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What Is an Investment Thesis?

• Understanding the Thesis

Special Considerations

• What's Included?

The Bottom Line

• Portfolio Management

Investment Thesis: An Argument in Support of Investing Decisions

Charlene Rhinehart is a CPA , CFE, chair of an Illinois CPA Society committee, and has a degree in accounting and finance from DePaul University.

The term investment thesis refers to a reasoned argument for a particular investment strategy, backed up by research and analysis. Investment theses are commonly prepared by (and for) individual investors and businesses. These formal written documents may be prepared by analysts or other financial professionals for presentation to their clients.

Key Takeaways

• An investment thesis is a written document that recommends a new investment, based on research and analysis of its potential for profit.
• Individual investors can use this technique to investigate and select investments that meet their goals.
• Financial professionals use the investment thesis to pitch their ideas.

Understanding the Investment Thesis

As noted above, an investment thesis is a written document that provides information about a potential investment. It is a research- and analysis-based proposal that is usually drafted by an investment or financial professional to provide insight into investments and to pitch investment ideas. In some cases, the investor will draft their own investment thesis, as is the case with venture capitalists and private equity firms.

This thesis can be used as a strategic decision-making tool. Investors and companies can use a thesis to decide whether or not to pursue a particular investment, such as a stock or acquiring another company. Or it can be used as a way to look back and analyze why a particular decision was made in the first place—and whether it was the right one. Putting things in writing can have a huge impact on the direction of a potential investment.

Let's say an investor purchases a stock based on the investment thesis that the stock is undervalued . The thesis states that the investor plans to hold the stock for three years, during which its price will rise to reflect its true worth. At that point, the stock will be sold at a profit. A year later, the stock market crashes, and the investor's pick crashes with it. The investor recalls the investment thesis, relies on the integrity of its conclusions, and continues to hold the stock.

That is a sound strategy unless some event that is totally unexpected and entirely absent from the investment thesis occurs. Examples of these might include the 2007-2008 financial crisis or the Brexit vote that forced the United Kingdom out of the European Union (EU) in 2016. These were highly unexpected events, and they might affect someone's investment thesis.

If you think your investment thesis holds up, stick with it through thick and thin.

An investment thesis is generally formally documented, but there are no universal standards for the contents. Some require fast action and are not elaborate compositions. When a thesis concerns a big trend, such as a global macro perspective, the investment thesis may be well documented and might even include a fair amount of promotional materials for presentation to potential investing partners.

Portfolio management is now a science-based discipline, not unlike engineering or medicine. As in those fields, breakthroughs in basic theory, technology, and market structures continuously translate into improvements in products and in professional practices. The investment thesis has been strengthened with qualitative and quantitative methods that are now widely accepted.

As with any thesis, an idea may surface but it is methodical research that takes it from an abstract concept to a recommendation for action. In the world of investments, the thesis serves as a game plan.

What's Included in an Investment Thesis?

Although there's no industry standard, there are usually some common components to this document. Remember, an investment thesis is generally a proposal that is based on research and analysis. As such, it is meant to be a guide about the viability of a particular investment.

Most investment theses include (but aren't limited to) the following information:

• The investment in question
• The investment goal(s)
• Viability of the investment, including any trends that support the investment
• Potential downsides and risks that may be associated with the investment
• Costs and potential returns as well as any losses that may result

Some theses also try to answer some key questions, including:

• Does the investment align with the intended goal(s)?
• What could go wrong?
• What do the financial statements say?
• What is the growth potential of this investment?

Putting everything in writing can help investors make more informed decisions. For instance, a company's management team can use a thesis to decide whether or not to pursue the acquisition of a rival. The thesis may highlight whether the target's vision aligns with the acquirer or it may identify opportunities for growth in the market.

Keep in mind that the complexity of an investment thesis depends on the type of investor involved and the nature of the investment. So the investment thesis for a corporation looking to acquire a rival may be more in-depth and complicated compared to that of an individual investor who wants to develop an investment portfolio.

Examples of an Investment Thesis

Portfolio managers and investment companies often post information about their investment theses on their websites. The following are just two examples.

Morgan Stanley

Morgan Stanley ( MS ) is one of the world's leading financial services firms. It offers investment management services, investment banking, securities, and wealth management services. According to the company, it has five steps that make up its investment process, including idea generation, quality assessment, valuation, risk management , and portfolio construction.

When it comes to developing its investment thesis, the company tries to answer three questions as part of its quality assessment step:

• "Is the company a disruptor or is it insulated from disruptive change? 
• Does the company demonstrate financial strength with high returns on invested capital, high margins, strong cash conversion, low capital intensity and low leverage? 
• Are there environmental or social externalities not borne by the company, or governance and accounting risks that may alter the investment thesis?"

Connetic Ventures

Connetic Adventures is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage companies. The company uses data to develop its investment thesis, which is made up of three pillars. According to its blog, there were three pillars or principles that contributed to Connetic's venture capital investment strategy. These included diversification, value, and follow-on—each of which comes with a pro and con.

Why Is an Investment Thesis Important?

An investment thesis is a written proposal or research-based analysis of why investors or companies should pursue an investment. In some cases, it may also serve as a historical guide as to whether the investment was a good move or not. Whatever the reason, an investment thesis allows investors to make better, more informed decisions about whether to put their money into a specific investment. This written document provides insight into what the investment is, the goals of the investment, any associated costs, the potential for returns, as well as any possible risks and losses that may result.

Who Should Have an Investment Thesis?

An investment thesis is important for anyone who wants to invest their money. Individual investors can use a thesis to decide whether to purchase stock in a particular company and what strategy they should use, whether it's a buy-and-hold strategy or one where they only have the stock for a short period of time. A company can craft its own investment thesis to help weigh out whether an acquisition or growth strategy is worthwhile.

How Do You Create an Investment Thesis?

It's important to put your investment thesis in writing. Seeing your proposal in print can help you make a better decision. When you're writing your investment thesis, be sure to be clear and concise. Make sure you do your research and include any facts and figures that can help you make your decision. Be sure to include your goals, the potential for upside, and any risks that you may come across. Try to ask and answer some key questions, including whether the investment meets your investment goals and what could go wrong if you go ahead with the deal.

It's always important to have a plan, especially when it comes to investing. After all, you are putting your money at risk. Having an investment thesis can help you make more informed decisions about whether a potential investment is worth your while. Make sure you put your thesis in writing and answer some key questions about your goals, costs, and potential outcomes. Having a concrete proposal in place can spell the difference between earning returns and losing all your money. And that's if your thesis supports the investment in the first place.

Harvard Business School. " Writing a Credible Investment Thesis ."

Lanturn. " What is an Investment Thesis and 3 Tips to Make One ."

Morgan Stanley. " Global Opportunity ."

Medium. " The Data That Built Our Fund's Investment Thesis ."

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The Impact Investor | ESG Investing Blog

Investing for financial return is only part of the equation.

How to Create an Investment Thesis [Step-By-Step Guide]

Updated on June 13, 2023

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One of the worst mistakes an investor can make is to sink their money into an investment without knowing why. While this may seem like the world’s most obvious mistake to avoid, it happens every day. Look no further than the stock market for plenty of examples of misguided optimism gone terribly wrong.

That’s where the idea of an investment thesis comes in. An investment thesis is a common tool used by venture capital investors and hedge funds as part of their investment strategy.

Most funds also use it on a regular basis to size up potential candidates during buy-side job interviews. But you don’t have to work at a venture capital fund or private equity firm to reap the benefits of creating an investment thesis of your own.

Table of Contents

What Is an Investment Thesis?

Materials needed to create a thesis for your investment strategy, a step-by-step guide to creating a solid investment thesis, step 1: start with the essentials, step 2: analyze the current market, step 3: analyze the company’s sector, step 4: analyze the company’s position within its sector, step 5: identify the catalyst, step 6: solidify your thesis with analysis, free tools to help strengthen your investment strategy.

An investment thesis is simply an argument for why you should make a specific investment. Whether it be a stock market investment or private equity, investment theses are all about creating a solid argument for why a certain acquisition is a good idea based on strategic planning and research.

While it takes a little more work upfront, a clear investment thesis can be a valuable tool for any investor. Not only does it ensure that you fully understand why you’re choosing to put your hard-earned money into certain stocks or other assets, but it can also help you develop a long-term plan.

Should an investment idea not go as planned, you can always go back to your investment thesis to see if it still holds the potential to work out. By considering all the information your thesis contains, you’ll have a much better idea of whether it’s best to cut your losses and sell, continue holding, or even add to your position.

An investment thesis includes everything you need to create a solid game plan, making it a foundational part of any stock pitch.

See Related : Best Socially Responsible Stocks To Invest In Today

One of the benefits of an investment thesis is that it can be as complex or as simple as you like. If you actually work at a venture capital firm , then you may want to develop a full-on venture capital investment thesis. But if you’re a retail investor just looking to solidify your investment strategy, then your thesis may be much more straightforward.

If you’re an individual investor, then all you really need to create an investment thesis is somewhere to write it out. Whether it be in a Google or Word doc or on a piece of paper, just make sure you have a place to record your thesis so that you can consult it down the line.

If you’re developing a venture capital investment thesis that you plan to present to an investment committee or potential employers, then there are plenty of great tools online that can help. Slideteam has thousands of templates that can help you create a killer investment thesis , as well as full-on stock pitch templates.

As mentioned earlier, an investment thesis holds the potential to help you plot out a strategy for pretty much any acquisition. But for the sake of simplicity, we’ll assume throughout the examples in the following steps that you’re an investor interested in going long on a stock that you plan to hold for at least a few months or years.

Venture capitalists looking to invest in companies or startups can also apply the same principles to other investment goals. Investors who are looking to short a certain stock should also be able to use these techniques to locate potential investments. The main difference, of course, is that you’ll be looking for bad news instead of good.

First things first. Before you get into doing the research that goes into an investment thesis or stock pitch, make sure you take the time to write out the basics. At the top of the page, include things like:

• The name of the company and its ticker symbol
• Today’s date
• How many shares of the company you already own, if any
• The current cost average for any shares you may already hold
• Whether the stock pays dividends and, if so, how often. You may also want to include the current ex-dividend and dividend payment dates.
• A brief summary of the company and what it does

See Related : How to Start Investing With Purpose

Now it’s time to take a look at the entire market and the direction it’s headed. Why? As Investors Business Daily points out,

“History shows 3 out of 4 stocks move in the same direction as the overall market, either up or down. So if you buy stocks when the market is trending higher, you have a 75% chance of being right. But if you buy when the market is trending lower, you have a 75% chance of being wrong.”

While the overall market direction is definitely an important factor to keep in mind, what you choose to do with this information will largely come down to your individual investing style. Investors Business Daily founder William O’Neil advised investors only to jump into the market when it was trending up.

Another approach, however, is known as contrarian investing, which revolves around going against market trends. Warren Buffett summed up the idea behind this strategy with his famous quote, “Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful.” Or as Baron Rothschild more graphically put it, “Buy when there is blood in the streets, even if the blood is your own.”

Most investors who are looking for a faster return will likely be better off waiting to strike until the iron is hot. If you align more with the long-term contrarian philosophy, however, bleak macroeconomic outlooks may actually strike you as an ideal investment opportunity .

See Related: How to Invest in Private Equity: A Step-by-Step

Now that you’ve got a look at the overall market, it’s time to take a look at the sector your company fits into. The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) breaks down the entire market into 11 sectors. If you want to get even more specific, you can further break down companies into the GICS’s 24 industry groups, 69 industries, and 158 sub-industries.

Once you identify which group your company belongs to, you’ll then want to take a look at that sector’s performance. Fidelity provides a handy breakdown of the performance of various sectors over different time periods.

But why does it matter? Two reasons.

• Identifying which sectors various companies belong to can help you ensure that your portfolio is properly diversified
• The reason that sector ETFs tend to be so popular is that when a sector is trending, many of the stocks within that sector tend to move in unison. The reverse is also true. When a certain industry is lagging, the individual stock prices of the companies in that industry may be affected negatively. While this is not always the case, it’s a general rule of thumb to keep in mind.

The idea behind working sectors into your investment criteria is to give you an overview of what type of investment you’re about to make. If you’re a momentum trader, then you may want to shoot for companies within the strongest-performing sectors this year or even over the past few months.

If you’re a value investor, however, you may be more open to sectors that have historically experienced high growth, even if they are currently suffering due to the overall state of the economy. Some speculative investors may even be interested in an innovative industry with strong potential growth possibilities, even if its time has not yet come.

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If you want to up your odds of success even more, then you’ll want to compare the company you’re interested in against the performance of similar companies in the same industry.

These are the companies that tend to get the most attention from large, institutional investors who are in a position to significantly increase their market value. Institutional investors tend to have a huge amount of money in play and are far less likely to invest in a company without a proven track record.

When choosing an investment, they’ll almost always go with a global leader over a new business, regardless of its promise. However, they also consider intrinsic value, which considers how much a company’s stock is selling for now, as opposed to how much revenue the company stands to earn in the future. In other words, institutional investors are looking for companies that are stable enough to avoid surprises but that also stand to generate considerable capital in the future.

Why work this into your game plan? Because even if you don’t have millions of dollars to invest in a company, there may be hedge funds or venture capital firms out there that do. When these guys make an investment, it tends to be a big one that can actually move a company’s share price upward. Why not ride their coattails and enjoy a solid growth rate as they invest more money over time into proven winners?

That’s why it’s important to make sure that you see how a company stacks up against its closest competitors. If it’s an industry-leading business with a large market share, it’s likely to be a strong contender with solid fundamentals. If not, you may end up discovering competing companies that make sense to consider instead.

See Related : What is a Triple Bottom Line? Definition & Examples

At this point, hopefully, you’ve identified the best stock in the best sector based on your ideal investing style. Now it’s time to find out exactly why it deserves to become a part of your portfolio and for how long.

If a company has been experiencing impressive growth, then there’s bound to be a reason why.

• Is the company experiencing a major influx of business because it’s currently a leader in the hottest sector of the moment? Or is it a “good house in a bad neighborhood” that’s moving independently of the other stocks in its industry?
• How long has it been demonstrating growth?
• What appears to be the catalyst behind its movement? Does the stock owe its growth to strong management, recent world events, the approval of a new drug, the introduction of a hot new product, etc?

One mistake that far too many beginning investors make is assuming that short-term growth alone always indicates the potential for long-term profit. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. By figuring out exactly why a stock is moving, you’ll be far better positioned to decide how long to hold it before you sell.

A strong catalyst can cause the price of a stock to skyrocket overnight, even if it’s laid dormant for years. Even things like social media hype and rumors can cause a stock’s price to shoot up over the course of a given day. But woe to the investor that assumes these profits will last. Many are often left holding the bag when the price increase turns out to be part of a “ pump and dump .”

While many day traders can make a nice profit by capitalizing on these situations, such trades are best avoided altogether if you plan to hold a stock long-term. That’s why it’s so important to understand whether a stock is “in play” for the day or whether its growth can be attributed to more permanent factors that support the potential for a high return over time.

See Related : How to Become an Impact Investor [Step-By-Step Guide]

If you’re planning on investing a significant amount of capital in any stock, then a little research may be able to save you from a lot of heartache. Keep in mind that the focus of an investment thesis is to formulate a reasoned argument about why adding an asset to your portfolio is a good idea.

While all investments come with some level of risk, research can be an excellent risk mitigation strategy. There’s nothing worse than watching an investment fail due to an obvious factor you could have spotted with closer analysis. Don’t let it happen to you!

Fundamental analysis can help you ensure that your potential investments have the underlying traits that winning stocks are made of. While there’s a bit of a learning curve involved when you’re first starting out, here are some of the things you’ll want to focus on:

EPS stands for “earnings per share.” It’s a common financial indicator that basically tells you how much a company makes each time it sells a share of its stock. In this regard, a higher EPS is a good thing, but it’s important to look for solid EPS growth over time. Ideally, you’ll want to see consistent growth in a company’s EPS over the past three or more quarters.

Sales and Margins

Investing is all about putting your cash into successful companies, which is why sales and margins are key components to finding worthy investments. Sales indicate how much a business has made from (you guessed it) sales. Sales margin, also known as gross profit margin, is the amount of revenue a company actually gets to keep after you factor in overhead and other production costs. Ideally, a good investment will exhibit strong, consistent sales growth in recent years.

Return On Equity (ROE)

ROE is one of the more commonly used valuation metrics and is calculated by dividing the company’s net income/shareholders’ equity. ROE is basically a measure of how efficiently a company is using the capital it generates from equity fundraising to increase its own value. The higher the ROE, the more likely it is that a company operates with a focus on using its cash flow to increase its profits.

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While these are just a few examples of various analysis methods to work into your investment thesis, they can go a long way toward locating solid companies worth investing in. Interested in learning more about technical and fundamental analysis? There are now plenty of great sites that can help you master the secrets of the training world.

In our opinion, Tradimo is one of the most underrated, as it provides tons of free classes for investors of all levels. Udemy also has some great classes that can help you learn how to beef up your investment thesis with as much quality information as possible.

But keep in mind that these are only suggestions. The most important part of any personal investment thesis is that it makes sense to you and can serve as a valuable tool to help you along your investing journey.

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• Sustainable Investing vs Impact Investing: What’s the Difference?

Kyle Kroeger, esteemed Purdue University alum and accomplished finance professional, brings a decade of invaluable experience from diverse finance roles in both small and large firms. An astute investor himself, Kyle adeptly navigates the spheres of corporate and client-side finance, always guiding with a principal investor’s sharp acumen.

Hailing from a lineage of industrious Midwestern entrepreneurs and creatives, his business instincts are deeply ingrained. This background fuels his entrepreneurial spirit and underpins his commitment to responsible investment. As the Founder and Owner of The Impact Investor, Kyle fervently advocates for increased awareness of ethically invested funds, empowering individuals to make judicious investment decisions.

Striving to marry financial prudence with positive societal impact, Kyle imparts practical strategies for saving and investing, underlined by a robust ethos of conscientious capitalism. His ambition transcends personal gain, aiming instead to spark transformative global change through the power of responsible investment.

When not immersed in the world of finance, he’s continually captivated by the cultural richness of new cities, relishing the opportunity to learn from diverse societies. This passion for travel is eloquently documented on his site, ViaTravelers.com, where you can delve into his unique experiences via his author profile.

How to Develop Your Own Investment Thesis: A Critical Step for Aspiring Venture Capitalists

s an aspiring venture capitalist, you hold the key to unlock the untapped potential of startups, propelling them to soaring heights and reshaping industries. But in this electrifying landscape of opportunities, how do you navigate through the ever-changing tides? The answer lies in the essence of venture capital success: developing your own investment thesis.

