Alternative Thinking from GrowthInvest

In this special 'black tie' episode we are joined by Dr Paul Mattick from Mercia Asset Management and Nick Priest from Downing to discuss the current landscape of VCTs, AIM, and tax-efficient investing, ahead of the 2025 Autumn Budget. We explore how market sentiment, product availability, and anticipated policy changes are influencing adviser and investor behaviour. With fundraising quieter than usual, many advisers are taking a wait-and-see approach ahead of the upcoming government budget. The discussion also covers evolving inheritance tax and pension reforms, potential new initiatives like the British ISA, and how pension capital might play a growing role in private markets over time. If you’re interested in how regulatory shifts and market dynamics are shaping this niche of the investment world, this episode offers valuable insights.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds, #EconomicUpdate

In this episode, Kallum Pickering and Simon French return to share their perspectives on the current economic landscape, discussing recent global economic developments and how major regions are responding to shifting conditions.They examine the cooling of the US labour market, signs of stabilisation in China, and the uneven recovery in Europe and the UK. The conversation highlights the growing importance of political risk, including the pressures facing longstanding institutions and the influence of geopolitical events on economic planning.Both Kallum and Simon also reflect on long-term fiscal challenges and the role of market signals in shaping policy choices. Overall, the episode explores how governments and economies are adapting to a period of persistent uncertainty and structural change.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds, #EconomicUpdate

In this episode we are delighted to speak with James Lowe about Long Term Asset Funds (LTAFs). Key topics we cover are:• Introduction to LTAFs and their history to date• The Regulatory Framework around LTAFs and the broadening of access• The Suitability and Risk.• Liquidity and Fund Structure models• The comparison with Investment Trusts• Market Demand and Education on LTAFs• Technology and Infrastructure requirements needed from platforms• New Regulatory Developments with the inclusion in Stocks & Shares ISAs and via SIPPs• Deeper dive into the Asset Class Suitability within LTAFsDon't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds

We’re excited to share Part 2 of our Private Market podcast mini-series! In this episode, we welcomed back Iain Baillie, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder at Asset Match, and Veronika Oswald, Commercial Director at JP Jenkins, as we explore PISCES, a Treasury and FCA-backed initiative aiming to reshape how unquoted equities are traded in the UK. The goal? To create a regulated, transparent environment that broadens access to private markets. Key topics we covered include: 1. What is PISCES?An introduction to the initiative and its potential to support liquidity and transparency in private equity trading.2. Expanding the Investor BaseWe discuss the shift from high-net-worth individuals to a more diverse group including family offices, smaller institutions, and potentially pension funds. 3. Challenges in UK Capital MarketsFrom declining AIM listings to reduced IPO activity, we unpack the structural issues impacting growth and investor confidence. 4. Barriers to Going PublicHigh costs and limited appetite for smaller companies are pushing firms to consider staying private longer — could PISCES offer a viable alternative? 5. Regulatory OutlookWe explore the FCA’s role, the sandbox period, and how competition among operators (including the LSE) might shape the future landscape. Whether you're in finance, policy, or just curious about the evolution of UK markets, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what’s next.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets, #AIM, #PISCES

We’re excited to share Part 1 of our Private Market podcast series! In this episode, we welcomed Iain Baillie, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder at Asset Match, and Veronica Oswald, Commercial Director at JP Jenkins, to explore how private market venues are evolving to support companies and shareholders.Some of the key discussions included:• Trading Processes & Structures• Types of Companies Using Private Market Venues• Supporting Companies Beyond Trading• Innovative Technology & Cap Table ManagementA great insight into how private market venues are evolving to meet the needs of modern companies and shareholders!Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK. INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website growthinvest.com#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets, #AIM, #PISCES

In this episode, we were delighted to be joined by Marcus Stuttard, Head of AIM & UK Primary Markets at the London Stock Exchange, to explore the following key topics:• How the UK is working to build a seamless funding journey for businesses at every stage• The launch of the new Pisces framework and what it means for private companies• How this development sits alongside existing markets like AIM and the main market• The AIM market & Inheritance Tax changes• The importance of wider reforms and financial education in strengthening the UK’s market ecosystem It was a fascinating discussion about how regulation, innovation, and long-term planning are shaping the future landscape for UK companies.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/ Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets, #AIM, #pisces

