https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-forest-returns-1-a-year-so-why-do-we-still-own-it The Forest Returns 1% a Year. So Why Do We Still Own It? The newsletter, where I write up what I am seeing: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Our family forest returns about 1% per year, and for most of the time we have owned it that was fine, because the forest was the family bank. Bark beetles, storms and drought broke that premise, so I shortened the rotation, took capital out of the trees, and had to decide where it goes instead. In this video I walk through why that money went into venture capital, deal by deal, and why we still keep the forest anyway. CHAPTERS 0:00 The reality of managing a family forest 1:26 When the forest bank account hits a crisis 3:53 Adapting the strategy for a new era 6:34 Balancing the forest with venture risk Im Johannes Gemmingen, Managing Partner at Auctora Partners. We invest in deeptech companies building actual technology. Its not a fund. I anchor every deal with my own capital, then invite co-investors in on the same terms. WATCH NEXT https://youtu.be/cpWzykOSOZ0?si=rltuLyAHZdkKPaFs https://video-meta.open.video/poster/EDmE7riBY6Pi/mRaqJhNaBz2_ZdvVjX.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/EDmE7riBY6Pi/1787342607/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mRaqJhNaBz2 610 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/even-europes-biggest-vcs-cant-get-into-these-deals-building-a-vc-ep-21 Even Europes Biggest VCs Cant Get Into These Deals Building a VC Ep. 21 The newsletter, where I write up what I am seeing: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ I asked one of Germanys biggest VCs how you get into the seed rounds everyone reads about, and he told me they cant get into them either. This episode starts at the Venture Kick demo brunch in Zurich with four deeptech founders from the top 2.5 percent of applicants, and ends with the question I still dont have an answer to, how do you get invited into a round that was closed before anyone heard about it. CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 0:22 Venture Kick demo brunch, Zurich 2:28 Catching Deeptech Founders at Demo Brunch 11:01 Why the best rounds never reach the market 13:25 ESA business incubation centre at ETH Im Johannes Gemmingen, Managing Partner at Auctora Partners. We invest in deeptech and medtech, companies building actual technology. Its not a fund. I anchor every deal with my own capital, then invite co-investors in on the same terms. WATCH NEXT https://www.youtube.com/show/VLPLHdlgGoESaRc?sbp=QAE%3D https://video-meta.open.video/poster/yLjsQhClAMAJ/S7GbJxhbBz2_LSHIUL.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/yLjsQhClAMAJ/1787342565/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=S7GbJxhbBz2 825 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/fire-drone-startup-pitch Fire Drone startup pitch At Venture Kick Demo Day, which they call a Demo Brunch, I walked up to this founder and asked him about his startup. They developed a drone that can operate in high temperature environments to help firefighters with reconnaissance. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/6nqYJvOtw6PJ/mRbqdhhqBz2_uQQhht.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/6nqYJvOtw6PJ/1787342575/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mRbqdhhqBz2 125 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/this-sleep-hack-is-actually-genius-innovation-startup-venturekick This sleep hack is actually genius innovation startup venturekick Discover the innovative sleep hack that is revolutionizing the way we rest, a true masterpiece of entrepreneurship born out of a founders passion for sleep tracking and supported by venture capital firms investing in startups that prioritize health and wellness. In this video, we delve into the world of sleep innovation, exploring how investing in startups focused on sleep technology can lead to groundbreaking solutions. Through an exclusive founder interview, we gain insight into the creative process behind this sleep hack, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship and the role of venture capital in bringing such innovative ideas to life. By combining cutting-edge sleep tracking with a deep understanding of human sleep patterns, this sleep hack is poised to disrupt the industry and improve the lives of millions, a testament to the power of innovation and the potential of startups to drive meaningful change. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/A3ykIxztFIBQ/mRHqJxMqAj2_GzBImp.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/A3ykIxztFIBQ/1787342499/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mRHqJxMqAj2 136 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/years-of-work-one-decision-a-startups-pivot-story-building-a-vc-ep-20 Years of Work, One Decision: A Startups Pivot Story Building a VC Ep. 20 Every startup founder hears the advice: Listen to your customers. But what happens when that means abandoning the product youve spent years building? In this episode, I visit an ETH Zurich startup that made one of the toughest decisions in entrepreneurship: a complete product pivot. What started as an innovative rocking bed designed to improve sleep evolved into a completely different company focused on contactless sleep sensing technology. I sat down with the founders to understand why they changed direction, how investors reacted, and what every founder can learn from putting the mission above the product. Along the way, I also attend the 20th anniversary of Venture Leaders, one of Switzerlands most prestigious startup programs, and take you behind the scenes of the Swiss deep tech ecosystem. In this episode: Touring Switzerland Innovation Park in Dübendorf Why ETH Zurich startup Calmea pivoted from a rocking bed to sleep sensing How founders know when its time to change direction What investors think about startup pivots Mission vs. product: the mindset behind successful founders Behind the scenes at 20 Years of Venture Leaders in Switzerland If youre interested in startups, venture capital, deep tech, or building companies from scratch, subscribe and follow the journey as we build a venture capital firm, one investment, one founder, and one lesson at a time. Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Startups VentureCapital Pivot Entrepreneurship ETHZurich DeepTech SleepTech VentureKick VentureLeaders SwissStartups BuildingTheVC https://video-meta.open.video/poster/FFzc_tCB3Yyc/SRHbcghWAy2_NfELcM.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/FFzc_tCB3Yyc/1787342750/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=SRHbcghWAy2 745 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/are-you-killing-your-startup-by-staying-remote-businessstrategy-startup Are you killing your startup by staying remote? businessstrategy startup In this insightful video, we explore how Swiss startups are proactively engaging in international trade and going global, particularly by establishing a strong presence in the Bay Area. We examine the unique strategies these startup companies employ to export their innovations and compete on a global scale. This discussion highlights the importance of physical presence for European deeptech ventures seeking to thrive in Silicon Valley. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/AeCEVDOJx6rd/TlPrdNNq752_TvHpBK.