What exactly is an Investment Thesis?

An investment thesis is your North Star, an illuminating beacon that guides you through the vast ocean of startups, helping you navigate toward the brightest prospects. It's a strategic framework, meticulously crafted to align your investment approach, criteria, and aspirations.

With an investment thesis, you define the types of companies you want to invest in, the industries you're interested in, and the stages of startups you believe have the most potential. It's like setting your preferences and priorities before you begin the journey.

Why is an investment thesis so critical for aspiring venture capitalists? The answer is simple—this well-defined roadmap sets you apart from the crowd and gives you the edge to thrive in this fiercely competitive world. It empowers you to make informed decisions, uncover hidden gems in the startup ecosystem, and unlock the true potential of visionary entrepreneurs.

In this blog post, we will explore the essential steps to create a compelling and potent investment thesis

Getting Started With Your Investment Thesis: Conducting Market Research

At the core of any successful investment thesis lies comprehensive market research. Understanding industry trends, evaluating market opportunities, and assessing the competitive landscape are vital steps to identify lucrative investment prospects. 

Keep a finger on the pulse of the business landscape and stay attuned to shifts and disruptions. Analyze the forces shaping various sectors, from cutting-edge technologies and regulatory changes to changes in consumer behavior. Identifying and understanding these trends will enable you to anticipate the future landscape, positioning you as an astute investor who can spot opportunities before they materialize.

With a keen understanding of industry trends, venture capitalists must evaluate market opportunities with a discerning eye. Look beyond the surface and assess the long-term growth potential of markets and industries. Identify white spaces and areas where innovation is likely to flourish. Be mindful of macroeconomic factors, such as GDP growth, inflation rates, and demographic shifts, as they can profoundly influence market dynamics. A comprehensive evaluation of market opportunities will empower you to focus your investments on ventures that have the potential to become tomorrow's industry leaders.

In the vibrant world of startups, competition is the norm. As such, to excel as a venture capitalist, you must also gain a panoramic view of the competitive landscape. Analyze existing players and their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis). Identify startups that have the potential to disrupt established markets and challenge the status quo. Furthermore, seek out market gaps, where unmet needs and underserved customer segments await innovative solutions. Investing in startups that address these gaps can lead to remarkable returns on investment and foster a positive impact on society.

Market research is not a mere exercise of intuition and speculation; it thrives on data-driven insights. Leverage data analytics, market reports, and industry research to augment your understanding of market trends. Embrace technology and data tools that can provide you with a wealth of information at your fingertips. By making data-driven decisions, you'll foster a more robust investment thesis and bolster your credibility as a venture capitalist.

While conducting market research, it's crucial to remember that the startup ecosystem is dynamic and ever-changing. Be prepared to pivot and adapt your investment thesis in response to new information and shifts in the market. Stay agile and flexible, allowing your investment strategy to evolve as you gain deeper insights. Successful venture capitalists are those who can navigate uncertainty, staying attuned to emerging trends and swiftly adjusting their course to capitalize on unforeseen opportunities.

Defining The Investment Criteria for your Investment Thesis

Once you've gathered market insights, now it’s the fun part - it's time to define your investment criteria. Determine the stages of startups you want to invest in, such as seed, early-stage, or late-stage companies. Consider the industries you're passionate about or have domain expertise in. 

Additionally, establish your preferred investment size and the level of diversification you aim to achieve within your portfolio. Having clear investment criteria will streamline your decision-making process and keep your investments focused on your goals.

Determining the Stages of Startups

Venture capitalists invest in startups at various stages of their lifecycle, each offering distinct opportunities and risks. Deciding which stage aligns best with your expertise and risk appetite is pivotal. Consider if you want to invest in seed-stage companies, which are in their infancy and require significant support, or if you prefer early-stage startups with a product and initial traction. Alternatively, you may focus on later-stage companies that are scaling and need capital to expand rapidly. Your chosen stage will dictate your involvement level and the potential return horizon of your investments.

Geographical Preferences and Target Industries

Venture capital is a global endeavor, and you can choose to invest locally, regionally, or even globally. Geographical preferences may be influenced by factors like your network, knowledge of specific markets, and comfort with regulatory environments. Moreover, identifying the industries you're passionate about or have domain expertise in is crucial. Investing in industries you understand well will allow you to provide strategic value to the startups you support, beyond just financial backing.

Investment Size and Portfolio Diversification

The size of your investments and portfolio diversification strategy are interlinked. Determine the average investment size you are comfortable with, as this will influence the types of startups you can back. Some venture capitalists prefer larger, concentrated bets on a select few startups, while others spread their investments across a broader range of smaller companies to diversify risk. Striking the right balance is key—too few investments can expose you to concentrated risk, while too many might dilute your ability to provide adequate support to each startup.

Alignment with Personal Values and Objectives

As an aspiring venture capitalist, your investment criteria should be in harmony with your personal values and long-term objectives. Consider what impact you want to make through your investments. Are you driven by social impact, environmental sustainability, or a particular mission? Aligning your investment criteria with your values will not only enhance your satisfaction as an investor but may also attract entrepreneurs who share your passion, fostering a mutually rewarding relationship.

Market Fit and Growth Potential

While defining your investment criteria, focus on identifying startups that exhibit strong market fit and immense growth potential. Market fit refers to the startup's ability to address a specific problem or need in the market effectively. Investigate whether the startup's product or service resonates with its target audience and has the potential for widespread adoption. Moreover, evaluate the scalability of the business model, as this will determine the startup's growth trajectory and its potential to become a market leader.

Synergy with Your Expertise and Network

Leverage your expertise and network to your advantage when defining your investment criteria. Aligning with startups that can benefit from your insights and connections will create a symbiotic relationship. As an investor, you can offer more than just financial support; your guidance and connections can be invaluable in helping startups navigate challenges and scale their businesses. Synergy with your expertise and network can significantly enhance your value proposition as a venture capitalist.

Balancing Risk and Return

Investing in startups inherently involves risk, and your investment criteria should reflect your risk appetite and tolerance. Strive for a balance between risk and potential return that aligns with your investment objectives. High-growth startups often carry higher risk, but they can also offer substantial rewards.

On the other hand, more established companies may provide a steadier return, albeit with potentially lower growth potential. Understanding this balance is essential in defining your investment criteria and building a well-rounded portfolio.

Balancing risk and potential returns is a fine art, and your investment thesis should outline how you plan to approach this delicate balance. Furthermore, learn to measure and quantify risk in the startup ecosystem using various risk assessment techniques to make informed investment choices.

Identifying Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Your Investment Thesis

Key Performance Indicators are quantifiable metrics that provide critical insights into the performance and achievements of a business. By tracking relevant KPIs, venture capitalists can assess the overall health and direction of a startup, enabling them to support portfolio companies effectively. Moreover, KPIs offer a basis for comparison, allowing you to benchmark a startup's progress against its peers and industry standards.

Tailoring KPIs to Startup Stages and Industries

While KPIs share a common goal of tracking performance, their significance can vary significantly based on the stage and industry of a startup. For example, early-stage companies might prioritize metrics related to customer acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. In contrast, late-stage startups might focus on revenue growth, customer lifetime value, and profitability. Tailoring KPIs to suit the unique needs and challenges of each startup stage and industry is vital for meaningful performance assessment.

Selecting Actionable and Measurable Metrics

When identifying KPIs, seek metrics that are both actionable and measurable. Actionable KPIs provide clear guidance on how to improve performance, helping startups identify areas that need attention and enhancement. Measurable KPIs, on the other hand, are quantifiable, allowing you to track progress and changes over time. The ability to take action based on KPIs and measure their impact ensures a proactive approach to enhancing a startup's performance.

Common KPIs in Venture Capital

While KPIs can be highly specific to individual startups and industries, certain metrics have proven valuable across the venture capital landscape. Some common KPIs include:

Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC): The cost to acquire a new customer, helping evaluate marketing efficiency.

Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR): Provides insight into the company's predictable revenue stream.

Customer Churn Rate: Measures customer retention and the ability to maintain long-term 

relationships.

Burn Rate: Tracks how quickly a startup is spending its capital, indicating runway and sustainability.

Gross and Net Profit Margins: Assessing revenue generation and cost efficiency.

Customer Lifetime Value (CLV): Estimates the value of a customer over their entire engagement with the startup.

The Power of Data-Driven Decision Making

KPIs are not merely numbers on a dashboard; they fuel data-driven decision-making. By continuously monitoring KPIs, you can identify strengths, weaknesses, and potential roadblocks. Data-driven insights enable you to provide tailored guidance and support to your portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities.

Building a Well-defined Due Diligence Process

A well-structured due diligence process empowers you to make informed decisions, mitigates risks, and will help you identify the startups that align best with your investment thesis!

Let's delve deeper into the key steps involved in building an effective due diligence process so you can include it on your Investment Thesis:

1. Defining Your Due Diligence Objectives

Start by clarifying your objectives for the due diligence process. What key aspects do you want to evaluate in potential startups? Identify the critical areas of focus, such as market opportunity, team capabilities, competitive landscape, financials, and scalability. Setting clear objectives ensures that you leave no stone unturned while assessing potential investments.

2. Gathering Essential Information

Begin the process by collecting comprehensive data and information about the startup under consideration. Request financial statements, market research, business plans, and any other relevant documentation. Engage in one-on-one discussions with the startup's founders and management team to gain insights into their vision, strategy, and execution plans. Gathering essential information lays the groundwork for a detailed evaluation.

3. Market Analysis

Conduct a thorough market analysis to assess the startup's positioning within its industry. Analyze market trends, potential for growth, competitive landscape, and potential threats. Understanding the market dynamics helps you gauge the startup's competitive advantage and potential for success.

4. Team Evaluation

Evaluate the startup's team to understand their expertise, experience, and alignment with the company's vision. Assess the cohesiveness and complementarity of the team, as a strong and capable team is a significant factor in a startup's success.

5. Financial Due Diligence

Perform rigorous financial due diligence to examine the startup's financial health and viability. Analyze revenue streams, cost structures, cash flow, and projections. Scrutinize financial ratios and indicators to assess the startup's financial sustainability and growth potential.

6. Product and Technology Assessment

Evaluate the startup's product or technology to gauge its uniqueness and potential market fit. Understand the value proposition it offers to customers and how it addresses market needs. Assess the scalability and defensibility of the product or technology to ensure long-term competitiveness.

7. Legal and Regulatory Review

Conduct a legal and regulatory review to identify any potential legal risks or compliance issues. Scrutinize contracts, licenses, intellectual property rights, and any pending legal disputes. Ensuring the startup operates within legal bounds safeguards your investment from unnecessary risks.

8. Customer and Partner Feedback

Gather feedback from customers, partners, and industry experts to gain external perspectives on the startup's product or service. Their insights can validate the startup's market fit, customer satisfaction, and potential for growth.

9. Risk Analysis

Identify and assess potential risks associated with the investment. Consider market risks, operational risks, technological risks, and competitive risks. A thorough risk analysis helps you make informed decisions about risk-reward trade-offs.

10. Decision-Making and Post-Investment Monitoring

Based on the findings from the due diligence process, make data-driven decisions on whether to invest in the startup. If you decide to proceed, establish a monitoring plan to track the startup's progress and performance after the investment. Continuously monitor the startup's performance against the initially defined objectives and pivot if needed.

Refining Your Thesis and Iterating

It’s also important to keep in mind that an investment thesis should not be static; it should evolve with your experiences and the changing market dynamics. Embrace flexibility and adaptability, and be open to learning from both successful and unsuccessful investments. As you gain insights from your portfolio companies and the market, update and refine your investment thesis to enhance its effectiveness continually!

Developing your own investment thesis is a critical step for aspiring venture capitalists. It provides you with a structured approach to identify and seize opportunities in the dynamic startup ecosystem. 

Through comprehensive market research, clear investment criteria, risk assessment, and an adaptable approach, your investment thesis will act as a guiding force throughout your venture capital journey. Embrace the continuous learning process, and don't hesitate to iterate and refine your thesis as you gain experience in the thrilling world of venture capital.

Interested in the full research paper?

You might also like, crisis resilience in vc: how the industry responds to economic challenges, mastering salary negotiations: insider tips for analyst and associate vc positions, vc titans of the past: lessons from legendary investors who shaped the industry, the power of standardization in venture capital: streamlining back-office operations, the evolution of learning: edtech's answer to an obsolete education model, ai in 2024: a year of innovation and investment - unveiling the funding landscape, about goingvc.

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How To Make An Investment Thesis

An Introduction to Investment Thesis

An investment thesis forms the basis of an investor's strategy and serves as a framework to direct investment choices as well as articulate the reasoning behind targeting assets or markets. A robust investment thesis clearly outlines the factors that will drive returns while minimizing risks. Developing a thought-out investment thesis is crucial for achieving success in investments.

This guide will take you through the components of creating a compelling investment thesis from beginning to end. We will discuss how to identify promising investment opportunities, analyze target companies, perform valuation modeling, build a portfolio, present the fund's thesis to potential investors, implement the thesis in investment activities, and adapt it as market conditions evolve. By adhering to a disciplined investment thesis, investors can consistently make informed decisions and make choices to outperform the market.

Identifying Investment Opportunities

The initial step in developing an investment thesis involves pinpointing areas of focus that will shape your investment decisions. This entails determining sectors, asset classes, geographical regions, or other frameworks on which you wish to concentrate your research and analysis.

When determining the area you want to focus on, there are four key questions and factors to consider;

• Your expertise and knowledge - It is best to concentrate on areas where you have experience or can gain expertise without stretching yourself
• Macroeconomic trends - Look out for trends that can have an impact. These trends could include shifts, advancements, policy changes, and more. Identify sectors, regions, or asset classes that are likely to benefit from these long-term shifts
• Market inefficiencies - Keep an eye out for market inefficiencies. Opportunities often arise in markets that are fragmented, complex, or experiencing changes
• Investment horizons - Consider the investment horizon required for investment theses. Some ideas may require a time frame to materialize their potential returns while others may offer shorter-term gains

Once you have determined your area of focus, it is crucial to conduct in-depth research on the macro trends shaping that market. Look for trends that will drive growth over the years rather than focusing solely on quarterly fluctuations mentioned in market reports. The objective is to identify factors that can positively impact revenues, margins, and valuations of well-positioned companies.

With an understanding of the landscape established through research, you can then search for companies positioned to take advantage of the identified trends. Look for firms, with products/services/customers/geographical reach or innovative strategies that give them an edge when it comes to capitalizing on these opportunities.

Analyzing the Company

For an investment thesis, it is crucial to assess the company you are considering for investment. This assessment should include an evaluation of the company's drivers of growth, its management team and strategy as well as potential risks and challenges.

Growth Drivers

When analyzing the market value of a company, you'll want to closely examine the products, customers, and competitive positioning that are fueling its growth.

• Products: Look at the company's current product portfolio and pipeline. Do they have innovative products that are gaining market share? How large is their total addressable market and how much of it have they penetrated so far?
• Customers: Evaluate who their key customers are and how loyal they are. Look at metrics like net dollar retention rate to understand how loyal their customers are
• Competition: Analyze the competitive landscape and the company's positioning. Do they have a durable competitive advantage? How do they compare to rivals on factors like pricing, product features, and customer experience?
• Scalability: Do margins get larger or smaller as a customer increases its size? In some cases, unprofitable companies become highly profitable with growth - in other cases, costs increase in line with revenues. 

Management and Strategy

The strategy and execution capabilities of management are critical to a company's success.

• Management Team: Research the background and track record of key executives. Do they have relevant industry experience and a history of generating returns?
• Strategy: Assess management's strategic priorities and plans to drive growth. Do they have a coherent plan to expand their market opportunity?
• Culture & Incentives: Assess how they attract and retain talent. Are employees actively involved and motivated to excel?

Assessing the management will help ascertain whether the company has the leadership to seize the upcoming opportunity.

Risks and Challenges

When conducting an analysis it's important to consider factors;

• Technology Shifts: Take into account innovations that could affect the company's market.
• Regulation: Consider possible changes in regulations that may impact the business model and financial aspects.
• Macro Trends: Look at shifts in the wider economic environment that could influence customer demand.

Thoroughly examining the company across these dimensions provides the information and perspective to build confidence in your investment thesis. It helps you understand the business model, growth trajectory, management capabilities, risks involved, and valuation potential.

Conducting Valuation

Whilst a company's valuation is largely based purely on how much an investor or acquirer is willing to pay, there are a number of methodologies that help to guide valuations:

Choosing the Appropriate Valuation Method

DCF valuation is typically preferred when assessing situations where reliable projections can be made. However, for early-stage or volatile companies, it may be more appropriate to consider comparable multiples based on similar industry peers.

Making Projections and Assumptions

When making projections and assumptions it is essential to conduct research to establish credible forecasts.

Projections should encompass metrics such as revenue growth, margins, capital expenditure requirements, and working capital needs. Additionally, explicit assumptions should be made regarding elements like market size, market share, pricing strategies, and costs among others. Conducting sensitivity analysis can help stress test these assumptions.

Ensuring Upside to Current Valuation

Once you have determined the value of a company you can compare this value against its market capitalization. Look for the ultimate goal of valuation is to support your thesis that the company is undervalued. If the current market price exceeds your estimate of value it may be prudent to reassess your assumptions and analysis. The greater the upside potential identified within your analysis the stronger your conviction becomes in considering an investment opportunity.

Constructing Your Portfolio

When constructing your portfolio based on your investment thesis, you should diversify your holdings and size your positions appropriately based on conviction and risk tolerance.

Diversification

Your investment thesis should guide how you diversify your portfolio. For example, if your thesis focuses on emerging market consumer stocks, you would want exposure across multiple countries and consumer product categories. Diversifying appropriately helps manage overall portfolio risk. You want to avoid overexposure to any single company, sector, or country.

Position Sizing

When determining position sizes within your portfolio, larger positions should be allocated to your highest conviction ideas based on your investment thesis. However, position size should also be constrained based on your risk tolerance. Larger positions will drive portfolio performance but also increase volatility. 

Rebalancing

As market conditions change, rebalancing your portfolio involves  realigning holdings in line with your investment thesis. If certain positions have increased significantly in size, trimming them down and reallocating to underweight areas can improve diversification and risk-adjusted returns. Revisiting your thesis and rebalancing at regular intervals instills discipline in sticking to your core investment tenets.

Presenting to Investors

When presenting your investment thesis to investors it's crucial to communicate and address important information right from the start. Your objective is to explain your insights and build confidence in your ability to generate returns.

To begin - guide investors through your thesis, research process, and valuation methodology. Elaborate on the trends you've identified and analyze the company's growth drivers and competitive position. Share how you arrived at your valuation.

