Dakota Research Podcast

In Episode 15 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we dive into the evolving world of co-investing—how LPs are gaining direct deal exposure, cutting fees, and strengthening GP relationships. From traditional buyouts to infrastructure and private credit, co-investments are reshaping portfolio strategies across the private markets.

We explore key structures, benefits, and risks, as well as data from StepStone and Goldman Sachs showing co-investments’ rise among institutional investors. The episode also highlights strategies from leading firms like HarbourVest, Ardian, Pantheon, Adams Street, and AlpInvest. We close with real-world case studies, including ArcLight’s natural gas pipeline co-investment and Niobra...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, André Mehta joins Michaud Capital Management as senior managing director to lead client success and investment strategy, while Ronald Meraz takes on the role of regional director at Citigroup overseeing over 275 branches across California and Nevada. BNP Paribas sees leadership changes in Southeast Asia as See Piu Chua departs and the Malaysia team expands under Sean Tay. On the RIA front, LPL Financial adds $330M Merrill Lynch advisor Mai Park, Raymond James recruits a $205M team from Janney, and Carson Group fully acquires $365M SRQ Wealth, marking its 25th wholly owned off...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Humberto Garcia de Alba is named CEO of BBVA Global Wealth Advisors, Peter Mistina joins QP Global Family Offices as VP of Investments, and Bruno Saintonge takes on a senior private markets role at Quebec’s $3B RRCEGQ pension. On the RIA side, Focus Financial is merging $35B Kovitz into $140B Focus Partners Wealth in a major hub firm consolidation, while former UBS advisors launch GLR Partners and ex-Choreo advisors establish XRSM Wealth under Mariner Independent. Institutionally, Quincy Retirement is running a $10M private equity search and Mendocino County prepares a real...

In Episode 14 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we break down how artificial intelligence is transforming private markets—from infrastructure M&A to private equity strategy. We explore the CoreWeave–Weights & Biases deal, Coatue’s $1B innovation fund backed by Bezos and Dell, and how firms like EQT and a16z are integrating AI into everything from sourcing to value creation.

The episode covers foundational AI concepts, subfields like NLP and generative AI, and how industries such as healthcare, finance, and logistics are evolving with the technology. We also highlight top AI-focused venture firms—Sequoia, a16z, Khosla Ventures...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Chad Oviatt joins First National Bank as CIO, Bola Olusanya is named CIO at MacArthur Foundation, and Sean Olesen heads to the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. Hightower Advisors makes its first 2025 deal with a strategic investment in $3.8B Lindbrook Capital, marking the final transaction under outgoing CEO Bob Oros, while Raymond James adds a $450M UBS breakaway team, and MPact Capital launches in Charlotte with a digital asset-backed impact strategy. On the institutional side, IL SURS is gathering info for diversifying strategies, Manchester approved a shift toward equities, and Kern County al...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Jim Bethea is joining West Virginia University Foundation as CIO, Karen Horn Welch will be promoted to CIO at Spider Management, and Christopher Schelling joined Aksia as Managing Director. In RIA moves, Sanctuary Wealth recruited a $2B UBS team to form 1280 Financial Partners, &Partners added $650M Geller Private Wealth from Ameriprise, and WLTH Capital launched in Arizona. Blackstone hired Jennifer Abate to lead RIA distribution, and VisionPoint and Navitas merged to form Balefire. On the institutional side, San Diego City selected Callan as private markets consultant, and Dallas Police & Fire committed $30M...

In Episode 13 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we explore the top real estate investment themes shaping private markets in 2025. From hyperscale data centers and renewable energy infrastructure to life sciences, logistics, and hospitality, real estate is no longer just about buildings—it’s about innovation. We unpack how sectors like AI, power, and global digital transformation are driving capital flows into modern real assets.

The episode also covers major private market updates, including Clearlake’s $7.7B acquisition of Dun & Bradstreet, TPG’s new sports platform, and fundraising news from Apera, Escalate Capital, and Applico. Plus, we highlight real est...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Border to Coast appointed Peter Gent as head of investment advisory, Cetera named John Lefferts to lead Cetera Investors, and Pritzker Alternative Strategies made several key hires as it builds out its investment team. On the M&A front, Blackstone tapped Lazard veteran Jennifer Abate to lead its RIA channel, VisionPoint and Navitas merged to form Balefire, and Janney expanded into Florida with the Integrity Wealth team. Plymouth County issued a $10M private equity RFP, Arizona Public Safety Pension adjusted its asset allocation, and Massachusetts PRIM committed €375M to Advent. Other upda...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Nicole Puller Ross was promoted to regional head of Northeast private wealth at Goldman Sachs, Cliff Corso became CEO of AAM, and Brian Scharf joined Zell Family Office. On the RIA front, EFE acquired Cahill Wealth Management, Americana Partners added a $1.5B team from Morgan Stanley, and LPL picked up Northern Advisory Group. Institutional activity included OPPRS launching a $50M private credit RFP, Maryland SRPS outlining up to $2.5B in annual PE pacing, and New Jersey DOI committing $1.5B across five managers. Other investments came from University of Kentucky, Seattle City ER...

