Ignite LP: Scaling Investments and Building Strategies in Private Markets with Matt Curtolo | #129

Ignite: Conversations on Startups, Venture Capital, Tech, Future, and Society

In this episode of the Ignite podcast, host Brian Bell interviews Matt Curtolo, an experienced LP, allocator, and private markets expert with over 20 years in the industry. Matt shares his journey, from starting his career at Hamilton Lane in 2004 to his work with MetLife and later transitioning to a fintech startup, Allocate. He discusses how his early days in the back office shaped his understanding of private markets and the importance of embracing serendipity in career decisions. Matt offers valuable insights into the evolution of asset allocation strategies, highlighting his role in managing portfolios for institutional clients and family offices. He explains how innovative platforms like Allocate are democratizing access to top-tier venture funds for high-net-worth individuals, offering a tech-driven solution to bridge the gap between GPs and LPs. Matt also emphasizes the importance of scaling investments while maintaining rigorous diligence processes to optimize outcomes. The conversation delves into what LPs look for in emerging managers, especially those raising their first few funds. Matt outlines key factors such as GP thesis fit, transparency, and authenticity, noting that early-stage investments often center on the story and vision of the manager. He shares his perspective on venture capital’s unique potential for exponential growth and reflects on how the industry is embracing digital transformation to reach new levels of efficiency and inclusion. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, where Matt shares his favorite investing book, thoughts on venture capital trends, and lessons learned from his career. His advice to his younger self? Take risks and remain flexible. Tune in for an inspiring discussion packed with actionable takeaways for LPs, GPs, and anyone navigating the world of private markets. Chapters: 00:01 - 00:34 Introduction 00:35 - 03:25 Matt’s Early Career and the Back Office at Hamilton Lane 03:26 - 06:20 Transition to Client-Facing Roles and Key Lessons Learned 06:21 - 09:46 Managing Portfolios for Smaller Institutions 09:47 - 12:50 Navigating Alternatives and Asset Allocation 12:51 - 15:30 Moving to MetLife and Managing a $700 Billion Portfolio 15:31 - 18:55 Joining Allocate: Democratizing Venture Capital 18:56 - 22:22 The Value Proposition for GPs and LPs 22:23 - 26:55 What LPs Look for in Emerging Managers 26:56 - 30:31 Evaluating Funds 1, 2, and 3 30:32 - 34:43 Trends in Private Markets and Venture Capital 34:44 - 39:45 The Rise of Remote Work in Finance 39:46 - 46:06 Rapid-Fire Questions 46:07 - 47:36 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Matt