In a recent fireside chat with ION Analytics’ Giovanni Amodeo, Kunal Sood, Managing Director at Pantheon Ventures, discussed various topics related to investing and private capital. The conversation began with an overview of Pantheon, a global firm managing approximately $65 billion in assets across four different asset classes.

Sood emphasized the importance of partnership in the business, stating that it’s a long-term commitment and requires a two-way relationship. He also highlighted the need for a strong record and a differentiated strategy in the market for a partner to be considered for investment.

The conversation then shifted to the topic of reviewing countries before reviewing General Partners (GPs). Sood explained that this is a continuous process, with the firm constantly reviewing the market and investment opportunities. He also discussed the importance of marrying macro and micro views of the GP’s performance, stating that it’s both an art and a science.
Sood also touched on the topic of incentivization, stating that alignment between the firm and the GPs is crucial. He also discussed the issue of succession, stating that it’s a great investment opportunity in markets like Japan and Korea.

On the topic of secondary markets, Sood stated that while they currently represent a small part of the AUM in Asia Pacific, it’s a growing market with a long runway of growth. He also discussed the role of technology in the business, stating that while it will play an increasingly important role, the human aspect will still be important.

In conclusion, Sood emphasized the importance of a long-term, partnership-based approach to investing, the increasing role of technology in the business, and the potential growth of secondary markets in Asia Pacific.

Key timestamps:

00:09: Introduction to ION Influencers Fireside Chats
00:40: Overview of Pantheon Ventures
01:26: Background and Role
02:03: Partnership Model
02:45: Criteria for Partner Selection
03:43: Market Analysis and Investment Strategy
04:11: Continuous Market Review
05:10: Marrying Macro and Micro View
06:29: Portfolio Review and Flexibility
07:35: Approach Towards Private Equity
10:11: Consideration of Climate and Impact
11:14: Incentivization and Impact Targets
12:15: Alignment with GPs
13:23: Succession Planning
15:21: Relationship Management
18:56: Technology and Human Interaction
20:18: The Growing Secondary Market
22:05: Compensation and Talent Attraction
23:37: Motivation and Talent Pool
24:29: Insights and Personal Questions