The Evolving Role of VC in the Innovation Economy and PE Trends and Themes in the Age of COVID-19

Venture capital has played a key role in the United States' economic leadership over the last 40 years, fueling the formation of new industries and propelling the highest growth sectors of the economy. Over that period, a cottage industry that was concentrated in three states has become increasingly institutionalized and global.  We will discuss the evolution and the implications. We will also review the recent market themes and long-term secular drivers of the private equity markets. Trends in fundraising, deal activity, exits and leveraged finance will also be explored, as well as the shift in capital formation from public sources of capital to private, and the implications for investors, regulators, and other capital markets participants.   

Presenters:

John Neis, Executive Managing Director, Venture Investors

Michael Rogers, Principal (retired), Ernst & Young

Peter Witte, Associate Director, U.S. Private Equity, Ernst & Young