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/AeCEVDOJx6rd/1787347586/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=TlPrdNNq752 17 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/what-silicon-valley-gets-that-nowhere-else-does-siliconvalley-tech What Silicon Valley gets that nowhere else does siliconvalley tech We explore the concept of 10x thinking and how it can be used to drive business growth and achieve exceptional results. By adopting this mindset, youll be able to think bigger, aim higher, and develop a business strategy that sets you up for long-term success. Whether youre a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this video will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to scale your business and achieve your goals. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/BqCwZzjYx2XH/nliWd3gX752_wPkAVw.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/BqCwZzjYx2XH/1787347581/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=nliWd3gX752 8 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/what-i-learned-from-the-bay-areas-10x-mindset What I Learned from the Bay Areas 10x Mindset Learn the secrets of Silicon Valleys most successful entrepreneurs and discover how to apply a growth mindset to your business strategy. The Bay Area is renowned for its innovative approach to scaling companies, with many founders securing venture capital to turn their ideas into reality. In this video, well explore the concept of 10x thinking and how it can be used to drive business growth and achieve exceptional results. By adopting this mindset, youll be able to think bigger, aim higher, and develop a business strategy that sets you up for long-term success. Whether youre a seasoned founder or just starting out, this video will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to scale your business and achieve your goals. With the right mindset and strategy, you can take your company to the next level and join the ranks of Silicon Valleys most successful businesses. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/6Sj63nP6ZMZI/edHjdwMH7z2_OUcBmt.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/6Sj63nP6ZMZI/1787348250/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=edHjdwMH7z2 19 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/every-top-founder-wants-this-one-thing-yc-founders-startup Every Top Founder Wants This One Thing yc founders startup In this video, I share my current investment strategy, focusing exclusively on Y Combinator startups. While some might see it as an extreme stance, this approach to investing has been a tremendous success for me. I believe in the future of these ventures and the potential for significant returns in how to invest in startups, especially within the dynamic world of venture capital. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/DpaYMzOI_2jd/edbOcwMXA42_HsHmuI.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/DpaYMzOI_2jd/1787348349/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=edbOcwMXA42 50 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/im-33-if-youre-in-your-20s-or-30s-watch-this Im 33. If Youre In Your 20s or 30s, Watch This. I was arrested when I was 13. At 25 I was drinking 5 nights a week. Now at 33, Ive restructured a 138-year-old family business, managed 140 employees, worked in private equity evaluating 100M deals, and launched my own investment and advisory firm. Here are 6 lessons I learned the hard way that changed everything. 0:00 - Intro 1:15 - Roadmap: 6 Lessons That Changed My Life 2:00 - Lesson 1: Eat The Frog (Do The Hardest Thing First) 4:30 - Lesson 2: Transparency Is Everything (CEO Dashboard Framework) 7:00 - Lesson 3: Dont Do Things For Other People (Family Business Story) 9:30 - Lesson 4: Go Where There Is Growth (Why I Left Germany For Dubai) 12:00 - Lesson 5: Where Your Fear Is, There Is Your Task 14:15 - Lesson 6: Quit Alcohol (The Decision That Changed Everything) 17:00 - Summary & Next Steps --- THE SIX LESSONS: 1. EAT THE FROG - Do your hardest task first thing every morning. High performers arent sharper longer, they just know when theyre not sharp. 2. TRANSPARENCY IS EVERYTHING - You cannot run a business if your numbers are all over the place. Build a CEO dashboard. Track everything. You cannot manage what you dont measure. 3. DONT DO THINGS FOR OTHER PEOPLE - I restructured a 138-year-old brewery and made enemies doing it my way. If you try to please everyone, you please no one. 4. GO WHERE THERE IS GROWTH - Youre not stuck where you were born. I moved from Germany to Dubai because thats where the music was playing. 5. WHERE YOUR FEAR IS, THERE IS YOUR TASK - I have this written on my screen. The things you avoid are exactly what will unlock your growth. 6. QUIT ALCOHOL - Best decision of my thirties. The mental clarity is unmatched. Your brain is your most valuable asset. --- I still struggle with some of these. Recommending something is always easier than doing it yourself. Connect: linkedin.com/in/johannesgemmingen --- NEXT: Want to build dangerous confidence? Watch this video on how to stop doubting yourself and start taking action: https://youtu.be/psEutbFR94I --- entrepreneurship businesslesson https://video-meta.open.video/poster/pEDM6Bvtw23I/K6H5cxMb6y2_qJotEO.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/pEDM6Bvtw23I/1787353904/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=K6H5cxMb6y2 1293 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/this-founders-pitch-caught-my-attention-entrepreneur-medtech-startup This founders pitch caught my attention entrepreneur medtech startup Catching up with a VentureKick founder over dinner in Zurich. I am back in Europe and sharing a look at how my networking calls are going lately. This vlog follows a casual meeting with a startup founder to discuss business, growth, and what it takes to win at VentureKick. Watch the full video to see the breakdown of successful VentureKick winners. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/Upqc6fWJ72Ek/eRaPJxhqA52_gvHnUR.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/Upqc6fWJ72Ek/1787350578/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=eRaPJxhqA52 60 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/ease-system-exoskeleton-demo-at-vivatech-paris-2026 EASE System Exoskeleton Demo at Vivatech Paris 2026 See how exoskeleton technology handles a 20kg load in real-time. We test the limits of this body suit vest as the user lifts a heavy box. This demonstration provides a clear look at how tech-equipped gear handles physical movement under weight. Watch the full test to see the precision of the system. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/iFn23tq6EY1P/eBazIMMrAP2_NKTJEx.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/iFn23tq6EY1P/1787350599/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=eBazIMMrAP2 65 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/i-tested-if-swiss-startups-can-make-it-in-sf-building-a-vc-ep-17 I tested if Swiss Startups can make it in SF Building a VC Ep. 17 I got exclusive access to a private event at the Swiss Consulates residence in San Francisco, where 10 Swiss deeptech and hardware startups flew in from Switzerland to meet investors, build connections, and test themselves against Silicon Valleys standards. In this video, I sit down with three founders covering everything from flood prediction AI to logistics drones to materials analysis, and I get a rare one-on-one with the Swiss Consul General himself on why Swiss startups are born global and what they can learn from the Bay Areas 10x mindset. As a European investor who writes his own check into every deal he backs, I also share my honest take on why physical AI and hardware companies from Europe might have a bigger opportunity here than most people think. If you are curious about how European deeptech raises capital, breaks into the US market, or catches the attention of Silicon Valley VCs, subscribe because more videos are coming from this SF series. 