In this Dakota Research Interview, Chris LeRoy speaks with Matt Miller, Founder and Managing Partner of Grey Rock Investment Partners, about the firm’s dual strategy across traditional energy and low-carbon investments. Matt shares how Grey Rock identifies high-return opportunities in upstream oil and gas, while also scaling decarbonization projects in carbon capture, electrification, and methane abatement. He discusses the firm’s disciplined, data-driven approach to risk, capital deployment, and policy insight while emphasizing the role of cash-on-cash returns and low leverage. The conversation also explores Grey Rock’s strong DPI track record, talent-driven culture, and the evolving investment landsc...

In Episode 12 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we dive into the high-stakes world of aerospace and defense. From major deals like Thoma Bravo’s $10.6B acquisition of Boeing’s digital flight assets to Neuralink’s $500M raise, we spotlight the biggest private market moves this week.

The main discussion unpacks why aerospace and defense are drawing increased private equity interest—from counter-cyclical defense budgets and long-term government contracts to surging investment in space, cybersecurity, and dual-use AI. We highlight key subsectors, investment strategies, and the firms leading the charge, including AE Industrial Partners, Lux Capital, and Veritas. Addition...

In this week’s Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Jon Ritter joins Texas Municipal Retirement as MD of Real Assets, Dylan Campbell joins the University of Oklahoma Foundation, and Edward Jones launches alts access for $10M+ clients via CAIS. On the RIA front, Redwood Family Wealth launches in Texas, Merit acquires Safeguard Wealth in Wisconsin, and The Northshore Group moves $1.5B from Wells Fargo to &Partners. Institutional updates include new manager searches in St. Louis and Philadelphia, investments from Ventura, San Mateo, and Wayne County, and fundraising highlights like StepStone’s $3.77B real estate secondaries fund, Apera’s €2.9B private debt fun...

In this week’s episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, we cover job changes including Matt Benson’s expanded role at UBS, Stacia Hatfield joining Blue Owl, and Eric Haley’s upcoming retirement from OMERS. On the RIA/FA M&A front, Jeff Purdon joins Raymond James, RBC recruits The MK Group from Merrill Lynch, and Anna Rathbun launches her own RIA. Institutional highlights include Oklahoma Police’s international equity RFP, Plymouth’s upcoming real estate RFP, and new investments by Baltimore, Idaho PERS, Jacksonville, and Merced County. Fundraising updates feature Gaw Capital’s $2B target for Gateway Fund VIII, C...

In this episode of Dakota Research, host Chris LeRoy sits down with Dr. Rana el Kaliouby, co-founder and managing partner of Blue Tulip Ventures, to explore the future of human-centric AI innovation. Drawing from her groundbreaking work as an AI scientist and entrepreneur, Dr. el Kaliouby shares the vision behind Blue Tulip Ventures: investing in AI startups that amplify human capabilities in health, wellness, productivity, and sustainable living.

The conversation highlights how Blue Tulip targets pre-seed and seed-stage companies with defensible technology, proprietary data, and real-world impact. Dr. el Kaliouby discusses the firm's technical diligence advantage, stemming...

In Episode 11 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we explore how the investment management industry is rapidly evolving. We kick off with key private equity headlines, including a16z’s $20B AI fundraise, Blackstone’s $10.8B European real estate close, and Bain Capital’s $1B deal for Sizzling Platter.

