Capital Allocators – Inside the Institutional Investment Industry

Alex Shahidi and Damien Bisserier, Co-CIOs of Evoke Wealth and ARIS Consulting, share their journey from major brokerage firms to founding their own $19 billion advisory. They discuss their innovative strategy for uncorrelated returns across markets, emphasizing risk parity and the influence of human behavior in investment decisions. The duo delves into the complexities of hedge fund strategies, the importance of structured manager relationships, and their personal insights on balancing caution with risk in both life and investing.

Rostin Behnam, the Acting Chairman of the CFTC, shares insights from his regulatory journey and the CFTC's mission in protecting U.S. derivatives markets. He discusses the evolving landscape of digital assets, emphasizing the balance between fostering innovation and ensuring consumer protection. The conversation delves into managing climate risk within financial frameworks, aiming for a comprehensive approach to sustainability. Behnam also reflects on his career transitions, illustrating how mentorship has shaped his path in public service.

Jennifer Prosek, founder and CEO of Prosek Partners, shares her insights on business development and leadership in a virtual world. She discusses how the pandemic has transformed marketing in asset management, emphasizing the importance of digital presence and effective storytelling. Prosek also highlights lessons learned during the health crisis, focusing on empathy in client communications and fostering a strong company culture. Additionally, she shares strategies for innovation and adapting to new market trends, including the rise of SPACs and the importance of diversity in leadership.

Jen Prosek, founder and CEO of Prosek Partners, shares her expertise in branding within asset management. She discusses the importance of effective narrative management, especially during periods of weak performance. Prosek also highlights the difference between hedge fund and private equity branding, alongside her experiences with generational workplace dynamics. Her insights on raising entrepreneurial children and embracing flexibility in business showcase her unique perspective, blending professionalism with personal wisdom.

David Baran and Kazuhiko Shibata, co-founders of Symphony Financial Partners, dive into Japan’s investment landscape. They discuss the unique challenge of valuing companies in a culture where employees often take precedence over shareholders. Hear insights on their investment strategy, focusing on management engagement to unlock value. They illuminate Japan's corporate governance evolution and share compelling stories from their careers. Plus, they highlight intriguing value opportunities, like a company producing temporary shelters, and reflect on personal wellness routines.

Michael Mauboussin, Head of Consilient Research at Counterpoint Global and a decision-making author, dives into the art of decision-making. He discusses the interplay between skill and luck, providing insights into how historical data and base rates enhance predictions. Drawing lessons from ant behavior, he examines exploration versus exploitation in human choices. Mauboussin emphasizes the need for reflection in decision processes and advocates for integrating decision education to sharpen critical thinking skills in future generations.

Join Paul Salem, Senior Managing Director Emeritus at Providence Equity Partners, as he shares insights from over three decades in private equity. He reflects on his career journey from a small media boutique to managing $49 billion in assets. Discover the significance of specialization, the competitive landscape of deal-making, and his take on the role of operating partners. Salem also discusses his transition to philanthropy, emphasizing the impact of education and entrepreneurship on urban youth, plus personal lessons on confidence and success.

Collette Chilton, the CIO of Williams College, has been a formidable force in investment management since the early '90s. She shares her inspiring career journey, from pivotal roles in public and corporate pensions to overseeing a $3 billion portfolio at Williams. The conversation delves into the significance of strategic manager selection, the evolution of asset allocation, and the importance of collaboration with alumni. Collette emphasizes humility, the value of learning from mistakes, and balancing personal well-being in a high-stress industry.

Fran Kinniry, a 23-year veteran at Vanguard Group, leads their private equity initiative and has played key roles in innovative product research and Advisor Alpha concept. He shares insights on Vanguard’s evolution from $300 billion to nearly $6 trillion in assets and the importance of behavioral coaching in investment decisions. Kinniry discusses integrating private equity into portfolios, selecting top managers, and the balance between active management and indexing. He also reflects on personal values and the need for adaptive strategies in a changing market.

Chris Dixon, a General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, shares his insights on the evolution of blockchain technology and its potential impact. He reflects on his journey from tech entrepreneurship to venture capital, emphasizing the importance of relationships in angel investing. The discussion includes a dive into digital assets, innovative token mechanics, and how community governance can drive decentralized networks. Dixon also addresses funding complexities in blockchain ventures and the strategic considerations for optimizing token distribution, offering a comprehensive view of the crypto landscape.