Next, emphasize your "edge”. The expertise, relationships, or analytical skills that give you an advantage in assessing this opportunity. Provide examples of investments you've made in the past by leveraging an edge to establish credibility

Lastly, demonstrate your risk management abilities by addressing challenges and risks. Outline the assumptions underlying your thesis and discuss scenarios where they may not hold true. Describe how you plan to monitor and mitigate risks related to regulations, supply chains, customer demand, or management execution. 

Implementing the Thesis

Once you have developed an investment thesis the next step is executing trades to construct a portfolio that aligns with your thesis. It is crucial to approach this process with strategic planning in order to achieve results.

When making investments it is important to allocate positions based on your level of confidence in each holding while also ensuring diversification. Generally speculative or higher risk assets should be given allocations that don’t jeopardize the portfolio as a whole.

Ongoing portfolio management necessitates actively monitoring performance against the expectations outlined in your investment thesis. By keeping track of metrics, business drivers, and macroeconomic factors you can gauge whether your thesis remains valid.

As new data emerges over time adjustments and rebalancing of your portfolio will likely be required. This involves reducing exposure to holdings where the original thesis has weakened or deteriorated while increasing exposure to emerging opportunities. 

Continuously refining your portfolio ensures that it remains closely aligned with your investment thesis as market conditions evolve. Successful investors remain adaptable. Adjust their allocations while keeping their long-term perspectives intact.

Updating the Investment Thesis

As time progresses it is crucial to revisit and update your investment thesis accordingly.

Markets are constantly changing and it is crucial to stay updated with information that emerges. Your initial assumptions may not always hold true which can lead to poor investment decisions if you stick to an investment thesis.

To ensure the relevance of your investment thesis periodically reassess all your assumptions and projections. Take a look at your growth estimates, address any emerging threats, and analyze how market sentiment has shifted. If there have been changes in the investment narrative it's essential to update your thesis

Incorporate insights from sources such as earnings reports, industry conferences, macroeconomic data, and more. I. Objectively evaluate if adjustments need to be made based on the information at hand.

The key here is flexibility; being able to adapt to information sets good investors apart from the average ones. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Developing an Investment Thesis

To ensure the success of your investment thesis it's important to steer clear of pitfalls. Here are a few common ones;

Lack of Diversification

Having an overconcentration in a sector, geography, or asset type can leave a portfolio vulnerable. For example, an investment thesis focused solely on fast-growing US tech companies could miss opportunities in emerging markets. 

Biased Assumptions

It's easy to fall into the trap of making projections that confirm your existing bias about a company's growth potential. Avoid exaggerated assumptions that are not grounded in facts, and remember that “hope” has historically been a bad investment strategy 

Ignoring New Information

Markets and companies are dynamic, so no investment thesis holds true forever. Do not blindly stick to your original assumptions if new data suggests your thesis is no longer valid. Be ready to change course if your investment case deteriorates. Failing to adapt can turn gains into losses.

To summarize this guide - here are the most important factors in an investment thesis ;

• Identifying economic trends and sector-specific opportunities to focus on when making investments.
• Conducting a thorough analysis of potential companies, for your portfolio including their products, customers, competitors, and management.
• Using valuation models such as discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis to determine a target value based on your projections.
• Creating a diverse portfolio by considering your confidence level and risk tolerance for each position.
• Clearly presenting your investment strategy and unique advantage to inspire confidence in investors.
• Consistently implementing your investment strategy when making buy or sell decisions.
• Monitoring your portfolio and assumptions, updating the thesis as needed based on new data.

Creating a thoughtful investment thesis takes rigorous research and ongoing discipline. However, it also establishes a framework to capitalize on the upside potential of emerging trends. Investors who take the time to develop a compelling thesis are more apt to outperform the market. With the right blend of macro perspective and individual security analysis, your investment thesis can unlock substantial value creation.

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Learn how to craft a compelling investment thesis to guide your investing decisions. This guide outlines the key components of an investment thesis, including identifying macro trends, analyzing companies, determining a valuation, building a portfolio, and monitoring your investments. Developing a thoughtful investment thesis is essential for generating outperformance in the market.

This comprehensive guide explains what fund administration is, the services and responsibilities of fund administrators, why it benefits investment funds, different types of funds administered, key attributes to look for in an administrator, when to engage an administrator, and how they can help build investor relationships. Learn the nuts and bolts of fund administration and how to leverage it for your hedge fund, private equity fund, real estate fund, or crypto fund.

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Writing a Credible Investment Thesis

by David Harding and Sam Rovit

Every deal your company proposes to do—big or small, strategic or tactical—should start with a clear statement how that particular deal would create value for your company. We call this the investment thesis . The investment thesis is no more or less than a definitive statement, based on a clear understanding of how money is made in your business, that outlines how adding this particular business to your portfolio will make your company more valuable. Many of the best acquirers write out their investment theses in black and white. Joe Trustey, managing partner of private equity and venture capital firm Summit Partners, describes the tool in one short sentence: "It tells me why I would want to own this business." 10

Perhaps you're rolling your eyes and saying to yourself, "Well, of course our company uses an investment thesis!" But unless you're in the private equity business—which in our experience is more disciplined in crafting investment theses than are corporate buyers—the odds aren't with you. For example, our survey of 250 senior executives across all industries revealed that only 29 percent of acquiring executives started out with an investment thesis (defined in that survey as a "sound reason for buying a company") that stood the test of time. More than 40 percent had no investment thesis whatsoever (!). Of those who did, fully half discovered within three years of closing the deal that their thesis was wrong.

Studies conducted by other firms support the conclusion that most companies are terrifyingly unclear about why they spend their shareholders' capital on acquisitions. A 2002 Accenture study, for example, found that 83 percent of executives surveyed admitted they were unable to distinguish between the value levers of M&A deals. 11 In Booz Allen Hamilton's 1999 review of thirty-four frequent acquirers, which focused chiefly on integration, unsuccessful acquirers admitted that they fished in uncharted waters. 12 They ranked "learning about new (and potentially related) business areas" as a top reason for making an acquisition. (Surely companies should know whether a business area is related to their core before they decide to buy into it!) Successful acquirers, by contrast, were more likely to cite "leading or responding to industry restructuring" as a reason for making an acquisition, suggesting that these companies had at least thought through the strategic implications of their moves.

Not that tipping one's hat to strategy is a cure-all. In our work with companies that are thinking about doing a deal, we often hear that the acquisition is intended for "strategic" reasons. That's simply not good enough. A credible investment thesis should describe a concrete benefit, rather than a vaguely stated strategic value.

This point needs underscoring. Justifying a deal as being "strategic" ex post facto is, in most cases, an invitation to inferior returns. Given how frequently we have heard weak "strategic" justifications after a deal has closed, it's worth passing along a warning from Craig Tall, vice chair of corporate development and strategic planning at Washington Mutual. In recent years, Tall's bank has made acquisitions a key part of a stunningly successful growth record. "When I see an expensive deal," Tall told us, "and they say it was a 'strategic' deal, it's a code for me that somebody paid too much." 13

And although sometimes the best offense is a good defense, this axiom does not really stand in for a valid investment thesis. On more than a few occasions, we have been witness to deals that were initiated because an investment banker uttered the Eight Magic Words: If you don't buy it, your competitors will.

Well, so be it. If a potential acquisition is not compelling to you on its own merits, let it go. Let your competitors put their good money down, and prove that their investment theses are strong.

Let's look at a case in point: [Clear Channel Communications' leaders Lowry, Mark, and Randall] Mayses' decision to move from radios into outdoor advertising (billboards, to most of us). Based on our conversations with Randall Mays, we summarize their investment thesis for buying into the billboard business as follows:

Clear Channel's expansion into outdoor advertising leverages the company's core competencies in two ways: First, the local market sales force that is already in place to sell radio ads can now sell outdoor ads to many of the same buyers, and Clear Channel is uniquely positioned to sell both local and national advertisements. Second, similar to the radio industry twenty years ago, the outdoor advertising industry is fragmented and undercapitalized. Clear Channel has the capital needed to "roll up" a significant fraction of this industry, as well as the cash flow and management systems needed to reduce operating expenses across a consolidated business.

Note that in Clear Channel's investment thesis (at least as we've stated it), the benefits would be derived from three sources:

• Leveraging an existing sales force more extensively
• Using the balance sheet to roll up and fund an undercapitalized business
• Applying operating skills learned in the radio trade

Note also the emphasis on tangible and quantifiable results, which can be easily communicated and tested. All stakeholders, including investors, employees, debtors, and vendors, should understand why a deal will make their company stronger. Does the investment thesis make sense only to those who know the company best? If so, that's probably a bad sign. Is senior management arguing that a deal's inherent genius is too complex to be understood by all stakeholders, or simply asserting that the deal is "strategic"? These, too, are probably bad signs.

Most of the best acquirers we've studied try to get the thesis down on paper as soon as possible. Getting it down in black and white—wrapping specific words around the ideas—allows them to circulate the thesis internally and to generate reactions early and often.

The perils of the "transformational" deal . Some readers may be wondering whether there isn't a less tangible, but equally credible, rationale for an investment thesis: the transformational deal. Such transactions, which became popular in the exuberant '90s, aim to turn companies (and sometimes even whole industries) on their head and "transform" them. In effect, they change a company's basis of competition through a dramatic redeployment of assets.

The roster of companies that have favored transformational deals includes Vivendi Universal, AOL Time Warner (which changed its name back to Time Warner in October 2003), Enron, Williams, and others. Perhaps that list alone is enough to turn our readers off the concept of the transformational deal. (We admit it: We keep wanting to put that word transformational in quotes.) But let's dig a little deeper.

Sometimes what looks like a successful transformational deal is really a case of mistaken identity. In search of effective transformations, people sometimes cite the examples of DuPont—which after World War I used M&A to transform itself from a maker of explosives into a broad-based leader in the chemicals industry—and General Motors, which, through the consolidation of several car companies, transformed the auto industry. But when you actually dissect the moves of such industry winners, you find that they worked their way down the same learning curve as the best-practice companies in our global study. GM never attempted the transformational deal; instead, it rolled up smaller car companies until it had the scale to take on a Ford—and win. DuPont was similarly patient; it broadened its product scope into a range of chemistry-based industries, acquisition by acquisition.

In a more recent example, Rexam PLC has transformed itself from a broad-based conglomerate into a global leader in packaging by actively managing its portfolio and growing its core business. Beginning in the late '90s, Rexam shed diverse businesses in cyclical industries and grew scale in cans. First it acquired Europe's largest beverage-can manufacturer, Sweden's PLM, in 1999. Then it bought U.S.–based packager American National Can in 2000, making itself the largest beverage-can maker in the world. In other words, Rexam acquired with a clear investment thesis in mind: to grow scale in can making or broaden geographic scope. The collective impact of these many small steps was transformation. 14

But what of the literal transformational deal? You saw the preceding list of companies. Our advice is unequivocal: Stay out of this high-stakes game. Recent efforts to transform companies via the megadeal have failed or faltered. The glamour is blinding, which only makes the route more treacherous and the destination less clear. If you go this route, you are very likely to destroy value for your shareholders.

By definition, the transformational deal can't have a clear investment thesis, and evidence from the movement of stock prices immediately following deal announcements suggests that the market prefers deals that have a clear investment thesis. In "Deals That Create Value," for example, McKinsey scrutinized stock price movements before and after 231 corporate transactions over a five-year period. 15 The study concluded that the market prefers "expansionist" deals, in which a company "seeks to boost its market share by consolidating, by moving into new geographic regions, or by adding new distribution channels for existing products and services."

On average, McKinsey reported, deals of the "expansionist" variety earned a stock market premium in the days following their announcement. By contrast, "transformative" deals—whereby companies threw themselves bodily into a new line of business—destroyed an average of 5.3 percent of market value immediately after the deal's announcement. Translating these findings into our own terminology:

• Expansionist deals are more likely to have a clear investment thesis, while "transformative" deals often have no credible rationale.
• The market is likely to reward the former and punish the latter.

The dilution/accretion debate . One more side discussion that comes to bear on the investment thesis: Deal making is often driven by what we'll call the dilution/accretion debate . We will argue that this debate must be taken into account as you develop your investment thesis, but your thesis making should not be driven by this debate.

Simply put, a deal is dilutive if it causes the acquiring company to have lower earnings per share (EPS) than it had before the transaction. As they teach in Finance 101, this happens when the asset return on the purchased business is less than the cost of the debt or equity (e.g., through the issuance of new shares) needed to pay for the deal. Dilution can also occur when an asset is sold, because the earnings power of the business being sold is greater than the return on the alternative use of the proceeds (e.g., paying down debt, redeeming shares, or buying something else). An accretive deal, of course, has the opposite outcomes.

But that's only the first of two shoes that may drop. The second shoe is, How will Wall Street respond? Will investors punish the company (or reward it) for its dilutive ways?

Aware of this two-shoes-dropping phenomenon, many CEOs and CFOs use the litmus test of earnings accretion/dilution as the first hurdle that should be put in front of every proposed deal. One of these skilled acquirers is Citigroup's [former] CFO Todd Thomson, who told us:

It's an incredibly powerful discipline to put in place a rule of thumb that deals have to be accretive within some [specific] period of time. At Citigroup, my rule of thumb is it has to be accretive within the first twelve months, in terms of EPS, and it has to reach our capital rate of return, which is over 20 percent return within three to four years. And it has to make sense both financially and strategically, which means it has to have at least as fast a growth rate as we expect from our businesses in general, which is 10 to 15 percent a year. Now, not all of our deals meet that hurdle. But if I set that up to begin with, then if [a deal is] not going to meet that hurdle, people know they better make a heck of a compelling argument about why it doesn't have to be accretive in year one, or why it may take year four or five or six to be able to hit that return level. 16

Unfortunately, dilution is a problem that has to be wrestled with on a regular basis. As Mike Bertasso, the head of H. J. Heinz's Asia-Pacific businesses, told us, "If a business is accretive, it is probably low-growth and cheap for a reason. If it is dilutive, it's probably high-growth and attractive, and we can't afford it." 17 Even if you can't afford them, steering clear of dilutive deals seems sensible enough, on the face of it. Why would a company's leaders ever knowingly take steps that would decrease their EPS?

The answer, of course, is to invest for the future. As part of the research leading up to this book, Bain looked at a hundred deals that involved EPS accretion and dilution. All the deals were large enough and public enough to have had an effect on the buyer's stock price. The result was surprising: First-year accretion and dilution did not matter to shareholders. In other words, there was no statistical correlation between future stock performance and whether the company did an accretive or dilutive deal. If anything, the dilutive deals slightly outperformed. Why? Because dilutive deals are almost always involved in buying higher-growth assets, and therefore by their nature pass Thomson's test of a "heck of a compelling argument."

Reprinted with permission of Harvard Business School Press. Mastering the Merger: Four Critical Decisions That Make or Break the Deal , by David Harding and Sam Rovit. Copyright 2004 Bain & Company; All Rights Reserved.

[ Buy this book ]

David Harding (HBS MBA '84) is a director in Bain & Company's Boston office and is an expert in corporate strategy and organizational effectiveness.

Sam Rovit (HBS MBA '89) is a director in the Chicago office and leader of Bain & Company's Global Mergers and Acquisitions Practice.

10. Joe Trustey, telephone interview by David Harding, Bain & Company. Boston: 13 May 2003. Subsequent comments by Trustey are also from this interview.

11. Accenture, "Accenture Survey Shows Executives Are Cautiously Optimistic Regarding Future Mergers and Acquisitions," Accenture Press Release, 30 May 2002.

12. John R. Harbison, Albert J. Viscio, and Amy T. Asin, "Making Acquisitions Work: Capturing Value After the Deal," Booz Allen & Hamilton Series of View-points on Alliances, 1999.

13. Craig Tall, telephone interview by Catherine Lemire, Bain & Company. Toronto: 1 October 2002.

14. Rolf Börjesson, interview by Tom Shannon, Bain & Company. London: 2001.

15. Hans Bieshaar, Jeremy Knight, and Alexander van Wassenaer, "Deals That Create Value," McKinsey Quarterly 1 (2001).

16. Todd Thomson, speaking on "Strategic M&A in an Opportunistic Environment." (Presentation at Bain & Company's Getting Back to Offense conference, New York City, 20 June 2002.)

17. Mike Bertasso, correspondence with David Harding, 15 December 2003.

VC Decision Making (Online): Developing an Investment Thesis

Navigate the changing trends in venture capital

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Create Your Own Venture Capital Strategy

Venture capital funding has experienced exponential growth in recent years. While the peak for venture capital in terms of dollar value has passed in the face of the global economic slowdown, the field continues to be one of tremendous opportunity — if you know where to find it.

In order to thrive in this fast-paced, volatile environment, venture capital professionals must stay abreast of trends and develop a solid investment thesis to help them navigate uncertainty and pinpoint viable opportunities.

Lead faculty Angela Lee is the founder of 37 Angels, an investing network that has evaluated 20,000 startups, invested in 90+ startups, and currently activates new investors through a startup investment boot camp. Join us to learn how to create a successful investment strategy and decision-making framework to improve venture fund performance and intelligently diversify your portfolio.

Global venture capital funding surged to $621B in 2021, two times more than in 2020, and around 10 times the level of 10 years ago.

Source: CB Insights

$132B invested in financial services in 2021, which is 169 percent year-over-year growth and 21 percent of total venture funding.

62 percent of all venture capital deals are early-stage deals.

Key Takeaways

By the end of the program, you will be able to:

• Determine the best investment strategy for your portfolio
• Establish your criteria for industries and business models to invest in
• Understand the risk/return trade-offs between investing in different stages
• Recognize and navigate trends that are transforming the venture capital market and uncover upcoming opportunities

Who Should Attend?

This advanced-level program is designed specifically for mid-career venture capital professionals interested in exploring the evolution of the venture capital landscape and identifying emerging startup trends and technologies in which to invest.

Program Modules

Get a refresher on the venture capital industry and self-assess your current knowledge. Identify the venture capital players, risks, rewards, and funding stages, and navigate the venture capital deal flow process.

Compare existing startup investment strategies and determine the investment strategy that works best for your portfolio.

Identify components of an investment thesis, evaluate real-world investment thesis examples, and build your own criteria for industries and business models in which you want to invest.

Understand the best stages in which to invest and how they benefits your portfolio. Compare methods used to mark up a portfolio.

Explore technology trends that have transformed the market and how to spot upcoming opportunities. Apply a framework to plan for uncertainties and decide on the trends that can add value.

Learn how to get — and stay — ahead of the curve with your investment strategies. Learn the differences between structural and cyclical changes, which help you make informed investment decisions.