Our deep dive focuses on structural shifts reshaping the sector—from consolidation among asset managers and RIAs to the growing demand for alternative investments. We discuss fee pressure, the rise of semi-liquid fund structures, and how public and private markets are converging. We also examine the expansion of family offices...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover job moves including Tony Pritzker launching Pritzker Alternative Strategies, Akshay Patel joining North Dakota Trust Lands, and Dylan Campbell moving to the University of Oklahoma Foundation. In RIA news, Fortgage Capital Advisors launched with backing from Elevation Point, LPL recruited the $350M Synergy Wealth Strategies team, and Integrated Partners added Albritton Financial. Institutional activity includes new RFPs from Oklahoma PERS and Los Angeles City Employees’ Retirement System, plus over $1.1B in new commitments from New Mexico SIC, including to Ares, iCon, and Asana. Ohio SERS also co...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover job changes including Ashu Pal joining Nomura Capital from Maryland State Retirement, Jeff Peterson becoming CIO at Dallas-based Gillion Capital, and Alexander Dorf named Deputy CIO at Arizona PSPRS. On the RIA side, Barzideh & Nadeau Wealth launched in Illinois, Angel Oak alumni launched Sardis Group in Atlanta, and BFS acquired $350M Napatree Capital. Institutionally, Callan and the Government of Guam issued new RFPs, while San Antonio Police & Fire Fund plans $220M in private market pacing. Recent commitments include LA Fire & Police allocating $105M across private equity...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key job moves including Cheryl Alston stepping down after 20 years at Dallas ERF, Sam Johnson joining Gresham Partners, and Atria co-founders exiting LPL. On the RIA front, Osaic adds $450M Wichita firm NoxNumis, while new firms SoundRidge Private Wealth and Exponent Wealth launch. Morgan Stanley gains an $875M team from JPMorgan, and Raymond James picks up an $828M team from RBC. Institutionally, consultant decisions were made across San Diego, Alameda, and Oregon pensions, and real assets pacing plans were updated across several systems. New commitments include...

In Episode 10 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we cover the latest in private equity—from fundraising momentum and major deals to key people moves. Highlights include Goldman Sachs’ new PE fund for high-net-worth investors, HarbourVest’s $500M platform launch, and Rocket Companies’ $9.4B acquisition of Mr. Cooper Group. We also spotlight Pophouse Entertainment’s €1.2B debut fund and Investindustrial’s €4B flagship close.

This episode’s deep dive focuses on the consumer sector: why it’s appealing to private investors and how firms are building value. We explore strategies like buy-and-build, brand acceleration, and digital transformation, plus themes like health a...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch highlight job moves including Sam Johnson joining Gresham Partners, two Northern Trust vets joining Endeavor Advisors, and Soltis naming Jeffrey Harris as head of M&A. On the RIA side, Stifel completed its acquisition of part of B. Riley’s wealth unit, LPL alum Scott Bloom launched Wealthetic, and Exponent Wealth debuted in Utah.

Institutionally, Oklahoma Teachers’ and Police Pensions outlined 2025 pacing plans, Austin Firefighters terminated Highclere, and TRS of Texas and Border to Coast made new commitments across real estate, energy, and PE. Fundraising high...

In this episode of Dakota Research, Chris LeRoy sits down with Jeff Weller, Co-CEO of Lion Real Estate Group, to discuss the firm’s value-add investment strategy in multifamily real estate across high-growth Sunbelt markets like Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, and Colorado. Jeff shares how Lion acquires and repositions distressed assets, enhances value through strategic renovations, and leverages long-term financing to maximize returns. He also highlights Fund III ($300M-$500M), recent acquisitions, and why 2024-2025 presents one of the best real estate investment opportunities since the Great Financial Crisis. Plus, insights into market trends, future investment themes, and Lion’s long...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Konch covers job changes including Antonella Carranco joining Cortes Capital, David Wilson moving to JANA, and Etienne Dion joining iA Global AM. On the RIA side, LPL is acquiring First Horizon Advisors’ $16B platform, Cerity Partners picked up Raleigh-based Cook Wealth, and Raymond James recruited an $828M RBC team. 

Institutionally, Franklin and Falmouth retirement systems are running searches, while Virginia, Rhode Island, and Baltimore ERS made new commitments across real estate, private equity, and credit. On the fundraising front, Andros Capital closed a $1B energy fund and Trive Cap...

In Episode 9 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we cover the latest in private equity news and trends—from BlackRock’s new public-private model portfolios to Olympus Partners’ $3.5B fund close and OpenAI’s record-breaking $40B raise. The episode’s deep dive explores the IPO pipeline, breaking down the steps of going public, pros and cons, and key 2025 trends. We also highlight notable IPOs like Klarna, Hinge Health, and CoreWeave. Whether you’re tracking fundraising, deal activity, or market shifts, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you stay informed and ahead in private markets.

