PitchIt Podcast #52: Alex Porto of Riverwood Capital
On episode 52, I talk with Alex Porto of Riverwood Capital. Riverwood Capital invests in high-growth technology and technology-related companies in need of capital and expertise to scale globally.
The growth stage has seen a wild ride over the last few years, especially in 2020 and 2021. The market accelerated to an incredible pace, with rounds happening faster and more frequently than ever.
Alex and I talked through this insane ride of the last two years, why Riverwood’s approach is different, why infrastructure is a big focus across their investment portfolio, the differences in investing across various markets like the U.S. and LatAm, board makeup, Formula One racing, valuations, and a whole lot more.
So without further ado, I present Alex Porto of Riverwood Capital. I hope you all enjoy the show and be prepared to learn:
- Alex’s journey to Riverwood Capital
- Riverwood’s investment thesis and companies they target
- Why they like to invest in the “Office of the CFO”
- How they invest in established markets vs. emerging markets
- How the investing landscaped has shifted in the last two years
- Why they lead rounds and join the board
- Great “founding moments” are surfaced during turbulent times
- Infrastructure is a core competency
- 2020 – 21 is cause for some investment soul searching from founders and investors
- Do no harm
- Recommended reading: The Outsiders by William Thorndike