Program Experience

World-Renowned Faculty

Learn from accomplished faculty, and industry experts whose diverse backgrounds encompass a broad range of disciplines

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Accomplished academics and experts offer unique perspectives and the opportunity to put learning into practice

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Professor of Professional Practice in Finance, Faculty Director, the Eugene Lang Entrepreneurship Center, Columbia Business School

Angela Lee Professor of Professional Practice in Finance, Faculty Director, the Eugene Lang Entrepreneurship Center, Columbia Business School Angela Lee is an award-winning professor and former Chief Innovation Officer at Columbia Business School, where she teaches venture capital and leadership programs. She started her career in product management and then moved to consulting at McKinsey. She founded 4 startups and is also the founder of 37 Angels, an investing network that has evaluated over 20,000 companies and invested in over 90+ companies. She also serves as a venture partner at Fresco Capital, an early-stage venture fund that focuses on the future of work, digital health, and sustainability. She was awarded the Dean's Award for Teaching Excellence at Columbia Business School in 2020 and won the Singhvi Prize for Scholarship in the Classroom in 2022. Angela has spoken at the White House and NASA and is an expert in teaching online and making learning scalable. She is a sought-after expert on CNBC, Bloomberg TV, MSNBC, and Fox Business. She was recognized by Inc . as one of 17 Inspiring Women to Watch, by Entrepreneur Magazine as one of 6 Innovative Women to Watch, and by Crain’s as a Notable Women in Tech.

Elliott Robinson Partner, Growth Equity, Bessemer Venture Partners Elliott Robinson is a partner and co-founder of the growth investment practice at Bessemer, where he focuses primarily on cloud software investments, and is a board member of a number of organizations. Prior to Bessemer, he was a partner with M12, a vice president at Georgian Partners, and an associate with Syncom Venture Partners (where he led investments in organizations such as Canva, Forter, and Statespace). He earned his MBA from Columbia Business School and his BS from Morehouse College.

Hilary Gosher Managing Director, Insight Partners Since joining Insight Partners two decades ago, Hilary has played a role in some of the most exciting growth journeys in SaaS history. She founded and leads Insight Onsite, a team that accelerates growth at Insight's portfolio organizations. In addition, she is an adjunct associate professor at Columbia Business School. She holds an MBA from INSEAD in France along with a BA and LLB from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.

Certificate

Upon completion of the VC Decision Making (Online): Developing an Investment Thesis program, you will receive a certificate of participation from Columbia Business School Executive Education — a powerful testament to your management capabilities — and add two days toward a Certificate in Business Excellence .

Your verified digital certificate will be issued in your legal name and emailed to you, at no additional cost, upon completion of the program as per the stipulated requirements. All certificate images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of Columbia Business School Executive Education.

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More than 300,000 learners across 200 countries have chosen to advance their skills with Emeritus and its educational learning partners. In fact, 90 percent of the respondents of a recent survey across all our programs said that their learning outcomes were met or exceeded. All the contents of the course would be made available to students at the commencement of the course. However, to ensure the program delivers the desired learning outcomes the students may appoint Emeritus to manage the delivery of the program in a cohort-based manner the cost of which is already included in the overall course fee of the course. A dedicated program support team is available 24/5 (Monday to Friday) to answer questions about the learning platform, technical issues, or anything else that may affect your learning experience.

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Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week, so you can gauge what will be required before you enroll. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page. All programs are designed to fit into your working life. This program is scored as a pass or no-pass; participants must complete the required activities to pass and obtain the certificate of completion. Some programs include a final project submission or other assignments to obtain passing status. This information will be noted in the program brochure. Please email us if you need further clarification on any specific program requirements.

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• Intapp DealCloud

How to create a clear private equity investment thesis

Ben Harrison

President, Industries

For every dozen private equity deals, only one or two generate significant returns to their investors, according to Investopedia. The biggest reason why deals either fail to deliver or fall through altogether : Firms often neglect to deal with red flags early on in an agreement. To help determine whether a deal will be profitable, private equity firms must first establish a clear, concise investment thesis.

A private equity investment thesis is an evidence-based case built in favor of a particular investment opportunity. It opens with a two- to three-sentence argument showing how the potential deal supports a general partner’s fund investment strategy, then provides details that support that conclusion.

An investment thesis is required for all buy-side dealmakers. Beyond fulfilling a requirement, the detailed proposition serves to:

• Crystallize the group’s tactical plan, putting strategy into action
• Inform intermediaries, investors, and fellow partners what’s at stake if the firm does — or doesn’t — invest
• Answer the variety of questions that arise throughout a typical transaction

Follow these next steps to create a winning private capital markets investment thesis and identify the best opportunities for your firm.

Detail macroeconomic factors

To create a successful investment thesis, firms must first answer global and niche-agnostic economic questions. This will help set the stage for the acquisition target to shine against a macro backdrop.

Start by listing any relevant current headlines , political and social developments, and even consumer trends that are affecting investments across the board. These news stories will remind investors what they and your potential portfolio companies (portcos) are facing today.

For example, you might list the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s most recent proposals, e-commerce adoption, or European political volatility as factors that are affecting investments. Detail the way these factors are helping or hindering the private capital markets in general.

You should also list headlines that affect the acquisition target’s industry, sector, and subsector, and explain whether these developments favor growth for your private company. For example, if a general partner’s acquisition target was in the durable goods manufacturing space, the principal would include the U.S. freight transportation services index (TSI) as a macroeconomic factor in his investment thesis, and would describe how its recovery predicts smoother supply chains to ease investor worries. Similarly, you can explain in your investment thesis how your portco will be positioned competitively among its sector rivals.

Risks aren’t traditionally included in investment theses, but you can include them if they strengthen your macroeconomic analysis . You may want to include factors such as whether global or national conditions oppose the potential portco’s growth or the investment’s performance. You can also describe how your acquisition target would sidestep or weather those pitfalls.

Bain & Co. experts recently declared that macroeconomic instability is dealmaking’s number-one enemy . Position your investment thesis to shine by having a good handle on macroeconomic factors.

Detail microeconomic factors

The macroeconomic information you gather can help you drill down into more granular information about an investment opportunity . Narrow your proposed direction by including microeconomic details about company-level questions to your investment thesis. Try to answer questions such as:

• Why do you believe the target’s founder or owner will lead the company to growth? Describe ways the current CEO demonstrates innovative, creative problem-solving and strong leadership.
• What do the company’s financial statements reveal about the business’s record-keeping? Are the reports straightforward and easy to read? Before due diligence, investigate the business’s financials to uncover thesis-supporting insights.
• What do the company’s financial statements reveal about the viability of the business? Are there clues as to how leadership has handled finances at key inflection points? How much variance does each metric — such as return on equity, profit, return on assets, and earnings per share — exhibit?
• How has the company navigated cash flow surprises in the past? Surprises can include headwinds and windfalls, and an event like a spike in the company’s quick ratio must be handled with as much finesse as a cash shortage. What proof is there that the business keeps growing sustainably amid short-term volatility ?
• How has the company used seed money? James W. Frick, former Vice President of Public Relations at the University of Notre Dame, famously said, “Don’t tell me where your priorities are. Show me where you spend your money and I’ll tell you what they are.” When you look at previous injections , don’t just analyze the company’s capital efficiency. Draw conclusions about what the team prioritizes, such as growth over client retention.
• What opportunities are there for better cost management? Are there areas where the business is spinning its wheels and expending resources without gaining effective traction? Could certain actions — such as managing talent differently, renegotiating vendor agreement terms, or terminating a failed market expansion — efficiently address these areas ?
• What’s the company’s reputation like? Consider hiring a market research firm to perform an exploratory branding assessment. Take it to the next level by gathering observations from clients, employees, and vendors. If any quotes prove highly relevant, include them in your investment thesis.
• In what ways are competitors excelling or lagging? The ideal investment is in a market where rivals are failing to innovate. Does your target acquisition have what it takes to exploit market conditions faster and better than competitors?
• What could go wrong? The best investment theses don’t deny risks but instead address them at an early stage. As you list potential pitfalls, identify ways the private equity firm’s management team can dodge or defuse these hazards .

Consider the professionals at Morgan Stanley , who use three questions to formulate the microeconomic portions of their investment theses.

• Agility and defensibility — Is the company a disruptor or is it insulated from disruptive change?
• Financial viability of the business — Does the company demonstrate financial strength with high returns on invested capital, high margins, strong cash conversion, low capital intensity, and low leverage?
• ESG (environmental, social, and governmental) and the responsibility to do no harm — Are there environmental or social externalities not borne by the company, or are there governance and accounting risks that may alter the investment thesis?

Once you’ve compiled a substantial body of information to use in your investment thesis, sort the details by order of importance. Each deal’s details should be arranged differently since each investment is unique.

Establish and describe the trade setup

The final component of a good investment thesis answers the question, “So what?” It offers bold implications of the micro- and macroanalysis you just performed, and reveals what your next steps should be .

To describe the proposed trade, explain how the micro and macro factors will work together to increase carry for partners and returns for limited partners. Propound an entry point or “ setup price ,” and describe how you arrived at your proposed acquisition’s target price. Industries — and different private equity firms within those spaces — vary in how they calculate reasonable prices.

Keep in mind that the industry standard expects your firm to find the product of estimated earnings and your expected multiple. For example:

• Estimated earnings × EV/EBITDA = target price
• Estimated earnings × FCF/market capital = target price
• Estimated earnings × Price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio = target price

In your investment thesis, explain why your firm uses a particular multiple and how it came to estimate future earnings . Be sure to include these details as a footnote or sidenote for more curious readers.

Once you’ve proposed a purchase price, describe why the buy side should value the business at that entry point. You may need to briefly repeat what you’ve stated in your micro- and macroeconomic research findings, but within the context of your financial investment.

You should also outline what will happen if you choose not to invest in a particular business. Will the current owners keep their stake, or will a rival scoop them up ? Will a competitor fumble the operational improvements or liquidate too early or late? Or will the competitor execute brilliantly, generate alpha, and solidify or even expand its limited partner pool?

Finally, you must weave in a capital plan to detail how your investors’ committed capital will improve company profits for either returns or reinvestments. The capital plan outlines some of the strategic moves and operational improvements you believe will generate short-term wins and future sustainable growth. It should include no more than three or four actions; for example, you could include initiatives like increasing dividends or paying down debt to put free cash flow to work.

To wrap up the investment thesis, discuss how the deal would work into and support the fund’s overall investment strategy. Detail ways your firm brings a competitive advantage to the deal. Have your partners demonstrated acumen with similar deals? List the reasons why you’re the company’s best bet for making above-market returns.

Summarize your investment thesis

Now that you’ve built a complete — but also quite complex — investment thesis, it’s time to develop a clear, effective presentation . General partners distill their investment theses into bite-size, portable overviews that are more memorable and digestible for their audiences. Concisely summarizing your thesis will:

• Help busy readers better understand your thesis. For skimmers and scanners who want to skip around your thesis, a synopsis gives them a starting and ending point.
• Steer future investments, further defining your role in your niche. If, for example, a particular investment thesis persuades limited partners and intermediaries to commit to an event-based investment, you may become a firm known for that type of strategy.
• Provide you with a successful deal that you can use as an example during events like employee training, marketing, and roadshows. Imagine one of your vice presidents attends a trade event and meets an esteemed limited partner who expresses interest in your firm’s most recent deal. A quick investment thesis summary is the perfect way to explain the deal and further the partner’s interest.
• Set up a memorial to look back on. As the investment’s time horizon approaches, your team should reflect on how the deal began and what twists and turns you and your portco navigated along the way. This exercise will help prepare your team for future scenarios and investment opportunities.

Examples of investment thesis summaries

Authors David Harding and Sam Rovit highlighted a summary of Clear Channel’s merger-specific investment thesis. The media company had decided to expand into outdoor advertising sales and needed to build its case and present it to stakeholders. Note the three concrete benefits the company describes in detail:

Clear Channel’s expansion into outdoor advertising leverages the company’s core competencies in two ways: First, the local market sales force that is already in place to sell radio ads can now sell outdoor ads to many of the same buyers, and Clear Channel is uniquely positioned to sell both local and national advertisements . Second, much like the radio industry 20 years ago, the outdoor advertising industry is fragmented and undercapitalized. Clear Channel has the capital needed to ‘roll up’ a significant fraction of this industry, as well as the cash flow and management systems needed to reduce operating expenses across a consolidated business.

This summary explains that the acquiring executives planned to generate returns by:

• Using existing talent and preventing costs usually associated with successful deals
• Applying skills and processes from one sector to improve the newly added operation
• Combining assets or “ rolling up ” to share costs and benefits through a newly formed industry rather than fragmented sectors

Best of all, the summary uses a single paragraph to get the job done.

Here are a few examples from dealmakers in other private capital markets:

• Private equity — Read the overviews of investment theses from Arcspring , Sun Capital Partners , WestView Capital Partners , and Safanad , a team that clearly communicates its commitment to private equity with real estate incorporated.
• Real estate private equity (REPE) — CrowdStreet articulately summarizes how and why the firm invests, and it states its intentions by asset class and sector. The synopsis covers hospitality, industrials, health care, multifamily, office space, retail, self-storage, senior care, student housing, and life sciences.
• Impact investing — The FSIG and Creatella investment thesis summaries are clear and give a high-level flyover of the model deal’s macro- and microeconomics.
• Venture capital — Wavemaker Partners , Chloe Capital , and La Poste Ventures substitute corporate language with simpler and more digestible terms.

What to do with your new investment thesis

An investment thesis is more than a report: It’s the developing narrative of a successful deal. You’ll likely need to update your thesis and presentation more than once, and in a variety of ways, throughout the lifecycle of the investment.

Publish the investment thesis in your team’s internal deal management system, and assign permissions to those who refer to the plan often. Set up notifications so that you receive alerts whenever someone comments or edits the investment thesis. If your current deal management system doesn’t support this level of effective collaboration, contact DealCloud to request a demo today.

Remember: Successful deals start with successful investment theses. Don’t let investors wade into a transaction before taking the steps above to identify red flags and create an evidence-based plan that everyone can buy into.

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Investment Thesis Template

Create your own investment thesis slide with this free template

Prior to becoming a Founder for Curiocity, Hassan worked for Houlihan Lokey as an Investment Banking Analyst focusing on sellside and buyside  M&A , restructurings, financings and strategic advisory engagements across industry groups.

Hassan holds a  BS  from the University of Pennsylvania in Economics.

Currently, Adin is an associate at Berkshire Partners, an $16B middle-market private equity fund. Prior to joining Berkshire Partners, Adin worked for just over three years at The  Boston Consulting Group as  an associate and consultant and previously interned for the Federal Reserve Board and the U.S. Senate.

Adin graduated from Yale University, Magna Cum Claude, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics.

This template allows you to create your own investment thesis slide detailing your overall strategy.

The template is plug-and-play , and you can enter your own text or numbers. The template also includes other slide pages for other elements of a financial model presentation.

According to the WSO Dictionary ,

"An investment thesis aims to take an abstract idea and turn it into a functional investment strategy. An investment thesis helps investors evaluate investment ideas, ideally guiding them in selecting the best ideas that can help meet their investment objectives."

A screenshot below gives you a sneak peek of the template.

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Investment Thesis: An Argument in Support of Investing Decisions

October 29, 2023 by Abi Tyas Tunggal

An investment thesis is a well-reasoned argument that supports a specific investment decision, playing a vital role in the strategic planning process for individual investors and businesses alike. It comprises detailed research and analysis to evaluate an investment's potential profitability. A good investment thesis serves multiple purposes, including helping in the decision-making process, providing a comprehensive framework for monitoring and assessment, and offering a structured approach to identifying potential opportunities.

There are different types of investment strategies, such as venture capital , private equity, and long-term value investments. The core of an investment thesis involves identifying key parameters for evaluating an investment, understanding the unique market dynamics and competitive landscape, and realizing how to create value through strategic planning. To ensure a comprehensive and detailed investment thesis, it is crucial to involve thorough research, considering emerging trends and opportunities, and incorporating industry case studies for better understanding. Ultimately, financial statements and valuation metrics play a significant role in determining a well-suited investment decision.

Key Takeaways

• An investment thesis is a well-reasoned, research-based argument supporting a specific investment decision
• There are several types of investment strategies, and a well-structured investment thesis addresses market dynamics and competition to create value
• Research, valuation metrics, and understanding emerging trends are crucial in crafting a compelling investment ideas

Defining an Investment Thesis

An investment thesis is a well-structured, logical argument that justifies a particular investment decision, based on thorough research and analysis. It is essential for investors, as well as financial professionals in the domains of investment banking, private equity, hedge funds, and venture capital funds . A confident and knowledgeable investor will build out clear investment criteria to successfully navigate the investment landscape.

The primary purpose of an investment thesis is to outline the reasons and expected outcomes of a proposed investment, often focusing on the potential for growth and profit. This document offers a roadmap for investors, guiding them through their decision-making process, and helping to ensure that they arrive at rational and informed conclusions. A comprehensive investment thesis should consider various aspects, such as market conditions, competitive landscape, and financial performance of the targeted asset or company.

A strong investment thesis is built on rigorous market research and analysis. This involves evaluating historical and current financial information, as well as scrutinizing industry trends and the overall economic environment. Skilled investors will also incorporate their expertise in the industry to better assess the merits of an investment opportunity. This level of thoroughness creates a confidently expressed thesis, allowing investors to remain steadfast in their investment decisions, even amid market volatility.

In summary, an investment thesis plays a pivotal role in the investing process. It presents a well-reasoned argument, grounded in extensive research and clear analysis, that supports an investment decision. Crafting a robust investment thesis is crucial for both individual and institutional investors as it provides a solid foundation for investment choices and ensures the alignment of investment strategies with long-term objectives.

Importance of Research in Crafting an Investment Thesis

Thorough research is a crucial aspect of creating a solid investment thesis. It allows investors to gather vital information and insights that will help guide their investment decisions. There are several elements to consider while conducting this research, with data analysis, understanding risks, and returns being essential components.

Data Analysis

Data analysis forms the backbone of any research conducted for crafting an investment thesis. It involves collecting, organizing, and interpreting various types of data, such as financial statements, market trends, and industry forecasts, to identify patterns and make informed predictions about a potential investment opportunity. A comprehensive data analysis can help investors make confident choices based on reliable information, which is essential for a successful investment strategy.

Some key data analysis techniques used in crafting an investment thesis include:

• Comparative analysis: Comparing the performance of different companies within the same industry to identify investment opportunities.
• Trend analysis: Monitoring historical data to determine patterns and potential future developments.
• Financial statement analysis: Examining the financial health of a company through its balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.