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Richard Penny of Oberon Investments, as we explore the current state of UK small and micro-cap stocks and the factors influencing this market.Following a multi-year selloff, twice as severe as the downturn during the Global Financial Crisis, Richard discusses his perspective on market conditions, the trends he’s observing, and why he considers this a notable moment for the sector. In this episode, topics discussed include:Why UK equities, especially small caps, are deeply undervaluedHow institutional outflows and global benchmarks have distorted pricesThe growing impact of buybacks, M&A, and foreign takeoversWhat role pension reform and regulation could play in revitalising UK marketsWhether you're an experienced investor or exploring how broader economic shifts are influencing UK markets, this episode delivers valuable insights and is packed with sharp analysis.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! In the final episode of this series, guests Simon French and Kallum Pickering explore a growing sense of optimism around the UK’s capital markets and the opportunities that could lie ahead.They unpack key issues including the significant flow of UK pension funds into overseas markets, particularly the US, and how this trend may be undermining domestic growth potential. Years of underperformance have triggered a damaging cycle of outflows and low returns, but the conversation points to a path forward: revitalising UK public markets to improve productivity, restore effective price discovery, and attract fresh investment. The discussion also highlights the broader societal impact of low domestic share ownership, and makes the case for bold, coordinated policy reform that reconnects capital markets with the real economy and re-engages the public in the UK’s financial future. Listen now to hear why the tide may be turning for UK markets.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong.CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! In this episode, we dive into how the Labour Government's approach to foreign policy and trade, even as domestic reform remains complex. Key themes include:- Labour Governments’ approach to UK-EU cooperation in trade, defence, and regulation.- The long-term economic impact of Brexit and how closer ties with Europe could reduce trade friction.- Defence as a potential catalyst for deeper economic reintegration.- The Bank of England’s uncertain policy stance and its effect on investment confidence.- How immigration, if well-managed, could boost UK growth and scale over the long term.Listen in for a clear, finance-focused take on the UK’s evolving economic strategyDon't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! In today’s rapidly evolving global economic landscape, we’re excited to introduce the first episode in a three-part mini-series of our Alternative Thinking podcast, featuring Simon French and Kallum Pickering. This special series lays the groundwork for our new quarterly feature, offering clear, balanced insights into the key economic forces impacting both global and UK public and private markets. In this opening episode, we turn our focus to the global economy, examining the growing risks of a trade war and the potential return to 1930s-style tariffs. With expert analysis, we explore the impact of fractured supply chains, shifting dollar dynamics, and intensifying geopolitical pressures. From investor uncertainty and weakening multilateral trade systems to the rise of bilateralism and Europe’s potential defence-tech resurgence, this episode is essential listening for anyone looking to make sense of the changing economic tides.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #privatemarkets

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! In this episode, we explore the latest developments shaping the financial and investment landscape as the tax year drew to a close. We begin with a review of tax season trends, highlighting the continued strength of VCT inflows which are a clear indication of sustained demand for tax-efficient investments in a challenging economic climate. The discussion also covers recent activity in the AIM market, offering insights into performance and opportunities for clients seeking growth or Business Relief. Looking ahead, we unpack the upcoming pension regulation changes set for 2026, outlining what financial advisers and their clients need to consider now to stay ahead. Whether you're an adviser, investor, or industry professional, this episode delivers timely insights and practical takeaways from a fast-moving financial environment.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #IHT, #Businessrelief #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! In this episode, we explore the growing appeal of evergreen EIS funds, what sets them apart, how they’re structured, and why long-term investors are taking notice. Guests Mark Bower-Easton (Oxford Capital) and Andrew Aldridge (Deepbridge Capital) join us to discuss fund fees, transparency efforts with EISA, and how fee models impact investor returns.We also dive into liquidity and exit opportunities, examining current trends in the EIS market, challenges ahead, and the role of AIM and the LSE in providing exit routes for investors.Tune in now for expert insights and practical takeaways for investors, fund managers, and anyone interested in the future of EIS.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #AI #investors #advisers #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #eis #iht #seis

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data with two incredible guests, Prof. Andy Pardoe, Founder of VentureFlows, and David Walters, Investment Director at River Capital. From AI’s origins to its game changing impact today and where it might take us next, we explore the past, present, and future of this transformative technology. Don’t miss it!Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-ce...Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #AI #investors #advisers #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! On this episode, we’re joined by Kealan Doyle, CEO & Co-Founder of Symvan Capital, and Jeffrey Faustin, Managing Partner & CIO at Jenson Ventures, for an insightful discussion on SEIS, exits, and liquidity. We explore the key differences between SEIS and EIS, the benefits of running separate funds, and the realities of exits in today’s economic climate. How long should investors realistically expect to wait for exit proceeds? Is there a trade-off between maximising exit value and returning capital sooner?Tune in now for expert insights and forward-looking perspectives!Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-ce...Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarkets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #eis #seis #startups

The next episode of our Alternative Thinking Podcast isnow live, and we are delighted to welcome our guest Sam Smith, founder of Cavendish Financial, author of The Secret Sauce and champion of entrepreneurship in the UK, with her exciting new venture, Superscalers. The podcast takes a deep dive into the UK start up ecosystem, from the roots of founding businesses to the vital part of superscaling to over £50m revenue. We discuss the importance of capital markets, funding options, government policy, the challenges for founders, particularly underrepresented, and the huge part entrepreneurship plays for UK growth.

Our latest Alternative Thinking podcast is now live! Join us as we welcome Paul Davidson from Octopus Ventures, Will Fraser-Allen from Albion Capital, and Paul Mattick from Mercia and the Northern VCTs as we explore the VCT market past, present and future, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of VCTs!

On this week's Alternative Thinking episode we welcome regular guest Dr Paul Mattick, Head of Sales & Private Investor Relations at Mercia Asset Management, as well as Andrew Baird, Strategic Partnerships at Downing to discuss the recent Autumn Budget and the US election, and their effects on tax efficient products.

We were delighted to have this week as our guest Kallum Pickering, Chief Economist at Peel Hunt, for an insightful episode of the 'Alternative Thinking' podcast. This episode dives into the recent U.S. election result and explores its macro implications for both global and UK markets, along with discussions on the recent fiscal changes in the Autumn Budget.

On today’s episode of our ‘Alternative Thinking’ podcast we welcome Stuart Beaver, Wealth Planning Director atCazenove Capital. On this episode, Stuart talks to us about asset allocation, the cyclical nature of the markets and navigating them, where alternatives feature in investor portfolios and the need for technology and platforms.

This episode of our 'Alternative Thinking' podcast focuses on the upcoming Autumn Budget and the potential impact to the tax efficient investment landscape. We welcome back our regular guests Paul Mattick from Mercia and the Northern VCTs and Nick Priest from Downing, who join our hosts, Melissa Griffiths and Steve Dobson, as they delve into possible tax changes affecting capital gains, inheritance, carried interest and pensions.