00:00 Intro 0:53 Swiss startups arrive in SF with Swissnex and Venturelab 1:53 Marie Eve Didier of Matis 2:32 Conversation with the Consul General Jonas Brunschwig 5:32 Sunset 6:20 Jessica Droujko of Riverkin 6:56 Johannes Aicher of Avientus 7:56 Reflections as a European investor Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/RZCMJf9cE60J/nBajcwgrAy2_HcBndN.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/RZCMJf9cE60J/1787351320/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=nBajcwgrAy2 559 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/inside-europes-biggest-startup-campus-station-f-paris Inside Europes Biggest Startup Campus (Station F Paris) Subscribe and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Tour of Station F, the biggest startup campus on Earth located in the heart of Paris. See what it is like to work among a thousand startups.Station F serves as a massive hub for innovation, housing a thousand startups under one roof in Paris. This tour provides a look at the scale and environment of this famous facility, showing exactly how one of the biggest startup campus locations operates in a major city. Whether you are an entrepreneur or just curious about the tech ecosystem, this visit highlights the reality of building a business in such a concentrated space.Construction continues to surround the site, showing that even the biggest startup campus is constantly evolving. You will get a sense of the sheer size and the atmosphere of the space where thousands of founders work daily. This look at Station F offers a realistic view of the Parisian tech scene without the usual marketing gloss.Subscribe for weekly startup ecosystem breakdowns, and comment below if you want to see more tours of global innovation hubs. Tour Station F, the biggest startup campus on Earth located in the heart of Paris. See what it is like to work among a thousand startups. Station F serves as a massive hub for innovation, housing a thousand startups under one roof in Paris. This tour provides a look at the scale and environment of this famous facility, showing exactly how one of the biggest startup campus locations operates in a major city. Whether you are an entrepreneur or just curious about the tech ecosystem, this visit highlights the reality of building a business in such a concentrated space. Construction continues to surround the site, showing that even the biggest startup campus is constantly evolving. You will get a sense of the sheer size and the atmosphere of the space where thousands of founders work daily. This look at Station F offers a realistic view of the Parisian tech scene without the usual marketing gloss. Subscribe for weekly startup https://video-meta.open.video/poster/mcC6_rz6E6NJ/TlGPd3hqBj2_OxlmMB.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/mcC6_rz6E6NJ/1787352254/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=TlGPd3hqBj2 635 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/pov-youre-investing-in-startups-my-investment-process-building-a-vc-ep-19 POV: Youre Investing in Startups (my investment process) Building a VC Ep. 19 Learn about my investment process and how I evaluate potential startups for investment. From Silicon Valley back in Europe, going to meetings in Zurich and Munich. I have worked with numerous founders to help them grow their businesses. As a venture capital investor, I will walk you through my process of investing in startups, including the key factors I consider when deciding which companies to back. This is for you if youre a founder looking for tips on how to attract investors or an aspiring investor wanting to learn more about the process. With years of experience in the VC and PE industry, I have developed my very own approach to investing in startups, and Im excited to share my knowledge with you. From the initial pitch to the final investment decision, I will take you through my entire workflow, providing valuable insights and advice along the way. Whether youre based in London, Paris, Zurich, Munich, or anywhere else in the world, this video will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the investment process and what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of startup investing. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/QJaY6hDl6-FR/TRHidwhbAz2_ahiTKX.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/QJaY6hDl6-FR/1787351357/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=TRHidwhbAz2 651 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/i-went-inside-swissnex-switzerlands-secret-weapon-in-silicon-valley I Went Inside Swissnex - Switzerlands Secret Weapon in Silicon Valley Swissnex is Switzerlands innovation outpost around the world. In San Francisco, I got a rare look inside, from the pitch night to the co-working space with a view of the Bay. I spoke to some founders, the startup coordinator, and the people running the programme about what actually changes when Swiss founders spend two weeks breathing Silicon Valley air. Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/VGDAUrSkE6-a/TlHOJxNaAz2_IBTUSY.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/VGDAUrSkE6-a/1787351439/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=TlHOJxNaAz2 683 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/swiss-deep-tech-vs-silicon-valley-can-they-compete-building-a-vc-ep-18 Swiss Deep Tech vs Silicon Valley. Can They Compete? Building a VC Ep. 18 Ten of Switzerlands top deep tech startups flew to Silicon Valley to pitch real VCs in Palo Alto, and I was there to watch it happen. In this video I talk to two of the founders about what it actually feels like to pitch in the heart of the ecosystem, what feedback the investors gave them, and why thinking bigger might be the most important thing a Swiss founder can do. 00:00 Intro 1:02 Inside the Swisscom outpost 2:27 Intro to Venturelab Venture Leaders 3:29 Founder interview: Fede, TALPA (drone-based corrosion detection) 6:42 Founder interview: Marie, MATIS (multispectral imaging) 10:21 Key takeaways for European founders Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/VNqoRxyd-2wJ/nlH5JMhrAj2_PlElrk.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/VNqoRxyd-2wJ/1787351335/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=nlH5JMhrAj2 651 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/exploring-the-coolest-robots-at-vivatech-paris-2026-live Exploring the Coolest Robots at VivaTech Paris 2026 live Exploring the Coolest Robots at VivaTech Paris 2026 live https://video-meta.open.video/poster/itqA7Bbl2IKR/eZijchhGBj2_eGwhoO.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/itqA7Bbl2IKR/1787353053/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=eZijchhGBj2 903 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/2-years-difference-in-ai-means-everything-tech-ai-startup 2 years difference in AI means everything tech ai startup I examine the stark contrast between AI development in Europe and the rapid pace of innovation in Silicon Valley. This video highlights why San Francisco remains a global tech hub for artificial intelligence, showcasing its unique environment where advancements are made at an incredible speed. We explore the ai revolution and what this means for the global landscape, emphasizing the future of ai. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/ODrg-zKAxUeG/TcOzdMhqAy2_fuWCfX.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/ODrg-zKAxUeG/1787353578/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=TcOzdMhqAy2 30 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/how-waymos-self-driving-cars-are-changing-the-game-innovation-automobile How Waymos Self-Driving Cars Are Changing the Game innovation automobile Anyone who hasnt taken a Waymo yet is living in the past. The future is already here, its just not arrived everywhere yet. Observing the debate of lidar vs. camera from Europe shows that innovation takes different paths and cannot be mandated. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/lzz22BblwUUH/SsO5d3hXB52_nKaTwD.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/lzz22BblwUUH/1787353579/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=SsO5d3hXB52 37 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-neighborhood-billionaires-compete-for-startup-sf-venture The Neighborhood Billionaires Compete For startup sf venture Join me on a walking tour through the heart of San Francisco, where venture capital deals and startup funding are a daily occurrence. Well explore the vibrant Silicon Valley ecosystem and discuss the nuances of raising funding for entrepreneurs. Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/k7fEJnbtFIvd/msi5IMhH642_MpaUfe.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/k7fEJnbtFIvd/1787354307/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=msi5IMhH642 41 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/where-silicon-valleys-biggest-deals-actually-happen-venturecapital-sanfrancisco-startup Where Silicon Valleys Biggest Deals Actually Happen VentureCapital SanFrancisco Startup I walked through a unique street in San Francisco, where top firms like Lightspeed and Accel converge, and a single coffee shop serves as a hub for deals. I sat down with Gabriel Jarrosson of Lobster Capital to discuss what makes this part of Silicon Valley so distinct and how European founders and investors can apply these insights to their own startup ecosystem. We explored the nuances of venture capital and entrepreneurship in this vibrant environment, offering valuable takeaways for anyone interested in investment and startup funding. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/l_rQNnek_YwG/mcOzc2NX6O2_QTYbxY.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/l_rQNnek_YwG/1787354300/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mcOzc2NX6O2 43 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/you-wont-believe-how-packed-sfs-startup-district-actually-is-tech-startup-sanfrancisco You Wont Believe How Packed SFs Startup District Actually Is tech startup sanfrancisco I walked the one street in San Francisco where most deals get made, a true financial district and tech hub. In this video, I sit down with Gabriel Jarrosson of Lobster Capital to find out what makes this place so different, offering business tips for European founders and investors. We discuss venture capital and entrepreneurship in the heart of Silicon Valley. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/ovyEVFfJ2Qna/ScjOJxgH7O2_DFsity.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/ovyEVFfJ2Qna/1787354310/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=ScjOJxgH7O2 42 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/this-is-why-founders-choose-the-bay-area-startup-venturecapital-tech This is Why Founders Choose the Bay Area startup venturecapital tech I walked the one street in San Francisco where Lightspeed, Accel, and Founders Circle Capital etc. are all within 50 meters of each other, and a single coffee shop is where most deals get made. In this video I sit down with Gabriel Jarrosson of Lobster Capital to find out what makes this place so different for investors and what European founders can learn about startup funding. We discuss the unique ecosystem of venture capital and the role of angel investors in supporting a startup company in this vibrant area, including insights from Palo Alto. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/jfq-YBv7-YSR/nIOjI2MGBO2_bujMAs.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/jfq-YBv7-YSR/1787354385/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=nIOjI2MGBO2 46 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/moving-to-sf-rewired-my-entire-investing-brain-startup-mindset-sanfrancisco Moving to SF rewired my entire investing brain startup mindset sanfrancisco Join me as I sit down with Gabriel Jarrosson of Lobster Capital to discuss the unique investment landscape of Silicon Valley, where the pursuit of significant exits is common. We explore how this environment shapes investment perspectives and the potential for wealth building. This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone interested in investing and understanding the dynamics of venture capital. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/TvuU_zqJFQMc/ncjyJ2hGBO2_Wtjcsu.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/TvuU_zqJFQMc/1787354390/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=ncjyJ2hGBO2 51 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/why-is-europe-behind-on-self-driving-cars Why is Europe Behind on Self-Driving Cars? Why is Europe Behind on Self-Driving Cars? https://video-meta.open.video/poster/RbyA_Du77QKd/TtjyIgga6O2_QUynXW.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/RbyA_Du77QKd/1787354390/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=TtjyIgga6O2 63 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/san-franciscos-self-driving-cars-waymo-everywhere San Franciscos Self-Driving Cars: Waymo Everywhere! San Franciscos Self-Driving Cars: Waymo Everywhere! https://video-meta.open.video/poster/idDoVnDd_UKJ/flOzIgMq642_RKduEX.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/idDoVnDd_UKJ/1787355575/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=flOzIgMq642 72 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/waymo-vs-tesla-the-self-driving-tech-showdown Waymo vs. Tesla: The Self-Driving Tech Showdown! Waymo vs. Tesla: The Self-Driving Tech Showdown! https://video-meta.open.video/poster/TamEMBjA6M8i/mRPiIMNGAz2_RdHcUD.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/TamEMBjA6M8i/1787355591/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mRPiIMNGAz2 99 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/waymo-took-over-san-francisco-europe-has-no-idea-building-a-vc-ep-16 Waymo Took Over San Francisco (Europe Has No Idea) Building a VC Ep. 16 Subscribe and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ I took a Waymo taxi, its an AI powered autonomous vehicle through San Francisco and its hard to overstate how normal this has become here. I also get into the lidar vs. camera debate and what I think it means for where autonomous driving is actually heading. What we cover: First impressions inside the Waymo Why SF is ground zero for autonomous vehicles Lidar vs. camera: which tech wins? Spotting the new Tesla Robotaxi What Europe is missing and why it matters Special thanks to my friend Musab, check out this: https://x.com/MozeTech Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/j1DsZFCA7Mod/n7OyJ3gr6j2_lYhoOY.