Understanding Risks and Returns

One of the primary goals of research in developing an investment thesis is to assess the risk/reward profile of a potential investment. This involves evaluating the potential risks associated with the investment and weighing them against the expected returns. A sound investment thesis should demonstrate a clear understanding of these risks and offer a rationale for why the investment’s potential returns make it a worthwhile addition to a portfolio.

Some common risks to consider when crafting an investment thesis include:

• Market risk: The risk of an investment losing value due to fluctuations in the market.
• Credit risk: The risk that a company or issuer of a financial instrument may default on its obligations.
• Operational risk: The risk of losses arising from failed internal processes, systems, or personnel within a business.

Evaluating these risks requires investors to develop a deep understanding of the investment opportunity, its industry, and the factors that may impact its performance. A diligent and systematic approach to research can help investors identify potential risks and gains, leading to informed and confident decision-making in crafting a strong investment thesis.

Types of Investment Strategy

When it comes to crafting an investment thesis, selecting an appropriate investment strategy is crucial. In this section, we will discuss two popular strategies: Value Investing and Growth Investing.

Value Investing

Value investing is a strategy that focuses on identifying undervalued stocks or assets in the market. These investments typically have lower valuations, which are reflected in their price-to-earnings ratios or book values. The central idea behind value investing is that the market may sometimes undervalue a company or asset, presenting an opportunity for investors willing to do thorough research and analysis.

The process of value investing involves:

• Fundamental analysis : Evaluating a company's financial health, management, and competitive advantages
• Value metrics : Identifying various valuation metrics, such as price-to-earnings, price-to-book, and dividend yield
• Margin of safety : Discovering investment opportunities with a built-in cushion to reduce the risk of loss

Famous investors, such as Warren Buffett and Benjamin Graham, have implemented value investing strategies to achieve long-term success.

Growth Investing

On the other hand, growth investing centers on companies that are expected to grow at an above-average rate compared to their industry. Growth investors seek opportunities in businesses they believe will offer substantial capital appreciation through rapid expansion or market-share gains. They prioritize the potential for future profit over the stock's valuation.

Features of growth investing include:

• High expectations : Companies targeted by growth investors typically have a history of robust revenue and profit growth
• Momentum : Investors seek stocks with upward price momentum, as increasing demand for these stocks may drive prices even higher
• Risk tolerance : Growth stocks can be volatile, and investors must be prepared to weather price swings

Renowned growth investors like Peter Lynch and Phil Fisher have demonstrated the effectiveness of growth investing throughout their careers.

Both value and growth investing strategies have their unique advantages and require different levels of risk tolerance. Investors should carefully consider their investment thesis and select a strategy that aligns with their objectives and risk appetite.

Venture Capital and Private Equity Investment Theses

When considering investments in private companies, venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) firms each have their own unique strategies encapsulated within their respective investment theses. These theses provide guidance on the focus of investments, the sectors or geographies of interest, and the stage of the target companies.

Learn more about the differences between private equity and venture capital .

Venture Capital Investment Thesis

A venture capital investment thesis outlines how a VC fund aims to make money for its investors, typically referred to as Limited Partners (LPs). This strategy identifies crucial factors such as the stage of companies the fund will invest in, commonly early-stage companies, the targeted geography, and specific sectors of focus.

The thesis may vary depending on a venture capitalist's unique specialization, with some firms concentrating on a specific vertical and stage, while others invest more broadly without a core thesis driving their decisions. The underlying objective of a VC investment thesis is to outline how the firm will achieve high returns on investment by supporting and nurturing the growth of portfolio companies.

Private Equity Investment Thesis

In contrast, a private equity investment thesis is an evidence-based case in support of a particular investment opportunity. It usually begins with a concise argument illustrating how the potential deal supports the fund's general investment strategy. The thesis then provides details that substantiate this preliminary conclusion.

Private equity firms often target more established companies compared to venture capital firms, focusing on businesses with a proven track record. The PE investment thesis may identify areas where operational improvements, strategic mergers, or better capital structures could enhance value, ultimately generating a good return for the firm and its investors.

Overall, both venture capital and private equity investment theses serve as critical frameworks guiding investment decisions. They not only help align these decisions with a firm's specialized strategy but also provide a basis for evaluating potential deals to ensure they contribute to the firm's goals and long-term value creation.

Key Parameters for Evaluating an Investment

When assessing the viability of an investment, it is essential to examine various key parameters to make informed decisions. By analyzing these factors, investors can gain a deeper understanding of a company's financial health and its potential for growth.

One vital metric to consider is earnings per share (EPS) , which represents the portion of a company's profit attributed to each outstanding share of its common stock. A higher EPS indicates higher earnings and suggests that the company may be a lucrative investment opportunity.

Another fundamental metric is the return on assets (ROA) , which measures the effectiveness of a company in using its assets to generate profit. The higher the ROA, the better the company is at utilizing its assets to generate earnings. Similarly, return on equity (ROE) is a measure of financial performance that calculates the proportion of net income generated by a company's equity. A higher ROE demonstrates the efficient usage of shareholders' investments.

Conducting a thorough analysis of the company's financial statements is crucial. This includes reviewing income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. By doing so, investors can gain insights into the company's profitability, liquidity, and solvency.

Another important factor to consider is a company's cash position. Adequate cash reserves enable a company to meet its short-term obligations and invest in growth opportunities. On the other hand, a lack of cash can leave a company vulnerable to market fluctuations and financial stress.

It is also essential to evaluate a company's capital structure, which refers to the proportion of debt and equity financing it uses to fund its operations. A balanced capital structure ensures financial stability, while excessive debt may lead to financial distress.

Examining a company's debt level is crucial, as it can directly impact the company's financial flexibility and risk profile. A high level of debt can hinder a company's ability to grow and adapt to changes in the market, making it a less attractive investment option.

Assessing a company's assets and how they're managed plays a significant role in evaluating an investment opportunity. This includes tangible assets, such as property and equipment, and intangible assets, such as patents and trademarks. Effective asset management contributes to a company's ability to generate profit.

Finally, it is important to scrutinize a company's costs associated with its operations, such as production costs and overhead expenses. A company that efficiently manages its costs will likely generate higher profitability and provide better returns for investors.

Creating Value through Strategic Planning

Strategic planning plays a crucial role in creating value for investors and businesses. It serves as the foundation for effective decision-making and guides companies towards achieving their goals. Through strategic planning, management teams can identify and focus on core competencies that contribute to a company's competitive advantage.

One way to create value is to prioritize revenue growth. By identifying key growth drivers, such as product innovation or market expansion, companies can allocate resources accordingly to boost earnings. Such targeted investments in growth engines allow firms to capture a larger market share and drive long-term profitability.

Another aspect of strategic planning involves optimizing a company's holdings. By assessing the existing portfolio, management can decide whether to divest underperforming assets or make strategic acquisitions that align with their investment thesis. The right combinations and adjustments can significantly enhance a company's overall performance and shareholder value.

Risk management is also an essential aspect of strategic planning. Companies must assess potential risks and incorporate suitable mitigation measures in their plans. This ensures that organizations are prepared for unforeseen circumstances, which can safeguard profits and protect the company's assets.

Furthermore, creating value requires continuous improvement and adaptation to market trends. Companies should routinely reevaluate their strategies to identify both internal and external factors that may impact their current position. By setting clearly defined objectives and quantifiable financial targets, management teams can measure their progress effectively and adjust their strategic plans as needed.

In summary , creating value through strategic planning involves a combination of focusing on core competencies, prioritizing revenue growth, optimizing holdings, managing risk, and continuously reassessing the company's strategic direction. This holistic approach can help businesses enhance their profitability, strengthen their market position, and ultimately deliver strong value creation to investors.

Understanding the Market and Competition

Before developing an investment thesis, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of the market and its competition. The stock market is influenced by various factors such as economic supercycles, bear markets, and secular trends. Analyzing these elements will provide a solid foundation to recognize potential investment opportunities.

An economic supercycle is a long-term pattern that occurs over several decades, during which the economy undergoes periods of growth and contraction. Investors need to be aware of the current phase and how it may impact their investment decisions. For instance, during a growth period, certain industries tend to outperform, while others may underperform during a contraction phase.

In addition to analyzing these market conditions, investors must also pay heed to the competitive landscape of the sector in which they plan to invest. Examining the competitors within the industry enables one to identify companies with competitive advantages, which may lead to superior performance. These advantages can stem from factors such as lower costs, innovation, or a dominant market share.

A bear market occurs when the stock market experiences a prolonged decline, typically characterized by a decrease of 20% or more from recent highs. In such environments, it becomes even more crucial for investors to understand the competitive dynamics within an industry to identify resilient companies that can withstand market downturns.

A secular trend is a long-term movement in a particular direction that can last for several years or even decades. Identifying secular trends within industries is essential to spotting opportunities for long-term growth. For example, investors may capitalize on sectors benefiting from a shift towards clean energy usage or the increasing importance of artificial intelligence.

In summary, understanding the market and competition requires a deep analysis of the stock market, economic supercycles, bear markets, and secular trends. By researching industry trends, evaluating market opportunities, and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of competitors, investors can develop a robust investment thesis that increases the likelihood of achieving long-term returns.

Industry Case Studies

In the investment world, the importance of an investment thesis cannot be overstated. By examining various industry case studies, we can gain insight into how businesses make strategic investments to enhance their value. In this section, we'll discuss notable examples from companies such as DuPont, General Motors, Rexam PLC, and Clear Channel Communications.

DuPont is a leading science and innovation company with a focus on agriculture, advanced materials, and industrial biosciences. During its acquisition of Dow Chemical, DuPont developed a robust investment thesis to justify the merger. Their investment case relied on the belief that the combined entity would benefit from increased operational efficiencies, new market opportunities, and enhanced innovation capabilities. This approach provided a strong rationale for the deal, which has created a more competitive company in the global market.

General Motors (GM) , a multinational automobile manufacturer, crafted its investment thesis in response to evolving trends in the automotive industry, such as the increasing importance of emissions reduction, electrification, and autonomous technology. GM's investment case centered on embracing these trends, focusing on innovation, and expanding its product offerings through strategic M&A, investments, and partnerships. For example, GM has made significant investments in electric vehicles and autonomous driving technology, positioning the company for future growth in these areas.

Next, we have Rexam PLC , a former British packaging manufacturer that was a leading producer of beverage cans globally. When Ball Corporation sought to acquire Rexam, they developed an investment thesis based on the value derived from combining the two companies' strengths. This thesis outlined the strategic fit between both companies, synergies from combining production capabilities, and projected growth, particularly in developing markets. The successful acquisition helped Ball Corporation consolidate its position as a global leader in the packaging industry.

Lastly, Clear Channel Communications is a media company specializing in outdoor advertising. As the company sought to expand its presence in this sector, it created an investment thesis centered around leveraging its core competence in outdoor advertising and acquiring strategic assets. One example is Clear Channel's acquisition of crucial billboard locations to solidify its competitive edge in the outdoor advertising market. This targeted growth strategy has allowed Clear Channel to remain a dominant player in the industry.

In conclusion, these industry case studies demonstrate the value of a well-crafted investment thesis. Effective investment theses provide a roadmap for companies to pursue strategic acquisitions and investments that create long-term value, while also helping investors evaluate the viability of proposed deals. By understanding how companies like DuPont, General Motors, Rexam PLC, and Clear Channel Communications have strategically invested in the market, we can better appreciate the importance of a well-structured investment thesis.

Long-Term Investment Strategies

A long-term investment strategy refers to an approach where investors hold onto their investments for an extended period, typically more than one year. This type of strategy aims to achieve the investment goal by allowing assets to grow through market fluctuations and capitalizing on the power of compounding interest. Diversification and patience play pivotal roles in ensuring the success of a long-term investment strategy.

Portfolio managers often use various techniques and methods to craft long-term investment portfolios. Some of these techniques include targeting undervalued sectors or stocks, dividend reinvestment plans, dollar-cost averaging, and asset allocation. By employing these strategies, portfolio managers increase chances of achieving their clients' investment goals over time.

In order to develop long-term investment strategies, investors should first define their investment goal . This could include objectives such as saving for retirement, funding a child's college education, or purchasing a home. Clear investment goals help in designing an appropriate investment strategy, taking into account factors like the investor's risk tolerance, time horizon, and available capital.

One key aspect of a successful long-term strategy is diversification . Diversifying across asset classes and industries allows investors to spread risks and potentially achieve higher risk-adjusted returns. A well-diversified portfolio will typically consist of a mix of stocks, bonds, and other asset types, with variations in investment size, industry sector, and geographical location. This diversified approach minimizes the impact of underperforming investments on the overall portfolio.

Another crucial element in long-term investing is patience . Market fluctuations can be tempting for investors to react to their emotions and make impulsive decisions, which could derail a well-thought-out investment strategy. Maintaining a disciplined approach and sticking to one's investment plan, even during periods of market volatility, is paramount to achieving long-term success.

In conclusion, long-term investment strategies require investors to define clear goals, diversify their portfolio, and exercise patience in the face of market fluctuations. By adhering to these principles, investors and portfolio managers can steer a course towards achieving their investment objectives.

Emerging Trends and Opportunities

In recent years, various emerging trends have presented attractive opportunities for investors. Among these trends, renewable energy, megatrends, and the coffee shop market stand out as sectors with significant potential for growth.

Renewable energy has gained considerable attention and investment as a response to the global push for addressing climate change and reducing emissions. Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are some of the most prominent technologies in this sector. With an increased interest in clean energy from both governments and consumers, companies in this space are poised to experience substantial growth.

Megatrends such as urbanization, aging populations, and technological advancements are also influencing investment opportunities. These large-scale shifts provide a backdrop for businesses to tap into new markets and adjust their strategies to capitalize on these changes. For instance, companies working in healthcare and biotechnology may benefit from catering to the needs of an aging population, while businesses focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and automation may find increased demand due to technological advancements.

The coffee shop market, too, presents investment opportunities. This industry has experienced robust growth in recent years as consumers increasingly seek out unique, high-quality coffee experiences. Independent and specialty coffee shops are at the forefront of this trend. Niche coffee shops that offer novel and authentic experiences have seen success by catering to the specialized preferences of today's consumers. As the demand for artisanal and premium beverages continues to rise, businesses operating in this space can expect to have ample opportunities for growth.

In conclusion, current emerging trends such as renewable energy, megatrends, and the coffee shop market offer a wealth of investment opportunities. As these sectors continue to develop and evolve, investors with well-informed investment theses stand to benefit from the potential rewards in these growing industries.

Role of Financial Statements and Valuation Metrics

Financial statements play a vital role in the investment thesis by providing crucial information about a company's financial health and performance. They consist of the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement, which offer insights into the company's assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and cash flows. Investors use these statements to assess the company's past performance, current financial condition, and potential for future growth.

Valuation metrics, on the other hand, are vital yardsticks that investors use to compare different investment opportunities and make informed decisions. These metrics include price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, price-to-sales (P/S) ratio, price-to-book (P/B) ratio, dividend yield, and return on equity (ROE), among others. By analyzing these ratios, investors can gauge a company's value relative to its peers and make better investment choices.

Analysts and investors scrutinize financial statements to identify growth trends, profitability, and financial stability. For instance, they may calculate the gross margin, operating margin, and net profit margin to determine the company's profitability across different stages of its operations. Additionally, they examine liquidity ratios, such as the current ratio and quick ratio, to assess the company's ability to meet its short-term obligations.

Valuation metrics provide a quantitative basis for comparing investment opportunities within the same industry or across different sectors. For example, a lower P/E ratio may indicate that a stock is undervalued, while a high P/E ratio might suggest overvaluation. Moreover, the P/B ratio can help investors determine if a stock is undervalued by comparing its market price to its book value.

Another key valuation metric is the dividend yield, which measures the annual dividend income per share relative to the stock's price. A higher dividend yield may attract income-oriented investors, while a lower yield might be more appealing to growth-focused investors. Furthermore, the ROE ratio, which measures a company's profitability in relation to its equity base, is an essential metric for evaluating the efficiency of management in creating shareholder value.

In conclusion, financial statements and valuation metrics are indispensable tools for investors to evaluate a company's financial health and investment attractiveness. By analyzing these data points, investors can make well-informed investment decisions that align with their risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Concluding Thoughts on Crafting a Compelling Investment Thesis

Crafting a compelling investment thesis is crucial for informed investing decisions, as it helps investors thoroughly analyze a potential opportunity. A well-researched investment thesis demonstrates the investor's conviction level and reinforces their confidence in the investment choice. This process involves a deep understanding of the business, its value drivers, and its potential growth trajectories.

A strong investment thesis should be definitive, clearly articulating the reasoning behind the opportunity and the expected returns. This allows investors to stay focused on their goals and maintain their conviction, even when the stock's price movement does not align with their expectations.

By adopting a confident, knowledgeable, and neutral tone, investors can effectively communicate their investment thesis to others. Clarity in presenting the investment case is essential for persuading potential partners or stakeholders to support the opportunity. Utilizing formatting tools such as tables and bullet points can aid in conveying essential information efficiently and ensuring the investment thesis is easy to understand.

In summary, crafting a compelling investment thesis enables investors to make well-informed decisions that align with their financial goals. By developing a thorough understanding of the investment opportunity and maintaining a strong conviction level, investors can better navigate the market and achieve long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you develop a strong investment thesis.

A strong investment thesis begins with thorough research on the company or asset in question. This may include looking at the financials, competitive position, management team, industry trends, and future prospects. It's essential to critically analyze the available information, identify potential risks and rewards, and establish a clear rationale for the investment based on this analysis. Staying focused on the long-term outlook and maintaining a disciplined approach to the investment process can also contribute to developing a robust investment thesis.

What are the key elements to include in an investment thesis?

An investment thesis should include the following key elements:

• Overview of the company or asset: Provide a brief background of the company or asset, including its market, size, and competitive positioning.
• Investment rationale: Detail the reasons for investing, such as attractive valuation, strong revenue growth, or a unique business model.
• Risk assessment: Identify potential risks and how they could impact the investment returns.
• Expected return: Estimate the potential financial return based on the identified growth drivers or catalysts.
• Time horizon: Indicate the investment period, typically long-term, during which the thesis is expected to play out.
• Fund size: Specify the amount of invested capital that will be allocated to this particular investment, considering its impact on portfolio construction, liquidity, and potential returns within the overall portfolio strategy

How can one evaluate the success of an investment thesis?

Evaluating the success of an investment thesis involves tracking the progress of the company or asset against its initial expectations and underlying assumptions. This may involve measuring financial performance, analyzing key developments in the industry and the company's position within it, and monitoring potential changes in overall market conditions. It is helpful to revisit the investment thesis regularly to assess its validity and make adjustments as necessary.

