DEER ISLE: Insights, Flows & Investment Trends
Never Too Old to Be Young Again!
This holiday season let’s celebrate the power of a youthful outlook and the courage to take on new challenges—no matter our age.
Consider Bill Belichick, who took on the challenge of coaching college football at UNC after what most would agree is an outstanding pro coaching career, could be considered a “step backwards” and would otherwise be happily enjoying retirement – proving that passion and purpose don’t have a retirement date. Or, think about Julia “Hurricane” Hawkins, who shattered records in the 50- and 100-meter sprints at the age of 105. Even more remarkable? She only began running competitively when she turned 100!
Closer to our financial industry, age has been shown to be no barrier to innovation or ambition. Many of the titans of our industry are well past the traditional retirement age and remain actively engaged leading their organizations and investment decisions. Even in entrepreneurship which is often considered to be a young person’s activity, data shows that 67% of American entrepreneurs are over the age of 40, while only 37% are under 40 demonstrating that experience, resilience, and a willingness to dream big are timeless qualities.
Embrace the spirit of renewal, curiosity, and bold action—because it’s never too late to be young again. Cheers to what you can do at any age!
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If you are considering a capital transaction in 2025, contact us so that we can help using our innovative AI enhanced process and tools. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Capital Provider Interest: 2024 seemed to be the year of demand from Independent/Fundless sponsors. We continue to see and saw multiple inquiries for $1 to 5 million EBITDA cash flowing companies in stable fragmented industries where a roll up strategy is executable.
Private Credit: 2024 was the year of the below $1b lower middle market private credit funds which have seen increased opportunity since the sector is much less competitive than large cap private credit transactions and the funds are able to take advantage of the continued pull-back by banks in the lower middle market space.
Private Equity: 2024 saw the rise of sports, sports and more sports investments. There are the headline pro league transactions as well as multiple new leagues in established sports with new rules (3-on-3 Basketball, Indoor Golf League), as well as pro leagues forming in formerly amateur focused sports (Volleyball leagues, Track), plus of course, Major League Pickleball. And, there is also the rise of women’s sports teams and leagues. Venture Capital: 2024 saw the rise of innovation and growth in some non-traditional venture capital sectors such as climate mitigation including food and agriculture alternatives despite continued tough venture capital market conditions.
