In this episode of Alternative Allocations, Tony sits down with Bobby to discuss the current landscape of private equity and growth equity investing. Bobby shares his insights on the market's shift post-2021, the emergence of new opportunities in areas such as AI, FinTech, and sustainable energy, and the importance of investing at a discount to public market valuations. The conversation also touches on the expected increase in exits through IPOs and M&A activity, driven by a more favorable business environment.

Robert "Bobby" Stevenson is a Co-Head of Private Investing for Franklin Equity Group and Managing Director of Franklin Venture Partners, the firm's specialized investment team that invests in private opportunities, focusing on mid- and late-stage companies it believes are poised for transformative impacts across multiple industries.

Bobby joined Franklin Templeton Investments in 2004. Previously he was a research analyst and portfolio manager specializing in equity research analysis within the industrials and technology sectors. His primary research coverage included the automotive, and airline industries, as well as the consumer electronics industry. His previous research coverage also included the cable/satellite and transportation industries. Mr. Stevenson was a member of the management team for Franklin Flex Cap Growth VIP Fund.

He holds a B.A. in economics from UCLA. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder and a member of the Securities Analysts of San Francisco (SASF).

Resources:

Robert Stevenson | LinkedIn
Alternatives by Franklin Templeton
Tony Davidow, CIMA® | LinkedIn