What's the difference between an investment thesis for startups and publicly traded companies?

An investment thesis for a startup often focuses on the growth potential of a new or emerging market, considering the innovative products or services the startup offers in that market. Here, the focus may be more on the potential for long-term value creation, the management team's ability to execute on their vision, and market fit.

For publicly traded companies, the investment thesis may include analysis of current financial performance, valuation multiples, and overall market trends. Publicly traded companies have more historical data and financial performance information available, allowing investors to make more informed decisions based on these factors.

How does an investment thesis guide decision-making in private equity?

In private equity, the investment thesis helps guide the selection of companies to invest in, as well as the structuring of deals to acquire those companies. It provides a blueprint for how the private equity firm aims to create value, including plans for operational improvements, financial engineering, or growth strategies. This thesis serves as a basis for monitoring the progress of an investment and helps make decisions on the timing of potential exits.

How can real estate investment theses differ from other sectors?

Real estate investment theses may focus on factors such as location, property type, market dynamics, and demographic trends to identify attractive investment opportunities. The analysis may also take into account macroeconomic factors, such as interest rates and economic growth, which can influence real estate markets. Additionally, real estate investments may be structured as either direct property investments or through financial instruments like Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), affecting the underlying investment thesis.

What considerations should a first-time fund manager have when developing a fund's investment thesis?

For a first-time fund manager, crafting a compelling and robust fund's investment thesis is paramount for attracting investors. Given their lack of a track record, these managers need to lean heavily on the research, clarity, and vision articulated in their investment thesis. The thesis should detail how the fund aims to identify ideal investments, especially those in industries with high margins. It should also benchmark the strategies against industry standards to highlight the manager's acumen and awareness of market norms.

How is a stock pitch related to an investment thesis and what role does a target price play in it?

A stock pitch is essentially a condensed, persuasive form of an investment thesis, often presented to stakeholders to advocate for investing in a particular publicly-traded company. A key element of any stock pitch is the target price, which is an estimation of what the stock is worth based on projections and valuation models. This target price serves as a quantitative anchor for the investment thesis, giving stakeholders a specific metric against which to measure potential returns and risks.

An Investment Thesis: The Key To Making More Money Long Term

In general, the longer you stay invested, the greater your chance of making money. To help you maintain a long-term investment approach, it's imperative to develop an investment thesis.

Drawing from my experience in investing since 1995, it's sometimes easy to get shaken out of a particular investment. Or it’s easier for some people to just keep their money sitting in cash out of fear of financial loss. I get it. I’ve lost plenty of money before because there are no guarantees when you take risk.

I observed panic selling during the 2000 dot bomb and 2008 global financial crisis, affecting both stock and real estate sellers. More recently, I witnessed panic selling at the beginning of the global pandemic in 2020. The events lead me to try and allay fears with the post, “ How to Predict the Stock Market Bottom like Nostradamus .”

Having a solid investment thesis, as long as it remains intact, will provide you with the courage and confidence to hold on for the long term.

The Importance Of Developing An Investment Thesis When Investing

Let me go through some examples of how having an investment thesis has helped me hold long-term and make more money overtime. Coming up with an investment thesis also helped me make a significant decision on a recent dilemma. At the end of this post, I'll also share what makes a good investment thesis.

If you are just starting out and are fearful of investing your hard-earned money, developing an investment thesis will help you take action. To beat inflation , you must continuously invest over the long term. If you don’t overcome your fear of investing, then you will likely fall way behind over time.

Please know that you don't have to be a great investor to make money. You just need to be a good-enough investor to significantly outperform a large part of the population that does not save and invest aggressively.

1) Heartland Real Estate Investment Thesis

In 2016, I published my post titled “ Focus on Trends: Why I'm Investing in the Heartland of America .” My investment thesis was based on the anticipation that more people would relocate to lower-cost areas of the country due to advancements in technology and the increasing ability to work from home. Additionally, I believed that Trump's victory would contribute to increased interest, funding, and expansion in red states.

Given the uncertainty of which specific real estate investment deal to pursue, I opted to invest in a couple of funds that focused on acquiring real estate in the heartland of America. Now, eight years and $954,000 later, I have generally witnessed positive returns on my investments. Texas properties, in particular, have performed quite well since 2016. However, as I shared in my post on private real estate investing after eight years , there have also been some duds as well.

Investing for such an extended period has been relatively straightforward. In the realm of private funds , the expected distributions typically span between 5-10 years.

2) San Francisco Real Estate Investment Thesis

When I arrived in San Francisco in 2001, I was amazed by the affordability of real estate compared to New York City. Properties were priced 20 to 30% lower, offering more space for the same cost or a similar property for less.

At that time, compensation in the finance industry was comparable between the two cities at my level. My investment thesis was that prices in SF would catch up to prices in Manhattan due to a better quality of life and the growth of technology.

Didn’t Want To Miss Out On The Tech Boom

My firm played a role in taking Facebook and Google public in the early 2000s. As a result, I anticipated a resurgence in Web 2.0. Lacking the skills or connections to enter the tech industry, I opted to invest in tech stocks and acquire rental properties instead.

Overall, San Francisco property prices have shown positive performance. The excitement of living in a big city attracts billions of people. However, the city's reputation suffered post-pandemic due to hesitancy by officials to address criminal activities and remove drug dealers downtown.

Thankfully, to stay in power, politicians must address corruption, tackle crime, clean up the city, and provide tax incentives for businesses to thrive. Citizens discontented with criminal activities are likely to vote out ideological politicians and judges who harm the community. Consequently, there is potential for the city's image to be restored post 2024 election, leading to a recovery in real estate prices.

Deja Vu With Artificial Intelligence

Since 2023 there has been an extraordinary surge in tech stock prices. Fueled by substantial bonuses and robust portfolios, I anticipate that a portion of this wealth will flow back into San Francisco Bay Area real estate. Redfin reports that luxury home prices are reaching all-time highs , attracting a significant number of all-cash buyers .

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is evoking a sense of déjà vu, reminiscent of 25 years ago when the internet promised to revolutionize the world. Today, it is equally apparent that AI will shape the world in the next two decades.

Despite the likelihood that most of us won't secure lucrative AI jobs due to intense competition, there's an opportunity for ordinary individuals to invest in AI companies. Beyond public companies like Nvidia, Microsoft, Google, and Facebook, private investments can be made through open-ended venture capital funds like the Innovation Fund .

I am personally adopting this approach by investing in both public and private AI-related companies. My goal is to allocate $500,000 to these companies over the next five years. This strategy not only positions me for potential gains but also serves as a hedge against the challenges AI might pose for our children in terms of job opportunities.

AI Facilitated My Property Decision

In my previous post, “ Rent out, sell, or create a wellness center, ” I detailed my dilemma regarding what to do with my old house. At 46 years old, with two young children and already managing four rental properties, the prospect of overseeing another rental didn't appeal to me.

Being a landlord can be burdensome, particularly when dealing with challenging tenants or constant maintenance issues. Such responsibilities take away time that could be better spent on more enjoyable activities, like playing tennis or spending quality moments with my kids.

After reading through the comments on my post, which provided diverse opinions on the course of action, I weighed the options and arrived at a decision to rent out the house and hold it for the long term. The deciding factor was the formulation of an investment thesis.

Why Renting Out Is Better For Now

My investment thesis revolves around the belief that owning a single-family home on the west side of San Francisco is a sound decision. Local economic catalysts, including the opening of a large school in the fall of 2024 and the $4 billion renovation of the UCSF Parnassus Hospital by 2030 (expected to create 1400 new jobs), indicate a positive trajectory for real estate on the west side.

Remote work is here to stay. In addition, there is a demographic transition from downtown on the east side to the west side. The final catalyst for my decision to rent out is the anticipated wealth generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) for employees and investors. As a result, I will suck it up as a landlord for the next 3-5 years and then reevaluate.

I spoke to Ben Miller, CEO of Fundrise , and he believes we're past the real estate market as do I. As a result, holding onto my property and renting it out makes even more sense.

3) The Vision Pro Investment Thesis

I've owned Apple stock since 2012 and it has done well. With the S&P 500 surpassing 4,900, I've faced increasing challenges in finding compelling stock investments. However, when the Vision Pro was unveiled on February 2, 2024, my interest was piqued.

At that time, Apple had just reported somewhat soft quarterly results, causing a dip in the stock. I contemplated whether this could be the opportunity to further invest in the company. After dedicating several hours to researching the Vision Pro, I concluded that the answer was affirmative.

Apple's new Vision Pro is a significant accessibility tool for the visually impaired . Approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide experience some form of visual impairment. While an estimated 237 million face moderate to severe impairment. Among them, 40 million are considered legally blind or completely blind. This figure is expected to rise to 115 million by 2050.

Consequently, I believe the Vision Pro holds the promise of greatly assisting a substantial portion of the global population in enhancing their vision and interaction capabilities. Considering the critical importance of sight, the demand for this product should be relatively inelastic for the visually impaired. Furthermore, Apple is likely to enhance the product over time and reduce its retail cost. I can’t wait for version 2 and 3.

An Example Of How The Vision Pro Can Help The Visually Impaired

If you have regular sight or can correct your myopia or hyperopia with glasses or contact lenses, then you might take for granted your vision. Seeing a small screen on your phone or the 10-point font size on a menu is usually not a problem. For for those with visual impairments, it can be.

This Vision Pro commercial succinctly captures one of its many benefits for the visually impaired.

Apple is already an outstanding company with intelligent employees and an impressive product line. Further, it is cash flow positive with substantial cash reserves and a dividend payout. My confidence in investing in Apple stock aligns with my confidence in the S&P 500. However, I anticipate additional upside potential, particularly with the introduction of the Vision Pro.

Note: The definition of legally blind means the inability to correct your visual accuity to at least 20/200 with corrective lenses. Most people can correct their visual acuity to 20/20 to 20/40 with glasses or contacts. Legally blind usually does not mean complete blindness, as many people who are legally blind still have some vision.

America The Great: The Ultimate Investment Thesis

I harbor a home country bias as an American patriot. Residing in this country since 1991, paying six figures in taxes annually since 2003, witnessing my children's birth on American soil, and crafting over 2300 personal finance posts aimed primarily at aiding Americans in achieving financial freedom sooner—these experiences have fostered my deep connection and commitment to this nation.

I envision my final days in America, leaving behind a positive legacy . Consequently, my long-term outlook is bullish and biased on owning American assets.

The greatness of America, in my belief, stems from:

• Entrepreneurial spirit
• Strong work ethic
• A stable democratic government
• A robust legal system safeguarding intellectual property and individual rights
• A formidable defense industry ensuring citizens' protection
• A stable world currency
• Generally thoughtful and kind people aspiring to assist others globally in attaining freedom
• A history of unity during times of crisis, exemplified by events like 9/11 and the pandemic

While acknowledging America's challenges—crime, poverty, socioeconomic injustices—I consider it unwise to bet against its long-term excellence. The collective willpower of our nation, I believe, will drive ongoing positive improvements.

I advocate that everyone, globally, should find a way to own a piece of America , be it through the S&P 500 or U.S. real estate.

In 50 years, when our grandchildren become adults, they will appreciate our foresight in investing in America today. Despite inevitable economic fluctuations, with a well-defined investment thesis, we stand to accumulate wealth beyond our current imagination.

What Makes A Good Investment Thesis

A good investment thesis is a well-researched and articulated rationale behind an investment decision. It serves as a comprehensive guide that outlines the reasons and expectations for choosing a particular investment. Here are key characteristics of a good investment thesis:

• Clear and Concise: The thesis should be easily understandable and to the point.
• Supported by Research: Ground your thesis in thorough research, including fundamental analysis, technical analysis, and an understanding of relevant economic and market trends.
• Alignment with Goals: Clearly state how the investment aligns with your overall financial goals and objectives. Whether it's capital appreciation, passive income generation , or risk mitigation, the thesis should reflect your goals.
• Identifies Investment Opportunity: Specify the investment opportunity or opportunities you have identified. This could involve a specific asset class, industry, sector, or individual securities.
• Analysis of Risks: Acknowledge and assess the risks, challenges, and uncertainties associated with the investment.
• Time Horizon: Clearly define your time horizon for the investment. Specify whether it's a short-term trade, a long-term hold, or something in between.
• Competitive Advantage: Understand what sets it apart from competitors and how it plans to sustain or enhance that advantage.
• Financial Metrics: Include relevant financial metrics supporting your investment decision. This may include valuation ratios, growth rates, profitability, and other key financial indicators.
• Scenario Analysis: Consider different scenarios and outcomes. A well-thought-out thesis anticipates how the investment might perform under various circumstances.
• Adaptable and Dynamic: Recognize that market conditions can change. A good investment thesis is adaptable and allows for adjustments based on new information or changing circumstances.
• Exit Strategy: Clearly outline your exit strategy. Know under what conditions you would sell or reduce your position.
• Communication: Share your thesis with others to find any blind spots, like I am with this post. Others should be able to understand your rationale and analysis.

Having a good investment thesis won't guarantee success, but it's like a roadmap for your investments. Keep updating it based on what's happening in the market, and make sure you invest for the long term.

Investment theses can vary in quality, and sometimes you might get the investment right with the wrong thesis. The main thing is to have a good reason why you're investing, so you stick with it over time.

In 10 years, you'll probably end up with a lot more money if you're the kind of person who keeps investing for the long haul, compared to someone who doesn't invest or tries to time the market. Decide which situation you want to have in the future.

Reader Questions

Share an investment thesis you have about a particular investment you are bullish on. How can we convince more people to come up with an investment thesis and hold for the long-term?

Invest In Private Growth Companies

If you believe artificial intelligence will be an important economic driver, check out the  Innovation Fund . It invests in the following five sectors:

• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Modern Data Infrastructure
• Development Operations (DevOps)
• Financial Technology (FinTech)
• Real Estate & Property Technology (PropTech)

Roughly 35% of the Innovation Fund invests in artificial intelligence. In 20 years, I don't want my kids wondering why I didn't invest in AI or work in AI.

The investment minimum is also only $10. Most venture capital funds have a $250,000+ minimum. You can see what the Innovation Fund is holding before deciding to invest and how much. Traditional venture capital funds require capital commitment first and then hope the general partners will find great investments.

Fundrise is a long-term sponsor of Financial Samurai and Financial Samurai is an investor in Fundrise.

About The Author

Financial Samurai

35 thoughts on “an investment thesis: the key to making more money long term”.

Folks investing should have an Investment Policy Statement (IPS).

Scope & Purpose: “The investment policy statement (IPS) will govern how the financial assets of ____________ are to be invested.”

RESPONSIBILITIES:

“__________ is responsible for coordinating updates to the IPS and responsible for monitoring the application of the IPS and shall notify ETFguide of the need for updates to the IPS and/or violations of the IPS implementation. _________ shall be responsible for approving the IPS and all subsequent revisions of it.

Changes in life circumstances including the birth of a child, retirement, disability, divorce, or family death will impact all future adjustments and responsibilities to this document.”

Research the subject and find a Financial Advisor (RIA) firm that prepares such IPS reports and go over your situation with them. Ron Delegge at ETFguide can prepare an IPS for you for a reasonable fee. You can find his firm online.

your quote sums up our last 40+ years of heavy real estate investing vs investing in equities.

“Since 1996, I’ve discovered that having a well-defined investment thesis increases the likelihood of consistently investing and holding onto investments during challenging periods. As the old saying goes, ‘time in the market is more important than timing the market.’ This lesson came to me the hard way during the first 10 years of my investing career.”

We were told many times that we would lose it all, go bankrupt, have to grovel to return to work & suffer the never ending torment of bad tenants & damages. We could write a book on it all, as it definitely was not easy, but since 1998 (& retired) we have been free & clear on every property since, have no debt since & live comfortably between three homes during the year after selling our 4th, a FL home of 31 years, just before H. Ian hit. love your articles & financial insight.

My California real estate thesis is this:

Despite numerous rent control efforts and the State’s (and most coastal counties’) hostility towards landlords, I think California residential real estate will be very lucrative for landlords assuming they have sufficient cash on hand to withstand vacancies, evictions, cash for keys, etc.

This is because rent control decreases landlord and developer participation in providing housing and thus leads to fewer units on the market. Fewer units on the market will increase rental prices.

Hi, like you I own and manage a few rental properties in the city, which is our primary income. Although the rental market here isn’t great, at least it’s stabilized. It’s like survive until 2025 and hopefully things will turn around in SF. These upcoming city elections, with a swell of moderate candidates will hopefully make a tangible difference in quality of life issues, which of course have hurt SF’s reputation worldwide.

I’m also bullish on the potential for the AI industry. But work from home is pervasive and I think downtown and soma are going to be challenged for several years. Also tech firms are less concentrated in the Bay Area now and getting more distributed in 2nd tier cities. The saving grace for SF is that many local neighborhoods are now more cleaned up and also have thriving foot traffic, if it’s the mission, inner sunset, etc. So I feel good about the future of good and established SF neighborhoods, which is where I own properties.

SF has roughly doubled in value every 10years, which is amazing. The first chart in this report is a good visual, https://www.bayareamarketreports.com/trend/3-recessions-2-bubbles-and-a-baby The main thing I need to wrap my head around is that I think the next 5-10 years will not have the amazing appreciation that we’ve had since the mid-late 90’s when I started investing. I honestly got used to that phenomenal rate growth, but I’m trying to set more modest expectations going forward.

How bullish are you on future SF appreciation? Do you think it will be anything like the last 30 years?

The market may simmer this year. But I think it’ll eventually go up again by a rate of 3.5 to 5% a year. If you look at the historical cycles, there’s generally about 4 to 5 years of flat lining.

Given we’re already at a high base, the growth rate of appreciation won’t be as high as in the past. That said, I think there’s gonna be another renaissance of Wealth being created over the next 10 to 20 years with new tech / AI.

What the cost of building materials, labor, and restrictive building should help push real estate prices higher.

Yeah 3.5-4.5% SF real estate returns over the next 5-10 years is probably realistic. 7% is unlikely, which is what we’ve gotten used to :) Without that outsized 7% equity return, and holding my properties debt free (no leverage), keeping them long term vs selling and going into the stock market becomes a much closer call.

My cash on cash on my RE is 3.5-4%, plus 3.5-4.5% expected appreciation totals 7-8.5% total returns, which is roughly in line with s&p 500 long term returns. Tax treatment favors RE, but then again with stocks you don’t need to deal with tenants and repairs. But of course the main issue is transferring my RE equity into stocks is bloody expensive, with sales expenses and capital gains of about 37%. So I’m still better off holding the RE. My only issue is that I’m heavily RE weighed, with only a small stocks portfolio. My plan has been to dollar cost average excess RE profits into stocks to better balance my portfolio.

