Private markets investors had to somewhat modify their investment approach given the uncertain market conditions combined with liquidity crunch and higher cost of capital. Their strategies might have not changed dramatically but certain finetuning is required with regards to fundraising through new sources of capital, deal structuring and flexibility in generating returns. Leading investors explain how their strategies have changed and how this will position them to effectively navigate uncertain times.

• How does the current macro landscape affect alternative investment strategies?
• Which geographies and asset classes offer the best opportunities for private markets investors?
• Have fund managers changed their approach this year and what investment and portfolio management strategies are proving effective?
• What are the expectations for the next 12 months in terms of valuations and liquidity?

The current market conditions continue to propel private credit as an asset class of choice for private market investors across the region. This is even more prevalent in South Korea where credit strategies play a significant part in the Korean asset managers allocation to alternatives. Key consideration now is whether investors have what it takes to manage positions should macro conditions deteriorate. Our panel of experienced credit investors scrutinise the most attractive regions and sectors that offer the best risk-return profile. 

• Is the current economic landscape propelling private credit to the top of the asset allocation list?
• What are the key trends in credit strategies employed by GPs and LPs alike?
• Is Asia’s risk premium being reduced compared to US and Europe?
• Which private credit strategies currently offer the best risk-return?

LPs are increasingly more interested in distributions to paid (DPI) in a broader push for liquidity as exits continue to remain sluggish. In this environment, secondaries are proving popular channel for realisations, with continuation funds, NAV financing, and rolling assets into other funds offering alternative paths to liquidity. GPs and LPs share their views on how best to realise returns in the current market conditions. 

• How is the current exit environment affecting GP activity and LP confidence?
• What is the most prevalent liquidity route this year?
• Can the secondary market transactions upward trajectory sustain the momentum?
• What other alternative liquidity channels are being explored by fund managers?

As private markets investors reshape their strategies in response to a different macro-economic landscape, certain geographies and sectors in Asia seem to prove more popular than others. However, with opportunity also come challenges. A thorough look into specific geographies by country experts will provide the latest on the opportunity set and challenges when considering these markets.

India: Has is become too expensive?
Japan: Can it continue its strong momentum?
Southeast Asia: Is it the one to watch?
China: Time for a contrarian view?

The venture capital ecosystem in South Korea is driven by a strong innovation culture, and significant Government support and has shown remarkable adaptability while continuing to be a dynamic force of growth. Recent relaxation of rules for venture investment has further boosted the industry, and savvy early-stage investors are looking to capitalise on opportunities across key sectors including AI, technology, and healthcare. Experienced venture investors share their views on sourcing deals domestically and overseas.

• How has the venture capital playbook changed in the last two years?
• Is the correction in valuations boosting deal activity?
• Has the ecosystem benefited from the Corporate Venture Capital units set up?
• What sectors are proving most attractive?

The Korean private equity industry has grown in size and sophistication over the years. This maturity is reflected by moving from sourcing deals domestically to deploying capital and partnering with local businesses to expand internationally across range of industries including industrials, technology, financial services, consumer, and ever-growing K-Culture. Leading GPs will share their views on the current investment landscape and discuss their strategies for the year ahead.

• How has private equity performed in the last 12 months?
• How are GPs sourcing deals and to what extent regulation plays a role in creating opportunities?
• Is a valuation correction needed to improve deal flow?
• Where do Korean GPs look for to deliver sustainable expansion opportunities?

South Korea is well known for its deep pool of institutional LPs who are particularly sophisticated and have sound experience and expertise in private markets. However, market conditions and regulatory constrains influence allocation strategies for certain type of LPs, and secondaries seem to be the top choice for many institutional investors in recent years. Our experienced LP panel discuss their approach to asset allocation and the outlook for alternatives.

• What are the investment priorities for LPs this year?
• How do the different groups of institutional investors approach asset allocation given the various restrictions they face?
• What are the best opportunities domestically and overseas?
• How are LPs selecting their managers in the current landscape?