The following text is an excerpt from a larger report. Available upon request. 1. Blended-Value Capital The idea of blended capital paved the way for new thinking across silo networks of maximizing value. It focused on aligning the investments of endowments with the mission of the foundation. The philosophy was launched Jed Emerson, a strategic… Continue reading Trends in Impact Investing
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Impact Investing in South Korea
The following text is an excerpt from a larger report. Available upon request. Country Landscape Overview Korea’s growth initially depended on a low wage, educated and disciplined labor force to produce goods for exports from its predominantly agricultural state possessing few natural resources. When the state prioritized economic development with a combination of state planning… Continue reading Impact Investing in South Korea
Bumpy Roads of China Ahead: Domestic Agenda and Financial Realities
Introduction China today is the second largest global economy, the largest exporter and has the largest exchange reserves in the world. Chinese reforms for its economy began with Deng Xiaoping’s opening agriculture, defense, industry, science, and technology for development with state-led macoeconomic policies. The economic reforms under Deng’s era increased its role of capitalism and… Continue reading Bumpy Roads of China Ahead: Domestic Agenda and Financial Realities
Songjukwon Orphanage
(Originally Written 1/25/2010) Unevenly cut hair and freckled faces were what I have become accustomed to volunteering at the Songjukwon Orphanage for girls in Seoul, Korea. While the general public tends to refer to these girls as simply “the orphans”, having gotten to know these girls as individuals, I am keenly aware that each girl… Continue reading Songjukwon Orphanage
Venture Capital vs. Private Equity
I had my own doubts. Venture capital and private equity are very different disciplines. While both purchase stocks in privately held businesses, I wasn't sure how to quite feel about PE being so risk averse. It was incredibly rare to find a VC portfolio driven by disruption opportunities. I looked closely into the increasing private… Continue reading Venture Capital vs. Private Equity
Lifehack
I love philosophizing about life, and this has been working for me! When you run into people throughout the day, your apartment security guard, colleagues, roommate, people who don't hold doors for you, family, whoever it may be, treat them with authenticity, kindness, and respect. It may not be as easy as it may seem,… Continue reading Lifehack
Happy Accidents
"There are no mistakes. They are happy accidents," said a painter, Bob Ross. I didn't understand it at first, but today was an opportunity to reflect on this. I feel I get to meet people from different walks of life. Today was particularly so. I chatted for a long time with folks at a Youtube… Continue reading Happy Accidents