Private equity is increasingly built on shaky ground. And, as the private equity landscape evolves, investors should remain cautious. Especially given the complexities and risks of private equity funds. Private equity, once synonymous with exclusivity and high returns, is now an investment where transparency is increasingly questioned, liquidity is limited, and fees soar. This post highlights some worrying trends for...
Investing in cocoa can be an exciting trade. The cocoa market has experienced significant shifts recently, capturing the attention of investors, chocolate enthusiasts, and industry stakeholders alike. Understanding these trends is crucial for anyone involved or interested in the cocoa trade. So, this post will describe the current market dynamics shaping the cocoa market. And, describe some ways that investors...
The launch of the SVX Impact Index marks another milestone in the development of Canadian impact investing. By bridging the gap between investors and issuers, the SVX Impact Index aims to be a comprehensive database offering a curated selection of private impact investment opportunities. While the SVX Impact Index is commendable and certainly a step in the right direction. Impact...
How should investors be evaluating private credit? Recent research is casting doubt on the touted benefits. A new study by the National Bureau of Economic Research is suggesting that, when considering the additional risks and fees, private credit investments may not offer the alpha. In other words, excess returns that many investors anticipate have not materialized. This finding prompts...
Canadian investors are increasingly looking at alternative assets like gold and bitcoin as prices rise. And, with their unique characteristics, these alternative investments offer unique advantages for some. But, most investors should still avoid these types of investments. This post will give investors a unique perspective on investments like gold and bitcoin and explain how they may be used...
Family office investors are taking an increasingly significant role advancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives through their investments. One key strategy gaining prominence in this space is the use of "catalytic capital." Catalytic capital is a dynamic financial tool that combines private capital, pooled investment funds, and charitable capital to drive positive social and environmental impact while achieving financial...
One of the main problems with private equity (“PE”) is the lack of liquidity. To get around this, companies often use so-called NAV loans. With the downturn in the mergers and acquisitions market during 2023, many PE investors are finding themselves in a tight spot, contemplating an expensive solution: borrowing against their stakes using net-asset-value (NAV) financing. Before we begin,...
Private equity financing (“PE”) has always been about navigating the complexities of financial structures, seeking out lucrative deals, and balancing risks and rewards. But recently, PE firms are financing their deals and commitments in curious new ways. And with these shifts come new risks and opportunities for investors. Before we begin, let’s put your financial knowledge to the test. Try...
The global economic landscape is filled with idiosyncrasies. One of these is that low interest rates can lead investors to take higher risks. A popular misconception, largely influenced by such an environment, is the role of private equity (PE) in portfolio diversification. Let's delve into the nuances of this, especially for keen investors in private equity navigating today's trends. Before...
Family offices, often responsible for managing the wealth and investments of wealthy families, are increasingly incorporating impact investments into their portfolios. Recognizing the importance of not just financial returns, but also social and environmental impact. These investors are redefining the very essence of "returns on investment". The Global Impact Investing Network's (GIIN) five dimensions of impact investing offers a...
