In this episode of How I Invest, we’re joined by Michael Kakenmaster, Director of Investments at Loyola University Chicago. Michael shares his journey and expertise in managing university endowment portfolios, with a focus on private markets and hedge fund strategies. He offers valuable insights on how to build sustainable, diversified portfolios and the strategies that have led to success in his role. We also discuss the evolving landscape of venture capital and how institutions like Loyola are adapting to market changes.

@dweisburd (David Weisburd)

@LoyolaChicago (Loyola University Chicago)

David Weisburd: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dweisburd/
Michael Kakenmaster: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kakenmaster-cfa-76212912/

Loyola University Chicago: https://www.linkedin.com/school/loyola-university-chicago/

Loyola University Chicago: https://www.luc.edu/

(0:00) Episode Preview

(0:44) Overview of opportunistic investments and helicopter lease funds

(3:32) History, challenges, and due diligence in the helicopter leasing market

(8:37) The impact of unique ideas and characteristics of a top investment committee member

(10:31) Managing Loyola's endowment and building a venture capital program

(14:32) Lessons from allocator friends and criteria for hedge fund managers

(18:12) Beliefs in market efficiency and retrospective insights

(20:45) Closing remarks