Tired of fragmented data slowing...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Konch spotlights key job moves and deal activity across the institutional and wealth landscape. Elise Angelich joins Cliffwater in LA from JSF Financial, while Con Michalakis is named CIO at Funda SA after nearly three years at Hostplus. On the RIA front, Cerity Partners is acquiring $1.8B AUM West Coast Financial, and EP Wealth enhances its Northern California footprint with the acquisition of Peninsula Wealth. Institutional highlights include search and allocation updates from Howard County, Holyoke, and Alameda County, and new commitments from Vermont Pension, STRS Ohio, and Ohio Police...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Konch and Matt Marino discuss notable industry job moves, including Christina Kopec Rooney's appointment as head of US wealth at Wellington, Sona Menon joining Morgan Stanley to lead its $184B OCIO platform, and Hannah Menachem joining the North Carolina Treasury Department's PE team. On the RIA front, LPL Financial makes waves with its $2.7B acquisition of Commonwealth Financial Network, and NewEdge Securities brings on a $1.4B team from Merrill Lynch. Institutional updates include new search activity from INPRS and Cambridge Retirement, plus fresh commitments from IMRF, Texas CDRS, and Japan...

In Episode 8 of the Dakota Research Podcast, we unpack the latest in private equity—from fundraising momentum and major deal activity to key personnel shifts. Highlights include Turn/River’s $2.5B fund close, Google’s $32B acquisition of Wiz, and Blue Owl’s new family capital initiative. This episode also dives into early-stage venture capital: what it is, why it matters, and how deals are structured. Plus, we spotlight trends shaping the VC landscape and share upcoming funds in market.

Tired of fragmented data slowing you down? Book a demo of Dakota Research to centralize critical investment data and...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover job moves across the investment landscape, including CalPERS Deputy CIO Dan Bienvenue departing to join General Atlantic, Genan Kirby joining Iowa State Bank, and Nick Schwartzetel moving from HarbourVest to CIBC Private Wealth. On the RIA front, Focus Financial is reportedly in talks to acquire $10B Churchill Management, Raymond James added $365M advisor Jason Torrey-Payne, and Waverly Advisors expanded its northeast presence with the addition of Baltimore-based GGM Wealth Advisors. On the institutional side, Iowa PERS selected five absolute return managers, Ohio STRS approved a revised...

In this episode of Dakota Research, Chris LeRoy talks with Frazer Blyth, Head of Investor Relations & Marketing at Bluewater Energy, about the firm’s global private equity strategy in the energy supply chain. Bluewater, with over 14 years of investing experience, focuses on industrials, specialist services, and key innovations driving efficiency, decarbonization, and energy security. Frazer shares insights into Bluewater’s investment approach, buy-and-build strategy, and international expansion, along with a look at Fund III and upcoming opportunities. Tune in for a deep dive into energy investment and the evolving supply chain.

Tired of fragmented data...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover a wave of key job moves, including Ty Powers rejoining North Carolina’s Department of State Treasurer, Sona Menon being tapped to lead Morgan Stanley’s $184B OCIO unit, and Natalie Fitch joining the firm from Hamilton Lane. In RIA/FA M&A, Raymond James brings on $320M Biss Wealth Partners from Edward Jones, and RBC recruits a $300M UBS team in Las Vegas. Institutional updates include CalSTRS reappointing Meketa as its general investment consultant, upcoming search activity from Colorado PERA and Los Angeles Fire & Police, and...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key industry updates, starting with the record-breaking $6.1 billion sale of the Boston Celtics and major job moves, including Erick Liu joining Russell Investments, Tracy Gage moving to Wilshire, and Belinda Curtis rejoining TelstraSuper. In RIA/FA M&A, Wealth Enhancement acquires $3B Marcum Wealth, Wells Fargo recruits a $540M team from Stifel, and Raymond James adds a $390M UBS advisor in Florida. Institutional updates feature ACCESS LGPS Pool hiring Arcmont and Golub Capital for senior secured direct lending mandates, Teachers Retirement System of Louisiana making new...

In this episode of The Dakota Research Podcast, the team dives into the latest private equity news, including major fundraising highlights, notable deals, and key personnel moves. A central focus is energy investing, featuring insights from Bluewater on how private markets are shaping the future of energy transition. The discussion covers investment pathways in renewables, battery storage, and nuclear energy, emphasizing private capital’s role in financing sustainable infrastructure. The episode also highlights regulatory shifts, M&A trends, and investor strategies for navigating market volatility. Closing with upcoming events, the episode offers actionable takeaways for industry professionals.