I’ll just have to see what transpires over the next 2-3 years to our fair city, plus evaluate the macro economic picture. I guess this “sell RE, buy stocks” dilemma isn’t such a bad problem to have. But nevertheless it’s nice to have a “safe space” (sic) such as this blog where wealthy people can freely cry about their problems…IRW anytime I bring this up to people it’s like, “wait, let me get the worlds smallest violin to play for you” :)

Innovation Fund vs going after AI public companies like the following that are already established and surging YTD. Thinking the latter might be more attractive and with less risk.

Nividia TSMC Arm SoundHound

I don’t have thesis, only several points: -Only buy S&P 500 index with lowest fee. -No trading, hold for LONG time. – Maximize all tax deferred accounts. – No investment in a single company since I have no control over management. I bought and didn’t look at my account for years . I just recently checked and saw that it has 13% compounding interest making me millionaire.

Well done. Don’t forget to capitalize on your investments by selling on occasion to buy things you want and improve the quality of your life. Otherwise, there’s really no point to investing in stocks.

Is there a fundrise equivalent for non-US citizens? Thanks in advance. Dave

Hi Dave, I’m not aware of one. You can just invest in a public real estate ETF like VNQ or one of the publicly-traded REITs like O. Just know they are more volatile.

Just to clarify, Innovation Fund is not currently open to new investors but has a “waitlist.”

Also what is happening with publically traded companies in the AI thesis seems to me to mean that not really necessary to take on added risk of start-ups. just look at recent performance of ARM SMCi and NVDA. and that is just a few. i will continue inverting in a broad 10-12 public stocks and sure to gain solid and not massive returns. i look at it this way, if a start up here or there will do 10x and some will bust, leaving you with overall 3-4 times return, then i am likely to better with the established companies in a sector where the revolution has just begun. smci is up 3x in just a month.

That’s weird. I just checked with Fundrise and the Innovation Fund is open to investors.

“The Innovation Fund is OPEN to new investors. It is possible this person is unable to make a direct investment into the fund if they are an existing investor who is not a Pro member. This is something we’re working on.

But to reiterate the fund is open to new investors.

If you select the Venture Capital investment plan during signup you can invest in the Innovation Fund.”

I’m an existing investor and don’t believe I’m a pro member. I’m able to invest in the Innovation Fund.

i’m an existing investor but not a pro member and i am not able to invest in Innovation fund so must fall into that segment. it is not provided as an option when i select “browse investments” in my account. i then read a review of the fund from late 2023, i will try to post, and it did say that it wasn’t open to all yet. it did said all you needed was $10 to start.

You should reach out to them and let them know.

ASH01 – What are the 10-12 AI public companies you are targeting besides Nividia, smci and ARM? Thoughts on TSMC & SoundHound? I tend to agree with your thesis. Why take on the private risk when the public companies should still be in their infancy in terms of AI growth.

As discussed earlier, here is my investment thesis which could be quite controversial:

1. A portfolio of 50/50 real estate vs. stock. The stock portion should not be lower but could be much higher. Holding real estate is mostly for pleasure/need and rent. Rental properties are all places i would want to live. Once pleasure part of real estate is no longer needed, should graduate to stocks or to rental units.

2. Stocks is a mix of SP500 and Tech i.e. Nasdaq 100, XLK, VOOG and also exposure to single high performing stock. No international stock. No bonds. Mostly automated invested to cost average. Real estate rental income is the security in case stock market crashes.

3. Flexible and nimble approach. Whenever the market is down, try investing more and don’t withdraw funds.

4. No investment in private funds, real estate funds, bitcoin and other cryptos which i dont understand and have no transparency. No need to complicate.

Sounds good. What’s your investment thesis though for your tech stocks?

It’s a good mantra to not invest in what you don’t understand.

I really enjoy investing private funds (VC, VD, real estate) as it forces me to invest for the long term ~10 years. The capital calls also keep me investing even when I might not want to.

I am excited about building out, my artificial intelligence exposure, and I have one from the invested in Ripple, which has turned out to be maybe a 20-40X return. Maybe I can cash out just in time to buy a new car in 2027, when my current car is 12 years old.

Here’s an example of an AI company one of my private funds (Kleiner) is investing in. I’m pumped! https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/06/ambience-healthcare-raises-70m-for-its-ai-assistant-led-by-openai-and-kleiner-perkins/

I’m also excited about the AI investments in the Fundrise Innovation Fund , like Databricks.

Sounds good. As for tech, i have a single stock exposure due to my employment which is doing better than market and is a great company that does good work. So thesis for that is don’t fix what is working. As for the rest, my strategy is similar to most here – i Invest in 15-20% of stock portfolio in QQQ and lesser to XLK and VOOG which are Apple, Microsoft heavy – i believe i get enough AI and other exposure through these since i dont know what the next big thing will be.

One last point. I am very bullish about US Stocks for the following reasons:

1. European markets are not performing. On surface, it appears cheap to buy however not a single tech company in the top 100 European companies. 2. China stock market is not performing. Significant decline and volatility. Could be the beginning of a Japan like deflation and decline. 3. US is the center of AI and innovation. 4. Stock ownership, although at historical highs is still low among Americans being at approx 56%.

In couple years, i think everyone will want a piece of the US companies. Already evidenced by the fact that Shiller CAPE after 80s is much higher than historically has been. Could this lead to a bubble? Definitely – but it could well last 10-20 years and the fundamentals could also catch up in the meanwhile either due to AI generated earnings or something else and optimism pays when investing!

My best thesis was investing in semiconductor stocks. Roughly 5 years ago I noticed how almost everything needed a chip. My thesis proved itself out during the pandemic. You couldn’t get a car, dishwasher or any smart device because chips weren’t available. I bought AMD, NVDA, and Intel. 2 of them worked out pretty good. I was banking on the cloud and data centers to boom. That part worked out okay. I didn’t see any of the AI craze coming which has been hugely beneficial. Decent thesis and a ton of luck!

Nice! But what about the future?

Take a little profit and hold the rest for another 5 years. I realize we’re right in the middle of AI mania but everything I read and watch tells me we’re still in the early days of AI.

No matter what happens we’re still going to need more chips to power all our future ambitions

so interesting how almost nobody but nvda saw the AI craze coming. that one earnings report by them set this whole thing off about a year ago. such an interesting phenomenon. AI has been talked about for many years but then suddenly companies decide to try to make a product of it in a massive scale. nvda explosion in earning was because companies suddenly ordered their chips.

Yup, I spend hours a day watching cnbc, reading blogs and doing research and I truly didn’t know what AI could do or how much money companies could make off it. Luck is definitely a factor.

VTI + VXUS + long haul = chill

Agree, but it’s hard to retire earlier by just investing in the total stock market. There are two levels of wealth , the top-tier wealth did not get there by investing in ETFs or index funds.

100% agree with you on that front! BUT I do personally believe that 95% of people will accumulate more wealth through regular and automated index investing over time vs. active investment strategies such as picking 1:1 stocks. I would guess you also have a sizable audience base that loves the content but also leans toward simple investing strategies over the long haul and not constantly stressing about achieving the top tier of wealth. The content here can sometimes make you feel behind, overly stressed that you’ll never have enough, and stuck stressing about the future. I personally have to step back and remember it’s really about regular investing (in your strategies of choice) + time in the market and not timing the market. Which I personally think is a sound investment thesis! Love the content though to be clear. It’s really helped me think about allocation percentages and mortgage payoff strategies.

Yes, good points. For most people, buying a primary residence and regularly investing in an S&P 500 index fund is a great long-term strategy.

Personally, I like to always be challenged bc it’s fun. Even if I fail, I will likely have accumulated more than if I hadn’t pushed myself.

From my coaching days, the players who advance the most are pushed the hardest.

But good reminder to press the easy button once in a while for readers who may be burning out or feeling behind.

I love your clear and specific convictions in your investment thesis. That’s something I need to work on. Very cool on the Apple Vision Pro. I don’t have anything specific in my own investments. Although I do believe in long term real estate, stock, and tech exposure. Thanks for the list of steps on creating an investment thesis.

I’ve been investing since the mid-1980s. Every time I’ve evaluated my portfolio against a portfolio of index funds using backtesting of 5 years and more, the index funds (with expenses deducted) have beaten my portfolio’s performance over a 5+ year time horizon. I’ve finally realized that I have a lot more money today if I’d purchase a mix of three low-cost, passively managed index funds. My latest lesson occurred during the latest 5 year period in which my portfolio performed well. It did what it was designed to do (mitigate losses during down markets like 2022). I was only down 2% that year. Unfortunately, if I had invested in a mix of SCHD (50%), SCHG (25%), and SWPPX (25%), that portfolio would have crushed my performance by a wide margin. Yes, it lost more money in 2022 (around 14.75%) but dramatically exceeded its performance in the other four years. I’m done trying to be smart. I’m buying a mix of passive ETFs and accepting the market risk.

Thanks for posting that. You basically stated my “investment thesis”:

1. My assets must grow in order for me to keep up with long term inflation 2. Over the long haul it’s very difficult for me to outperform the market 3. Figuring out my my risk tolerance and indexing accordingly is probably my best bet

No different than you, it’s taken since the mid 1980’s for this reality to really set in…

Those are great points Vaughn. Keep the focus and stay invested for the long term!

Active funds underperform their benchmark passive index >95% of the time after 10 years. With retail investors its over 99% with average underperformance by 4% *annually*. The 1% that crush due to lucky pick with concentration are the reason people still do it, but I’d rather have a 99x higher chance to have a +4% CAGR *and* barely think about it.

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What is an Investment Thesis and 3 Tips to Make One

• July 10, 2022
• Lanturn Content Team
• Fund Management

Home » Blog » Fund Management » What is an Investment Thesis and 3 Tips to Make One

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Whether you are a start-up founder or a first-time fund manager, learning how to write an investment thesis, can greatly assist you in attracting venture capital. Venture capital is a promising route, it can provide you with access to cash and expert advisors who can assist with day-to-day operations. Furthermore, venture capitalists can help guide you on your journey towards becoming the next big thing. In this article, we will provide you with tips for crafting an investment thesis, and offer insights into fund management and investing.

As a business-friendly region for aspiring fund managers and startups, Singapore is no stranger to venture capital, as evidenced by the total number of Singapore-based startups backed by venture capital reaching  S$11.2 billion in the first nine months of 2021 , doubling the whole amount raised in 2020. Although the number is predicted to increase in the coming years, it is crucial to remember that venture capital investors are highly selective; they will not invest in a company without thorough due diligence and vetting.

What is an investment thesis?

Would you invest in a business with no vision, guiding principles, or viability? Most likely, you will pass on the idea, no matter how much return is promised. This is why an investment thesis becomes crucial.

An investment thesis is a proposal that venture capitalists and investors make regarding a particular investment or entire asset class before investing in it. The thesis states their belief about why a particular investment will give them a good return in the future. Therefore, meticulous research is required to predict potential growth and determine the current market sentiment. If the thesis remains valid, then the investment should be continued, even in a downturn. Meanwhile, if the thesis turns out to be false, the asset can be sold and the investor can move on.

If you are a startup founder seeking investment, you must check if the goal of your startup is aligned with the investment thesis of the investor even before you pitch to them, so as not to waste time. For example, if your startup is about saving the climate, you should find an investor whose investment thesis is about impact investing. Other examples of investment thesis could be about a positive outlook on crypto or about investing in real estate.

You can  get a fundraising consultant  to help you with this.

How to make an investment thesis?

An investment thesis is not something that can be done on a whim. It must be well-thought-out. Here are three steps that you should take in creating an investment thesis:

Determine the cause of the trend

In crafting an investment thesis, you should elaborate on the trends that support your view of why this new venture would be a success. For instance, if you want people to back your new fintech venture, you may want to state that in today’s digital age, people are increasingly spending their time online and becoming dependent on mobile devices, including when it comes to their finances. They want everything to be instant and within reach, just by the tap of a finger.

This presents an opportunity for fintech to fill the demand, especially as mobile and internet penetration continues to increase worldwide. This section should support your view on why investing in fintech will pay off down the line. Remember to include market size potential or appetite for the service to bolster your argument.

Moreover, you should assess whether the industry itself has a place in the foreseeable future. As the world becomes more interconnected, it can be said that the probability of digital banking and fintech adoption is relatively high. Such a view was further realised during the pandemic when lockdowns and social distancing measures meant customers needed to find a new way to fulfil their financial needs — ultimately leading to a boom in fintech usage.

Assess the existing trend

After researching the cause of a given trend and market sentiment, it is time to make the case for why investors should back companies that will fit the investment thesis.

For instance, people started to rely on their smartphones, which became all-encompassing devices that answered every need at about the same time that internet penetration seemed to increase every year. It was in this environment that Grab, a booking platform for taxis in Southeast Asia, first started. Since then, they have transformed into the Super App that it is known for today, providing car rides, food, and even grocery shopping and investing services.

Becoming the first in Southeast Asia allowed Grab to establish market share and dominance long before other competitors. While it is true that Gojek was established in 2010, they relied on traditional call centre service for the first few years of operations and just started using an app in 2015. Additionally, they did not expand their Southeast Asia operations until much later, unlike Grab, which expanded to Singapore a year into operations.

This applies to all businesses and startups, not just digital native companies. For example, if you want to open a coffee shop, you must know the potential market in your area and list down the reasons why your coffee shop has potential. Perhaps it is located in a trendy and upcoming neighbourhood surrounded by commercial and residential properties, or you have a Korean-inspired flavour, piggybacking on the buzz surrounding anything Korean nowadays.

By highlighting these differentiating factors in your investment thesis, you effectively showcase why your venture has a competitive edge and the potential to succeed amidst the existing trend. This will attract investor interest and support for your startup.

Consider the risks involved

While starting a business may offer you a fantastic upside, it is still a risky endeavour. Even if you have the experience, starting something new does not always go according to plan. Therefore, it is often said that becoming an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart. Not everyone has the stomach to ride the ups and downs of establishing a new venture.

You may have grand plans in your head, but executing them into reality is a different ball game. That is why you need to list the possible worst-case scenarios that might occur in your startup and how you will address them to minimise their risk. This will give your investors confidence in your business, meaning that your business is not a flash-in-the-pan startup idea but a well-thought-out one with viability in the future.

Harking back to the fintech example, the risks could be cyber-attacks on the platform or hesitancy to adopt digital platforms, particularly among older generations, which may impact market reach and investment return. Your investment thesis should include ways to deal with such incidents, including hiring and training security experts and regularly holding workshops for seniors in urban and rural areas.

An investment thesis is a written document that explains why you believe investing in a specific asset will yield a good return in the long run. The belief should be backed by comprehensive research and analysis, not driven by a fear of missing out on the current investment trends or following the tips of an influencer. The document will function as a guide or reference to keep your emotions in check on the roller coaster ride of investing.

Lanturn’s Corporate and Fund Administration Services

As one of the leading technology firms that provide end-to-end financial services and solutions for businesses, Lanturn has a proven track record in fulfilling every client’s needs. This includes helping clients navigate their accounting and financing needs. Lanturn has administered over S$200M in fundraising rounds for our clients, from initial seed rounds to Series C.

Lanturn puts technology at the centre of everything we do, embracing the digital world with ease. It is ideal for digitally native companies or those planning to do a comprehensive digital transformation.

Planning your next fundraising round? Read this article and learn how having the right corporate services provider can make fundraising seamless and easy .

For instance, the know-your-customer (KYC) and onboarding process used to rely on emails, PDFs and wet signatures, which took weeks to complete.  Lanturn can make fundraising run smoothly  because it has built a platform that allows investors to upload key documents with just a few clicks. It features real-time guidance from a Lanturn onboarding specialist who will guide them every step of the way, ensuring a hassle-free and speedy process —ultimately increasing customer satisfaction and experience.

Not yet convinced? Here are  5 Reasons Why Hedge Fund Managers and Investors Should Use Fund Management Software .

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interpretive economics

• Feb 27, 2023

How to Write the Perfect Investment Thesis

For investment managers, finding investment opportunities is only half the challenge. Often the harder part is raising funds. To do this they need to create the perfect investment thesis to set out a convincing argument as to why their investment strategy will generate a return on investment for their clients. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of crafting a perfect investment thesis and provide insights into how to write one.

What is an Investment Thesis?

An investment thesis outlines a fund manager’s investment strategy and rationale for investing in a particular market or niche. It’s a crucial document that investment managers use to provide investors with the information and data they need to decide whether or not to invest in a fund. It can be turned into a variety of marketing materials for the fund including white papers, one-pagers, and investment decks.

The investment thesis should be concise and articulate the investment logic and framework for why a particular market or niche presents an attractive investment. It should outline the investment strategy and how it aligns with the fund manager’s hypothesis. The thesis should also address potential risks and benefits to investors.

Successful investment theses typically include an analysis of market trends, an assessment of the competitive landscape, and an explanation of why the investment opportunity presents an attractive opportunity.

In 2013, Ron Baron, a fund manager, invested in Tesla. At the time the stock was trading at $25 per share. However, Baron believed that electric cars were the future , and he was convinced that Tesla would become the leader in the EV industry. Ten years later, Tesla’s stock is trading at over $200 per share, making it one of the most successful investments in recent years.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing the Perfect Investment Thesis

Crafting the perfect investment thesis is not an easy task. It requires a great deal of research, analysis, and writing skills. Follow our step-by-step guide to write a perfect investment thesis.

Step 1: Define Your Investment Strategy

Determine your investment goals and objectives.

To define your investment strategy, you need to first need to understand your investment goals and objectives. Are you looking to invest in high-growth companies or established companies that generate a stable return? What is your investment horizon? What is risk profile? How much capital do you need to raise?

Identify investment opportunities

Once you have defined your investment goals and objectives, you need to identify your target market and investment opportunities in that market.

Define your investment strategy

Having determined your goals, risk tolerance and capital requirements you need to create a high-level investment strategy. This is a set of principles that will help the fund achieve its investment goals and guide investment decisions. This can be refined as you conduct market research and receive feedback from investors and industry-peers.

Step 2: Conducting Market Research

An investment thesis that is not backed by data is just opinion. To write the perfect investment thesis you need to conduct market research. This includes analyzing market trends, identifying potential risks and benefits, and conducting competitive analysis.

How to analyze market trends using data

To analyze market trends, you need to collect and analyze data. Data can come from a variety of sources including industry reports, financial statements, and news articles to identify trends in the market. You can also use tools such as Google Trends to identify search trends for specific keywords. There are also opportunities to use official data to back up claims, for example census data to prove an investment thesis based on demographic trends.

