In a recent fireside chat hosted by Giovanni Modello, Eva Yazhari, Managing Partner at Beyond Capital Ventures, shared her perspectives on the intersection of climate, technology, and investment strategies in emerging markets. The discussion covered several key topics:

1. Impact of US Policy Changes on Climate and Technology: Eva highlighted the influence of recent US policy changes on global climate and technology sectors. She emphasized the need for companies to adapt quickly to new regulations, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, where changes in subsidies could impact market dynamics.

2. Global Investment Strategies: Eva discussed Beyond Capital Ventures’ focus on funding climate businesses in emerging markets like India and Africa. She provided examples of companies such as East Africa’s leading e-mobility business and Cinch, which turns idle land into income. These companies are strategically positioning themselves to hedge against uncertainties and explore opportunities outside the US.

3. Challenges and Opportunities for Startups: The conversation delved into the challenges startups face in navigating policy changes and the importance of acting swiftly. Eva stressed the need for startups to secure their supply chains and adapt their strategies to ensure growth and scalability.

4. Conscious Leadership and Ethical AI: Eva underscored the importance of conscious leadership, where leaders consider all stakeholders and ethical implications in their decision-making. She expressed optimism about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving innovation, while also highlighting the need for ethical standards in AI development.

5. Intersection of Climate and Technology: The chat explored the synergy between climate and technology, with Eva noting the significant opportunities for companies at this intersection. She mentioned investments in sustainable agriculture and EVs as examples of how technology can address climate challenges.

6. Future Investment Outlook: Eva shared Beyond Capital Ventures’ investment outlook for 2025, indicating plans to make several investments across their venture and debt funds. She highlighted the firm’s commitment to supporting businesses that promote financial health and physical well-being in rising middle classes in emerging markets.

7. Investor Sentiment and Market Trends: The discussion also touched on investor sentiment, with Eva noting a cautious approach among investors due to regulatory uncertainties. However, she expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of the companies in Beyond Capital Ventures’ portfolio.

8. Sustainable Business Practices: Eva emphasized the importance of sustainable business practices and the role of capitalism in fostering innovation. She expressed optimism about the future, driven by resilient founders who prioritize risk management and sustainability.

Key timestamps:

00:08 Introduction to the Discussion
00:58 Concerns of Founders Regarding Climate
03:00 Innovative Business Models in Agriculture
04:25 Navigating Uncertainty in Business Strategy
07:55 Shifting Focus to Technology
11:53 Intersection of Climate and Technology
15:27 Addressing Environmental Challenges for Future Generations
17:31 Investor Perspectives and Market Caution
18:42 Future Investment Outlook for Beyond Capital Ventures