data Center Deep Dive
(22:22) How Does a Deal Come to Be?
(29:34) Taking Bets Against Consensus
(32:00) What Happens Post Business Acquisition?
(40:44) Ad Break
(41:55) Lived Experience Through Crashes
(43:44) Where Does Talent Matter the Most at Brookfield?
(47:10) Identifying Talent
(58:18) Using AI to Increase Value Not Cut People
(01:01:58) When Was Brookfield the Underdog?
(01:03:38) Personal Ambition Over the Next 20 Years
(01:10:34) Behind The Scenes of Oaktree
(01:15:17) Work and Life Harmony
(01:17:54) Time Allocation
(01:19:58) The Most Fun Deal to Work On
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* Note: Shane and guests may hold positions in assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nothing in this conversation should be considered investment advice, financial guidance, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Always do your own due diligence or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.
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