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/j1DsZFCA7Mod/1787355633/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=n7OyJ3gr6j2 314 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-street-in-san-francisco-where-billion-dollar-deals-happen The Street in San Francisco Where Billion Dollar Deals Happen I walked the one street in San Francisco where Lightspeed, Accel, and Founders Circle Capital etc. are all within 50 meters of each other, and a single coffee shop is where most deals get made. In this video I sit down with Gabriel Jarrosson of Lobster Capital to find out what makes this place so different, and what European founders and investors can actually take home. Check out Gabriels Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lobstercap/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:21 The street where it all happens 01:27 Who is Gabriel Jarrosson? 02:58 Inside Blue Bottle, the VC coffee shop 03:31 Why Gabriel moved from Europe to San Francisco 05:57 AI in SF vs AI in Europe 07:30 A billion dollars is small here 09:12 Live serendipity moment 09:49 What to bring back to Europe Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/4vbAZbmI_Y9c/LdaXRMgX642_tXZtFh.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/4vbAZbmI_Y9c/1787361132/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=LdaXRMgX642 646 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/inside-mbc-biolabs-is-this-why-founders-should-move-to-san-francisco Inside MBC Biolabs: Is THIS Why Founders Should Move to San Francisco? European VC Investor tours key spot for any tech founder: a cutting-edge biotech lab. A San Francisco hub for science and research. We explore what this facility offers founders and startups who can use their advanced laboratory equipment. This space is truly making an impact on scientific advancements in the Bay Area. Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/jUqI6l87Y6fH/LdbWlwgX7P2_yCnbmh.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/jUqI6l87Y6fH/1787357038/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=LdbWlwgX7P2 642 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/private-equity-vs-venture-capital-vs-angel-investing-whats-the-difference Private Equity vs. Venture Capital vs. Angel Investing (Whats the Difference?) Subscribe and become part of the inner circle https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Private equity, venture capital, angel investing. Most people confuse them or pick the wrong one for their situation. I break down what each model actually optimizes for, where each one falls short, and why I built my firm around a fourth model that most people have never heard of. CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 0:53 Venture Capital 3:30 Angel Investing 5:55 Private Equity 7:17 The Comparison 8:53 The Fourth Way Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Disclaimer: This video, recorded content, and accompanying materials are provided strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nothing discussed during this sessio, or accessed through this content and materials, should be interpreted as financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. We are not financial advisors, and the ideas and opinions presented are not personalised recommendations for any individual. For specific questions or concerns regarding your financial, legal or tax situatio, please consult with a qualified professional. The information provided is general in nature and may not apply to your specific circumstances. Always conduct your own research and due diligence, and see professional advice before making any investment, financial, legal or tax decisions. Please note that participants on this call, or thos accessint this content and materials, may express their own views, opinions, or recommendations. These are solely those of the participants and do not represent the views of the company. The company does not endorse, approve, or validate any statements made by participants. The company expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for any investment decisions or actions taken based on information or suggestions prov https://video-meta.open.video/poster/UQCwQj4R3YNJ/fJHqQMNX6P2_wJuSXQ.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/UQCwQj4R3YNJ/1787357023/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=fJHqQMNX6P2 747 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/why-100m-vc-funds-only-invest-80m-the-fee-structure-exposed Why 100M VC Funds Only Invest 80M (The Fee Structure Exposed) Understanding the 2 and 20 model is critical if youre raising capital. Heres exactly what your investors take, when they take it, and why it matters for your startup. Most founders dont realize that when a VC fund raises 100 million, only 80 million actually gets invested. The rest disappears in fees before a single cheque is written. This shapes everything about how your investors behave... from which companies they back to how aggressively they push for exits. In this video, I break down the complete fee structure used by venture capital and private equity funds, including the deal-by-deal alternative that my firm uses for superior alignment. What youll learn: The 400-year origin story of carried interest (it started with ship captains) Why your 100M fund only has 75-80M to actually invest How the four-tier waterfall distribution works in practice European vs American waterfall structures and which protects founders Why VCs need 10x returns just to hit their hurdle rates The deal-by-deal alternative and why alignment is better How to predict investor behaviour based on fee structures Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 1:01 - Roadmap 1:56 - The Origin Story 4:18 - The Management Fee 8:17 - The Carried Interest 13:17 - The Alternative Model I spent four years in private equity in London before building my own investment and advisory firm. Ive seen firsthand how fee structures shape investor decisions. This video gives you the insider perspective on fund economics that most founders never learn until after theyve signed the term sheet (if ever). Whether youre raising your seed round, negotiating a Series A, or just trying to understand how venture capital works, understanding the 2 and 20 model helps you choose better capital partners and predict how theyll behave when things get difficult. Related videos you should watch next: The 7 Fundamental Differences Between PE and VC: https://youtu.be/euWGlS8am3k How to Command a Room in VC Meetings: https://youtu.be/5uCXt4ktVZc How to Build a Pitch Deck That Gets Funded: https://yo https://video-meta.open.video/poster/4xbUVvrs7M0G/mtaHlhNX7i2_BaQFWe.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/4xbUVvrs7M0G/1787357856/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mtaHlhNX7i2 1126 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-vc-model-nobodys-talking-about-building-a-vc-ep-12 The VC Model Nobodys Talking About Building a VC Ep. 12 After 10 months in stealth, Auctora Partners is officially live. This is a new way of investing in private markets. Todays portfolio construction benefits from venture capital exposure. In this video I walk you through what weve been building: a deal-by-deal syndication model where we commit our own capital to every investment first, then open the deal to co-investors on identical terms. No blind pool. No 10-year lockups. No minimum fund commitment. Why deal-by-deal beats the traditional fund model for most investors. How the Auctora model works (and why alignment is the whole point). What 10 months in stealth actually produced. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/7DjM3fGRt29a/S6HqRhgXBi2_dnQHzl.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/7DjM3fGRt29a/1787359195/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=S6HqRhgXBi2 540 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/chasing-deals-at-web-summit-qatar-building-a-vc-ep-11 Chasing Deals at Web Summit Qatar Building a VC Ep. 11 Taking you behind the scenes at WebSummit Qatar 2026. One of the worlds biggest technology conferences. This is where startup funding happens, and Im here hunting for the next big opportunity. Im meeting founders, evaluating startups, and showing you exactly what I look for before investing a single dollar. From the exhibition floor to private dinners where real deals happen, youre getting the full experience. MY MISSIONS AT WEB SUMMIT: Expand my network through serendipitous meetings Meet interesting founders to track for future investments Find experienced deeptech investors for my portfolio companys fundraise Explore whats happening in the Middle East tech ecosystem COMPANIES & PEOPLE MENTIONED: VuseXR (Germany) - VR/AR training platform for industrial companies Steven Bartlett (Diary of a CEO) Abdul Majid (Smashi Business) This is what dealmaking actually looks like... unglamorous meetings, exhausting days, and building relationships that turn into investments months or years later. WebSummit WebSummitQatar StartupInvesting VentureCapital Doha TechConference FounderMeetings DeepTech InvestorVlog Networking DealFlow StartupPitches Qatar DubaiEntrepreneur WebSummitQatar Doha Startup Investing Technology https://video-meta.open.video/poster/Dwik6rDA7Ync/m6bGk2NHAz2_EMSctJ.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/Dwik6rDA7Ync/1787359984/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=m6bGk2NHAz2 457 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/why-companies-are-staying-private-longer-and-how-to-react Why Companies Are Staying Private Longer (and how to react) Public Markets are not what they used to be, so companies choose to stay private, venture capital funds acting more like private equity. In this video, I break down: Why companies like SpaceX, Stripe, and other unicorns stay private for decades The market forces that made this shift inevitable How sophisticated investors can access private market deals (even with smaller check sizes) The emerging secondary markets that could unlock liquidity before IPO Why public markets still matter and when the IPO window will reopen 0:00 Intro 1:33 Breakdown 1:54 How Venture Capital is a Unique Asset Class 3:23 What is keeping companies private today? 5:10 New tool emerging to make private markets more accessible and liquid 8:06 The eventual return of the IPO? 10:00 Who Private Market Investing is for MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO: SpaceX and XAI merger Tiger Global, SoftBank, Crossover Funds LEVA investment platform Web Summit panel insights This video is for sophisticated investors looking to understand how private markets are democratising access to the worlds fastest-growing companies, without waiting for an IPO that may never come. PrivateMarkets SpaceX VentureCapital StartupInvesting IPO WealthCreation InvestmentStrategy PrivateEquity SecondaryMarkets UnicornCompanies InvestingTips2025 DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. Private market investments carry significant risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Always conduct your own due diligence and consult with qualified financial advisors before making investment decisions. Music ID: MB01EKLGXQXND5G https://video-meta.open.video/poster/FruIMhyt62Ma/m6bblxNWBi2_KUhaZA.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/FruIMhyt62Ma/1787360087/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=m6bblxNWBi2 679 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/financial-analyst-explains-convertible-loan-notes-vc-funding Financial Analyst Explains Convertible Loan Notes (VC funding) Before signing convertible notes founders should understand what theyre actually agreeing to. Thats what were discussing here. Youll learn: - Why convertible notes exist - The 9 terms that determine your dilution - How valuation cap vs discount rate actually works - When the cap applies (and when it doesnt) - Founder-friendly vs investor-friendly terms for each component - Live conversion calculation with real numbers DOWNLOAD THE FREE EXCEL MODEL in the pinned comment below. If youre raising seed capital or investing at early stage, this is required knowledge. Download the model, play with the numbers, understand what youre signing. As a venture capital investor, I often encounter convertible notes. This explainer video breaks down the most common terms youll find in these instruments, detailing nine frequently used clauses. Understanding these aspects is crucial for startup funding and navigating the world of investing. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/AbuMYt8AA6La/mAaalxhr6i2_HCwUkz.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/AbuMYt8AA6La/1787360095/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mAaalxhr6i2 708 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/safe-vs-convertible-loan-the-key-differences SAFE vs. Convertible Loan: The Key Differences I break down the real differences between SAFEs and Convertible Loan Notes, why each exists, and which one you should actually use as a founder or investor. In my last video, I explained CLN terms and conversion mechanics. This video answers the follow-up question: Why would anyone use a SAFE instead? This video breaks down the critical differences between a SAFE agreement and convertible notes, particularly focusing on their implications for startup dilution and overall business finance. Understanding these distinctions is essential for both founders and investors navigating the complexities of raising capital. We explore why each instrument exists and how they impact the financial future of early-stage companies. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/ysikRvzl6IKd/SBaqQghq6y2_iooVJS.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/ysikRvzl6IKd/1787359914/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=SBaqQghq6y2 751 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/web-summit-qatar-strategy-founder-vs-investor-approach Web Summit Qatar Strategy Founder vs Investor Approach Heading to Web Summit Qatar next week, your preparation looks completely different depending on whether youre there as a founder or an investor. Most founders treat conferences like learning opportunities - blocking out panels, soaking up atmosphere. Thats a mistake. Your job isnt to attend, its to create velocity in your fundraising or business development. In this video, I break down: The 3 things founders must prepare before arriving Why scheduled meetings only matter if you follow a specific system The side event circuit (where real deals actually happen) What Im actually doing at Web Summit as an investor The one follow-up template that actually gets responses Whether youre going to Web Summit, All-in Summit, Slush, TechCrunch Disrupt, or any major conference, this applies. Are you a founder heading to Web Summit Qatar? Youve already lost if youre just planning to attend panel sessions. This video provides essential strategies for startups, focusing on how to network at a conference effectively and what truly matters for your business velocity. As an investor, I approach technology conferences differently, and Ill share my insights on investing wisely and building valuable connections. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/7baYJxms7YSi/SBaGkxNb6z2_lPkipa.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/7baYJxms7YSi/1787359972/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=SBaGkxNb6z2 717 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-pe-due-diligence-trap-most-founders-fall-into The PE Due Diligence Trap Most Founders Fall Into Most business owners preparing for private equity focus on the wrong things. After spending 4 years in PE and selling 5 businesses in my familys conglomerate, Ive learned what actually matters. In this video, I break down the PE playbook: Why PE evaluates differently from VC The 3 pillars of your equity story How to eliminate risk before due diligence Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:50 - The Three Checkpoints 1:35 - Checkpoint 1: The PE Mindset 5:30 - Checkpoint 2: Your Equity Story 10:00 - Checkpoint 3: Transparency & Predictability 14:00 - Whats Next It doesnt matter what company you are building, one day it should be ready for private equity. Even if youre not planning on selling your business, theres a lot we can learn from PE professionals about how to run an efficient operation and how to sell a business. This video explains how companies can prepare for private equity evaluation, detailing what PE firms look for, and how to position a business effectively by focusing on corporate finance and business valuation. Understanding operational efficiency is key to attracting investors and ensuring long-term success. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/AsmI_fTc-UKO/mBHbkMgr7y2_uwWYpP.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/AsmI_fTc-UKO/1787360033/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=mBHbkMgr7y2 727 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/where-my-venture-capital-deal-flow-actually-comes-from-building-a-vc-ep-15 Where My Venture Capital Deal Flow Actually Comes From Building a VC Ep. 15 Subscribe and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ I spent a full day at START Summit in Switzerland tracking down founders, reconnecting with investors, and learning firsthand how deal flow actually works in venture capital. In this video I walk you through the three avenues I actively pursue to get reliable access to high quality opportunities, from sitting on the Venture Kick jury to building relationships with co-investors and showing up to the right rooms. CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 1:47 Avenue 1: Joining accelerator juries like Venture Kick 3:15 Meeting Sabatron at the startup booths 3:46 Interview with Céline Neuenschwander of Venture Kick 6:54 Avenue 2: Building relationships with other investors 8:15 Interview with Philipp Reichle of Summiteer 10:03 Avenue 3: Conferences and in-person networking 11:17 Interview with Patrick Burkert of Campus Founders 14:12 Pipeline doesnt wait for closes Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/E5v22vTAF-eH/LtPaR3grAi2_gymjtz.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/E5v22vTAF-eH/1787360649/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=LtPaR3grAi2 899 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/every-investors-view-of-companies-explained-in-detail Every Investors View of Companies Explained in Detail Subscribe and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Every investor looks at a company and sees something completely different. In this video I break down how VCs, angels, PE firms, hedge funds, family offices, sovereign wealth funds, and more actually evaluate companies, and why it matters whether youre raising capital or deploying it. CHAPTERS 0:00 Venture Capital 1:25 Angel Investor 2:32 Corporate Venture Capital 3:44 Deal-by-Deal Syndicate 5:20 Growth Equity 6:27 Private Equity 7:38 Hedge Fund 8:46 Family Office 10:06 Sovereign Wealth Fund 11:13 Search Fund Im Johannes Gemmingen. Im a co-founder and managing partner at Auctora Partners, where we invest in relentless founders building category defining businesses. Its not a fund, we invest deal-by-deal. Subscribe to the newsletter and become part of the inner circle: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ https://video-meta.open.video/poster/yQrU-b8sA6UH/LZPbRMhrAi2_ijnqUn.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/yQrU-b8sA6UH/1787360631/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=LZPbRMhrAi2 790 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/i-judged-5-startup-pitches-and-only-3-got-funded-building-a-vc-ep-14 I Judged 5 Startup Pitches and Only 3 Got Funded Building a VC Ep. 14 What does it actually take to win CHF 40,000 at one of Europes top startup accelerators? I spent a full day on the Venture Kick Stage 2 jury of investors, evaluating 5 startups across 15-minute pitches and 15-minute Q&A sessions. Three walk away with 40,000 Swiss Francs of startup funding. Two go home empty-handed. In this video I break down: How Venture Kick works (Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 1M+) The framework used to evaluate early-stage startups What separated the winners from the rest What founders get wrong in live pitch sessions Why the Q&A matters more than the pitch itself I cant name the companies, but I share everything I observed: product demos, co-founder dynamics, presentation structure, and what the jury was really looking for. If youre a founder going through Venture Kick, an investor trying to understand Swiss deeptech deal flow, or a finance professional curious about how early-stage investment decisions actually get made, this one is for you. Want inside access to the deals I actually pursue? Join my newsletter: https://deal-by-deal.beehiiv.com/ Watch my full Venture Kick explainer: https://youtu.be/6CxGpOzN9FM?si=Rh3YbmNVXAzOuf Chapters: 0:00 intro 0:45 How Venture Kick Works 2:27 The Judging Framework 4:58 Pitch 1: AI Tool 6:08 Pitch 2: Construction Tech 7:32 Pitch 3: Rescue Device 9:10 Pitch 4: Biotech 10:23 Pitch 5: Finance AI 10:46 The Vote 11:17 Who Won VentureKick StartupFunding DeepTech SwissStartups AngelInvesting VentureCapital StartupPitch EarlyStageInvesting https://video-meta.open.video/poster/FPrM7vOA6YKQ/fdiaQxhXAi2_bukyKo.