A variety of alternative data sources are available. these include:

Web scraping : Scraping data from online sources including social media sites, e-commerce or news stories. This data can be analyzed using natural language processing techniques (categorization, sentiment analysis).

Open data : There is a growing trend of organizations making data freely available. Good examples include traffic patterns on metro networks such as TFL in London .

Sensors and satellites : A growing industry of data providers is providing access to alternative data sources. From satellite data showing agricultural production to IoT sensor devices.

Polls and Surveys : Surveys provide insights into the collective consciousness. From tangible economic behaviors such as buying and shopping habits, customers expectations, information on personal finances, to social and political views.

Identifying market opportunities and potential risks

Having analyzed market trends, you need to identify market opportunities and potential risks. Investors need to be aware of different types of investment risks, such as market risk, credit risk, and liquidity risk associated with your investment thesis. A thorough analysis of potential risks helps investors make informed decisions and ensure that the investment is aligned to their risk appetite. The analysis should cover both systematic and unsystematic risks, There are a variety of statistical methods than can be used to measure risk and volatility including standard deviation, Sharpe ratio, beta, value at risk (VaR), conditional value at risk (CVaR), and R-squared.

Conducting competitive analysis

You may also want to include a competitive analysis. This looks at the competition in your target market. Who are the main players in the industry, their strengths, weaknesses, and competitive advantage.

Step 3: Developing Your Investment Hypothesis

The best investment theses include a well structured investment hypothesis. An investment hypothesis summarises why an investment opportunity exists in a given market. It should be based on your research and analysis and articulated in a clear and concise manner.

What is an investment hypothesis?

An investment hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a specific investment opportunity. It’s a statement that describes the investment opportunity and how it aligns with the investment manager’s investment goals and objectives.

Formulating an investment hypothesis based on your research and analysis

To develop a strong investment hypothesis, you need to review the data and information collected during your market research. Using this you need to identify key trends, opportunities, and risks and determine an investment strategy that allows you to achieve investment goals and objectives. This is the time to revisit and critique your initial investment strategy.

H4: Articulating the investment thesis in a clear and concise manner

Once you have developed your investment hypothesis, you need to articulate it in a clear and concise manner. This includes a clear investment logic and analytical framework for why a particular market or niche presents an attractive investment. You should also outline the investment strategy and how it aligns with your hypothesis.

Step 4: Writing the Investment Thesis

Having created the perfect investment thesis you need to structure the thesis and include key elements to make it persuasive.

The structure and format of a successful investment thesis

A successful investment thesis typically follows a structure that includes an executive summary, market analysis, investment hypothesis, investment strategy, and potential risks and benefits. The thesis should also include data and visual aids, such as graphs and charts.

Key elements to include in your investment thesis

To make your investment thesis persuasive, you need to include key elements such as a clear articulation of the investment opportunity, a detailed explanation of the investment hypothesis, an overview of the investment strategy, and describe the risks and benefits for potential investors.

Writing with clarity and brevity

To make your investment thesis easy to read and understand, you need to write with clarity and brevity. Use simple language and avoid jargon. Keep the thesis concise and to the point.

What type of resources and marketing materials do you need to create

Having defined your investment thesis you know need to create a variety of marketing materials in order to present to potential investors. These will vary depending on the type of investors and the regulatory framework you operate under. Some common investor marketing materials include:

Investor decks

An investor deck is a summary of your investment thesis. It should include a summary of your investment hypothesis, market opportunity with data, investment strategy, expected outcomes, risks, and benefits to investors. The investor deck should be concise and easy to understand. Avoid lengthy text and present the opportunity using relevant data points. Employing a professional designer will maximize the impact of your investment thesis.

The structure of an investment deck forces you to focus only on the key points, consequently a clear analytical framework or investment logic is essential.

White papers

A white paper is a more detailed description of your investment thesis. It should include an in-depth analysis of the market trends, competitive landscape, and investment opportunity. The white paper should also include an overview of your investment strategy and potential risks and benefits.

Investment one-pager

An investment one-pager is a brief summary of your investment hypothesis, market opportunity, and risks and benefits. It should be a one-page document that investors can quickly review to understand your investment opportunity.

Step 5: Refining and Perfecting Your Investment Thesis

The final step in writing a perfect investment thesis is to refine and perfect it. You need to continuously refine and improve your thesis to ensure it’s persuasive and effective.

Revising and editing your investment thesis

Once you have written your investment thesis, you need to revise and edit it. Review the thesis for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Ensure that the thesis is clear, concise, and persuasive. Nothing will damage your credibility more than easily fixed errors or incorrect data.

Seek feedback from peers and industry experts

You should seek feedback from peers and industry experts to ensure that your investment thesis is persuasive and effective. Aim to get feedback from colleagues, mentors, or industry experts all of whom can offer a unique outside perspective.

Continuously refining and improving your investment thesis

Investment managers should continuously refine and improve their investment thesis. They should review the thesis periodically and update it as needed to reflect changes in the market or investment strategy.

Crafting a perfect investment thesis is a crucial task for investment and fund managers. The investment thesis is a document that outlines the investment strategy and rationale for investing in a particular market or niche. A good investment thesis provides investors with a clear understanding of the investment opportunity, the risks and benefits, and the potential return on investment.

To write a perfect investment thesis, investment managers need to define their investment strategy, conduct market research, develop an investment hypothesis, craft the thesis, and refine and perfect it. They should also create marketing materials such as an investor deck, white paper, and investment one-pager to summarize their investment opportunity. Investment managers should continuously refine and improve their investment thesis to ensure it’s persuasive and effective.

How Interpretive Economics can help you write the perfect investment thesis

At Interpretive Economics, we help investment managers, asset managers, venture capital, family offices and other investment professionals create a variety of investment marketing materials including investment white papers, investor decks and investment one-pagers. We are experts at economic analysis, sourcing and analyzing data and crafting investment hypotheses. Get in touch to see how we can help you create the perfect investment thesis.

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Why The Best Funds Have a Clear Investment Thesis

Any fund manager will tell you about the importance of a clear investment thesis. Without it, you’re flying bling and trying to make investment decisions based on feel alone.

A well-defined investment thesis not only provides a strategic framework for investment decisions but also helps maintain consistency and focus in the investment approach.

In this post, we’ll explore why the best funds have a clear investment thesis and its importance in communicating investment philosophy to limited partners (LPs) and enhancing confidence and conviction in investment decisions.

Read more: 4 Ways to Create Your Startup Investment Thesis

Providing a Strategic Framework for Investment Decisions

A clear investment thesis plays a crucial role in providing a strategic framework for making investment decisions. It outlines the fund’s investment strategy, key objectives, and criteria for selecting investments, which helps investors to make decisions with conviction. It also helps investors avoid impulsive investment decisions that do not align with the fund’s investment philosophy.

A clear investment thesis should outline trends that are influencing where the world is going, and the investment approach should mirror after those trends.

Maintaining Consistency and Focus in Investment Approach

Having a clear investment thesis has another benefit: it helps maintain consistency and focus in the investment approach.

Speaking from firsthand experience: most fund managers NEED these guardrails to focus, and we’ve seen this pan out over the past few years.

How many VCs can you think of that have jumped from investing in the creator economy to Web3 to AI? A clear investment thesis will help eliminate distractions by narrowing the focus of the fund.

By outlining the fund’s investment strategy, key objectives, and criteria for selecting investments, the investment team can maintain a consistent approach to investment decisions. This consistency helps build trust with investors and increases the likelihood of achieving the fund’s long-term objectives. Furthermore, it reduces the likelihood of making investments that do not align with the fund’s investment philosophy.

Communicating Investment Philosophy to LPs

A clear investment thesis is also important in communicating investment philosophy to LPs.

This has always been important, but fund managers are going under the microscope even more in today’s fundraising market.

LPs need to understand the fund’s investment strategy, key objectives, and criteria for selecting investments to make informed decisions about investing in the fund. A well-defined investment thesis helps investors understand the fund’s investment philosophy, which is crucial in building trust with LPs.

Read more: USV Investment Thesis , Notation Investment Thesis , NewView Investment Thesis

Conclusion For a Clear Investment Thesis

Creating a clear investment thesis is a part of building any fund, and it’s a crucial step for any fund manager.

It provides a strategic framework for investment decisions, maintains consistency and focus in the investment approach, communicates investment philosophy to LPs, and enhances confidence and conviction in investment decisions.

By outlining the fund’s investment strategy, key objectives, and criteria for selecting investments, the investment team can maintain a consistent approach to investment decisions, build trust with investors, and increase the likelihood of achieving the fund’s long-term objectives.

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Does your VC have an investment thesis or a hypothesis?

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Venture capitalists love to talk investment theses: on Twitter, Medium, Clubhouse, at conferences. And yet, when you take a closer look, theses are often meaningless and/or misleading.

OpenVC is a new, open-source initiative to collect and analyze all publicly available VC theses to help founders more efficiently find the right investors — and vice-versa. For the first time, we are sharing here our initial conclusions. We hope you’ll upload your own thesis to benchmark yourself. We’ve identified six common patterns of how VCs articulate their theses and some best practices in doing so.

Our analysis is based on two complementary datasets:

• 125 theses so far submitted by investors into the OpenVC database.
• 36 theses pulled directly from U.S. VC websites by David Teten and Sam Sabin , co-founder of Hireblue .

Our four primary conclusions:

• Public theses are often inconsistent with how firms actually deploy capital.
• VC theses are often so vague that they’re meaningless.
• We found seven categories of VC theses, plus an eighth: the non-thesis.
• Investment theses are just hypotheses; the portfolio shows how accurate the hypothesis was.

For the sake of simplicity, we will consider “investment thesis” and “investment criteria” as equivalent terms moving forward, although we argue that the thesis leads to the investment criteria. We summarize how they interrelate in the table below.

1. Public theses are often inconsistent with how firms actually deploy capital

A typical VC thesis: “We invest in tech startups in Europe at an early stage.” However, our experience shows that in many cases “Europe” means a handful of countries, for instance, France, U.K. and Germany; and “tech” means B2B SaaS/fintech or consumer apps.

Thirty-four VC firms in OpenVC call themselves “early stage.” Yet 30% of those don’t actually invest in pre-revenue startups. The phrase is quite ambiguous; we suggest quantifying check size so that your investment preference is clearer.

Almost every VC says that they invest in the “best” founders. However, according to PitchBook Data, since the beginning of 2016, companies with women founders have received only 4.4% of venture capital deals. Those companies have garnered only about 2% of all capital invested. This is despite the fact that the data show you’re better off investing in women .

This lack of transparency results in confused founders who chase the wrong investors. In turn, investors are overwhelmed with poorly qualified opportunities.

2. VC theses are often so vague that they’re meaningless

Christoph Janz from Point Nine Capital wrote on Twitter:

The modal VC thesis is: “We invest in great teams addressing large markets with disruptive solutions.” Who invests in lousy teams addressing tiny markets with outdated solutions? Theses also tend to use the same words across many firms, e.g., “daring” and “bold.”

In particular, in our second dataset, we found a disproportionate number of theses focused on “technical” companies (vaguely defined) and focused on companies attacking “problems of the future rather than the present,” in various permutations of that language.

Why are the investment criteria so imprecise on the VC websites? We have three theories, in descending order of importance:

• Option value. Investors don’t want to be too restrictive and miss out on a deal. However, we’d argue that for most smaller managers who are not brand names, it’s better to be highly identified in your niche than being a generalist. Most limited partners we speak with agree.
• A desire to look “sexy” and politically correct as opposed to being honest. This is probably a major reason. For example, saying publicly, “We invest mostly in white/Asian men who went to Stanford like us” accurately describes numerous VCs, but doesn’t sound very politically correct.
• VCs are afraid to give out their secret sauce. We think this doesn’t make much sense; you can share your criteria without telling the whole logic behind them. Many top-tier VCs share detailed public theses.

3. We found seven categories of VC theses, plus an eighth: the non-thesis

What makes an excellent — or at least clear — investment thesis?

4 essential truths about venture investing

Typically, investors either have a very loose nonrestrictive strategy to investing or maintain a strict focus on a few particular areas. As two extremes:

• Founder Collective describes itself as “deliberately anti-thematic. Visionary founders have shown us that the weird use cases of today can become the hot themes of tomorrow.”
• Check Size: $50,000 to $200,000. Vast majority $100,000 to $150,000.
• Total Round Size: $50,000-$500,000. (Occasional exceptions to $1 million.)
• Valuation: $1 million-$3 million. (Rare exceptions to $6 million with extreme traction.)
• Traction/progress: Almost always $5,000 to $30,000/month in gross profit. No ideas or prototypes.
• Sector: Anything in tech. But you must be doing real engineering of some kind.
• Headcount: Usually at least two full-time founders. Often a few full- or part-time workers.

We take from this that there is little consensus on whether VC investing should be thesis-driven or not. And even the “thesis-driven” VC firms often make investments outside of their stated thesis.

Of the firms that articulate a thesis, most fall into one of, or a combination of, the following seven buckets:

(1) Industry funds . Warren Buffett famously said that “diversification is protection against ignorance. It makes little sense if you know what you are doing.” In venture capital, the industry- or sector-focused funds specifically disavow diversification:

• Andreessen Horowitz, which is a generalist as a whole, has launched dedicated funds across crypto , bio  and fintech .
• AgFunder , focused on the food and agricultural sectors, aims to solve challenges brought by climate change, failing soils and population growth .
• Foundry Group, investing primarily in “ software and internet ,” follows six major themes, e.g., human-computer interaction (HCI) or distribution.
• USV invests in companies that increase “ access to knowledge, capital and well-being by leveraging networks, platforms and protocols .”

Data from OpenVC showed that VCs typically focus on two technology classes. Software is by far the most sought-after class, with 94% of VCs investing in it. Deep tech follows as a distant second with 57%. Hardware and therapeutics lag well behind.

Out of 125 funds in the database, 33 state they invest in one type of technology (e.g., “software”); 43 invest in two types of technology (e.g., “software” and “deep tech”), and so on.

(2) Business-model-defined funds . These firms also sometimes target startups that serve a specific kind of customer (e.g., B2B versus B2C) within the business model preference. For example, Point Nine Capital focuses on B2B SaaS and marketplaces at the seed stage across many industries.

(3) Geography-defined funds . Apart from the usual country-specialist investors and foreign offices of U.S.-based VCs, we see three dynamics at play:

• VCs investing in specific geographies. Avataar Ventures invests exclusively in companies that fit these criteria: $15 million with annual recurring revenues; tech-led B2B and SaaS Companies; core operations in India/Southeast Asia; and open to active partnering. In 2019, according to the CVCA , Real Ventures invested in 42 rounds, with the total value of those rounds equal to that of the next three most active private VC firms combined. Real sees 80% of all seed deals in Canada.
• VCs investing abroad or in binational companies, typically with technology based in a second- or third-tier market, and sales/marketing in a first-tier market. Data from OpenVC suggests that 75% of funds invest in more than one country. These results are consistent for both U.S.- and Europe-based VC firms. Explore why venture capitalists are investing in international startups and why international startups love New York, and vice versa .

(4) Entrepreneur-defined funds . This is most commonly seen in funds that focus on underrepresented founders, but we’ve seen other focused communities as well.

• Female Founders Fund , AmplifyHer Ventures , Halogen Ventures and many others invest exclusively in women-founded businesses.
• a16z’s Cultural Leadership Fund aims to “enable more young African Americans to enter the technology industry.”
• J-Angels “is a community and a VC fund of top American investors (Jewish American and Israeli-born) in Silicon Valley and San Francisco.”
• Diaspora Ventures is a “pre-seed fund … looking to back the next generation of French entrepreneurs building tech companies in the U.S.”

A special subset of this is investors that focus on mission-driven founders and typically have explicit ESG criteria. For example, City Light VC only invests in “companies where there is a direct relationship between financial outcomes and measurable social impact.”

(5) Structure-defined funds . Versatile Venture Capital , Indie.VC  and other revenue-based finance and flexible VC investors state they focus on companies with a short-term focus on profitability. These firms typically invest using a nontraditional “flexible VC” structure, which allows founders to pay back their financial obligation to the fund through a combination of revenue-sharing and/or equity payback.

(6)   Situation-defined funds . Some firms optimize around certain aspects of the investment situation. Alpha Partners and Proof provide capital when their partner VCs don’t have pro rata and share the economics on the investments. Correlation Ventures invests in under two weeks when there is “at least one other venture capital firm also making their first investment into the company.”

(7) Stage-defined funds. These funds tend to focus their investments in startups at a specific stage or seeking a certain check size. First Round Capital invests in rounds up to Series A and is often the “first money in,” backing entrepreneurs at the first stages of the company they’re creating.

4. Investment theses are just hypotheses; the portfolio shows how accurate the hypothesis was

We cannot formally prove a priori whether one thesis is better than another. They exist as heuristics, but at the end of the day, deal flow trumps everything. If a fantastic opportunity shows up, most VCs would invest, regardless of their thesis.

Investment theses are marketing assets toward LPs and startups. As such, there are three stakeholders when building a thesis: the investing partners, the LPs and the founders.

We can see in the example above how the thesis is not “pure” from the GP point of view. It incorporates influences from the LP and, more and more, from the founders.

Faced with the daily deal flow, the investment thesis feels like nothing but “a set of strict rules, loosely applied.” Does it mean the investment thesis is just an irrelevant practice that should be ignored or abused? We think not.

In the battle for deal flow, the thesis is at the core of a fund’s value proposition. It’s part of a VC brand and identity. It’s what makes it unique and distinctive.

We’d argue that for most smaller firms, it’s better to be highly identified in your niche than being a generalist. A fund should aim to be identified as “the” specialist in one or a combination of the seven buckets listed above. “Even at a later stage, it’s better to be talked about [as] something than nothing at all,” startup mentor Alexander Jarvis said. “You can always mention you do other things later, as they reach out knowing you are awesome at something.”

Most important, show your data: the number of checks written at each stage; the number of checks in each size level ($500,000-$1 million, $1 million-$5 million and so on); follow-on ratio; etc. Almost every investor is glad to share the winners in their portfolio, but only a few will share detailed analytics. Some worthwhile examples are First Round Capital’s 10 Year Project and FJ Labs’ 2020 Year in Review .

“VCs bury their dead quietly; they write Medium posts when things went well,” Jarvis observed. We hope more firms over time will feel comfortable sharing the real data as to how their data lines up relative to their investment thesis … and their investment hypotheses.

David Teten has advised Real Ventures and Right Side Capital. Thanks to Paulina Symala and Prabhat Gusain for research and analytical help, and to Alexander Jarvis for detailed and thoughtful comments.

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