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key job moves, including Blake Shorthouse joining Blue Owl Capital as Global Head of Family Capital, Sam Anderson and Harris Baltch taking leadership roles at Dynasty Investment Bank, and Colin Simpson moving to Manulife as CFO. In RIA/FA M&A, LPL Financial acquires The Investment Center, adding $7B in assets, Integrated Partners expands with Prout Financial Design, and Kovitz acquires Transform Wealth, bringing in $3B in client assets. Institutional updates include Illinois Police Officers Pension Fund preparing a $390M RFP for small-cap equity managers and...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key job moves, including Ben Meng's appointment as Head of Investment Portfolio Management at CPP Investments, David Vickers becoming CIO at Windmill Hill Asset Management, and Sholton Davidson joining Abu Dhabi Investment Council. In RIA/FA M&A, LPL Financial acquires The Investment Center, adding $7B in assets, expands with a four-advisor team via Carnegie Private Wealth, and recruits Charles Kraft from Wells Fargo. Institutional updates highlight consultant searches at Worcester Retirement System and Quincy Retirement System’s $62M in private market commitments. Fundraising news features Br...

In this episode of The Dakota Research Podcast, the team explores the latest private equity news, highlighting major fundraising rounds, notable acquisitions, and key industry moves. The discussion centers on lower middle market (LMM) buyouts, featuring insights from Eden Capital. The conversation covers the appeal of LMM investments, including valuation arbitrage, buy-and-build opportunities, and operational enhancements. The episode also examines investment risks, mitigation strategies, and exit options for private equity firms in this sector. Concluding with upcoming events, this episode provides actionable insights for investors navigating the LMM landscape.

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover notable job changes, including Reid Spears joining Texas Permanent School Fund as Senior Investment Officer for Private Credit, Bryan Pinedo moving to Jefferies Prime Brokerage, and Innes McKeand transitioning to Abu Dhabi Investment Authority as Chief Investment Officer for Equities. In RIA/FA M&A, Apella Wealth acquires Marrella Private Wealth, Americana Partners expands with the acquisition of $2B Boulevard Family Wealth, and HUB International recruits advisors Steve Glasgow and Jordan Sibler in Nashville. Institutional updates include investment consultant searches at CalSTRS and TRS of Illinois...

In this episode of The Dakota Research Podcast, the team covers the latest private equity news, featuring major fundraising rounds, deals, and industry shifts. The main discussion focuses on investing in sports, exploring the increasing role of institutional investors in major leagues and the expansion of private equity in sports franchises. Topics include media rights, sponsorship trends, and the rise of women’s sports as a major investment opportunity. The episode also examines emerging segments like youth sports, sports betting, and technology-driven fan engagement. Closing with upcoming events, the discussion provides actionable insights for investors.

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key job changes, including Terri Sanchez retiring from PA PSERS, Matt Marshall joining Mass PRIM as a Private Equity Investment Officer, and Jimmy Ross moving to Aon as a Senior Investment Consultant. In RIA/FA M&A, Mariner Wealth Advisors acquires $730M Ocean Heights Advisors, CAPTRUST picks up Carolinas Investment Consulting, and LPL Financial recruits the $250M Shorepoint Wealth team from Wells Fargo. Institutional updates include international equity manager searches at Oakland Police and Fire Retirement System and Alameda County Employees Retirement Association, while Rhode Island...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key job changes, including JJ Figlin joining Evoke Advisors, Jack Wildermuth moving to Sendero Wealth Management, and Teddy Repko joining the sovereign wealth fund of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. In RIA/FA M&A, Cetera acquires Concourse Financial Group Securities, Raymond James recruits Edward Gallie from Wells Fargo, and LPL Financial secures a $400M team from Synovus. Institutional updates include private equity commitments from Los Angeles City Employees’ Retirement System and Massachusetts PRIM, while Wisconsin Board of Commissioners of Public Lands allocates $25M to...

In this episode of the Dakota Fundraising News Podcast, Pat and Konch cover key job changes, including JJ Figlin joining Evoke Advisors, Jack Wildermuth moving to Sendero Wealth Management, and Teddy Repko joining the sovereign wealth fund of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. In RIA/FA M&A, Cetera acquires Concourse Financial Group Securities, Raymond James recruits Edward Gallie from Wells Fargo, and LPL Financial secures a $400M team from Synovus. Institutional updates include private equity commitments from Los Angeles City Employees’ Retirement System and Massachusetts PRIM, while Wisconsin Board of Commissioners of Public Lands allocates $25M to...

The Dakota Research Podcast explores key private fund trends. The episode begins with private equity news, covering earnings, fundraising highlights, mergers and acquisitions, portfolio company updates, and industry job changes. The deep dive segment focuses on infrastructure, analyzing investment trends and market shifts. The final segment provides insights and action items, including upcoming events, recent industry notes, and a Q&A session to address audience questions. The discussion highlights major M&A activity and portfolio company developments, offering valuable takeaways for professionals in the private fund and allocator space.