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/FPrM7vOA6YKQ/1787360646/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=fdiaQxhXAi2 773 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-many-levels-of-investing-in-startups-building-a-vc-ep-13 The Many Levels of Investing in Startups Building a VC Ep. 13 In this video, I explain why Im investing deal-by-deal instead of raising a traditional VC fund, and how this model can benefit both startup founders and investors. I break down how SPVs (special purpose vehicles) work, why they simplify startup cap tables, and why a deal-by-deal investment strategy can be more flexible than the classic venture capital model. I also walk through a live deep tech investment opportunity: Gapfruit, a Swiss startup building a secure operating system for connected devices in the growing IoT connected devices space. Topics in this video: Venture capital vs deal-by-deal investing How startup SPVs work Angel investing and co-investing Startup deal flow and sourcing investments Deep tech startups and IoT security Subscribe for more videos about venture capital, angel investing, startups, and building a VC firm. Disclaimer: This video, recorded content, and accompanying materials are provided strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nothing discussed during this sessio, or accessed through this content and materials, should be interpreted as financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. We are not financial advisors, and the ideas and opinions presented are not personalised recommendations for any individual. For specific questions or concerns regarding your financial, legal or tax situatio, please consult with a qualified professional. The information provided is general in nature and may not apply to your specific circumstances. Always conduct your own research and due diligence, and see professional advice before making any investment, financial, legal or tax decisions. Please note that participants on this call, or thos accessint this content and materials, may express their own views, opinions, or recommendations. These are solely those of the participants and do not represent the views of the company. The company does not endorse, approve, or validate any statements made by participants. The company expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for any investment dec https://video-meta.open.video/poster/ygqg3xDIx6mJ/fJPWRgMHAi2_AWTkBj.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/ygqg3xDIx6mJ/1787360755/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=fJPWRgMHAi2 774 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-fatal-mistake-most-founders-make-at-fundraising-stage The Fatal Mistake Most Founders Make at Fundraising Stage Deciding between an Angel Investor vs Venture Capital is critical for your startups survival. In this video, I break down the 5 structural differences that determine whether you keep control of your company or get fired by your own board. Many founders think money is just money, but the source of your capital dictates your timeline, your exit strategy, and your control. Im revealing the honest truth about the different games Angels and VCs are playing so you dont make a fatal mistake at the fundraising stage. 0:00 - The Stakes: Control, Timeline & Survival 1:35 - 1. Money Source (Why it changes behavior) 3:50 - 2. Return Models (Math: 20x vs Fund Returners) 6:15 - 3. Control Dynamics (Who can fire you?) 8:40 - 4. Time Horizons (Patient vs Impatient Capital) 10:50 - 5. Stage Mismatch (When to pitch whom) 13:15 - How to Bridge to the Next Stage AngelInvestor VentureCapital StartupFunding JohannesGemmingen This video clarifies the roles of angel investors and venture capitalists, which is crucial for founders to understand for effective startup funding. We break down investment thresholds for pre-seed, seed funding, Series A funding, and Series B funding rounds, explaining the criteria needed for each stage. Learn the differences between angel-led and venture capital-led investments and how to approach each for your startup. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/-nCUJx4QwU1c/KdOaQMgWBP2_uqhGxT.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/-nCUJx4QwU1c/1787361390/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=KdOaQMgWBP2 911 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/the-expat-life-taught-me-this-about-2026 The Expat Life Taught Me This About 2026 Join me on a journey around Lake Davos as I share an end of year reflection on 2025, detailing my experience with expat life in Dubai during winter and my summer travels. This travel vlog covers settling into a new lifestyle and the personal growth that comes from taking risks, especially when young. https://video-meta.open.video/poster/7OnYVdTJ7Ugk/KdiqR3MHA42_FuDiGL.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/7OnYVdTJ7Ugk/1787361743/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=KdiqR3MHA42 1077 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/financial-analyst-settles-rent-vs-buy-debate-with-excel-model-download-available Financial Analyst Settles Rent vs Buy Debate With Excel Model (download available) Should you buy a home or keep renting? I get this question all the time. After years in private equity building financial models for a living, I finally decided to build the definitive Excel model to compare buying vs. renting. And the results genuinely surprised me. In this video, I walk you step-by-step through the exact model I built the same one you can download using the link below, so you can plug in your own numbers and see what the math says for your situation. Well look at home appreciation, mortgage payments, maintenance, rent increases, market returns, and the long-term effects of compound interest. But numbers never tell the full story. There are qualitative factors no spreadsheet can capture: the ability to renovate without permission, the emotional security of owning your space, the discipline forced by a mortgage, or the flexibility you keep by renting and investing the difference. I break down both sides: the hard financial logic and the human realities that ultimately drive this decision. By the end of this video, youll understand: How to model the buy vs. rent decision like an investor Why renting often wins financially, and when it doesnt The hidden costs of owning a home most people ignore How compound interest changes everything over 20, 30, 50 years The emotional and lifestyle factors that matter just as much as the math If youre in your 20s or 30s trying to figure out not just whether to buy, but where to live long-term, and other things, watch this next: https://youtu.be/lU4bIrYkNEY https://video-meta.open.video/poster/CjCEZb8Zx-9P/eZObkMNHB42_TxDPil.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/CjCEZb8Zx-9P/1787361380/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=eZObkMNHB42 853 https://open.video/@johannesgemmingen/v/how-to-build-a-pitch-deck-that-gets-funded How to Build a Pitch Deck That Gets Funded As a venture capital investor, I can quickly assess a founders understanding of top-down communication from their startup pitch. This video will show you how to craft a compelling startup pitch and keep investors engaged from the start. Learn the secrets to effective business communication and presentation skills that make your pitch stand out. After reviewing hundreds of startup decks as a VC, I can tell within 30 seconds whether a founder understands top-down communication. In this video, I break down: What top-down communication really is Its simple: lead with the conclusion. Then support it with evidence. VCs dont connect the dots: you must connect the dots for them. A real example: A terrible pitch deck (NeuroHeal) VS. the GOOD version of the deck I walk you through how to turn the same company into a clear, compelling, investor-ready pitch using top-down structure: Human, emotional intro Clear problem & solution Simple language Traction upfront Your homework Read your slide titles only. If someone cant understand your entire business from just the titles you have a bottom-up deck. Rewrite every headline as a conclusion. Want feedback on your pitch deck? Comment below with your industry + stage. Ill pick a few decks to break down in an upcoming video. Watch next: How to Command a Room as a Founder https://youtu.be/5uCXt4ktVZc?si=A1kRFQBh7zKhYnmf https://video-meta.open.video/poster/86igIrzQZ6uj/edjaQNhXA42_fBUxhR.jpg https://streaming.open.video/contents/86igIrzQZ6uj/1787361477/index.m3u8 https://open.video/embed?contentId=edjaQNhXA42 913