Biggest turn off in a pitch deck is when a founder has a “exit strategy” slide. Most investors aren't looking to invest in quick exits—because that doesn't exist. They want to invest in $100B+ outcomes that change the world.
Grace Young
9mo
Hmmmm. I think that is one type of investor with a particular investment thesis, but I know other investors who are the opposite (turned off when the exit isn’t clear).
Philippe V.
9mo
Agree an exit strategy slide for early stage investment is nonsensical: hard to fathom the future and probably no better than sticking your finger in the air. But don’t agree that “most investors want to invest in 100B outcomes that change the world”. They all want that but would be happy and expect a decent return.
Christine Kiefer
9mo
Disagree! Most investors aren’t looking to invest in Q U I C K exits - but they’re still looking to exit, and want to know your plans for it
Elvis Malkic
9mo
I usually agree to most of your posts, but not having a clear vision where you are going is a turn off for smaller to mid level investors. Having a slide with options how you can exit is beneficial for them to understand how you are going to make them money which gives them some security that you are thinking ahead.
Steve Johnson
9mo
Interesting viewpoint as well as those in comments. I think age may have something to do with it too. An investor or founder who’s older is perhaps more likely to focus on the exit than younger counterparts. Unsure of the tipping point, but would guess around the 50 mark. ;0)
Adam Jarmicki
9mo
I like exit strategies…
Leveraged Finance | Writing about technology, startups, finance, VC and investments
9moLuka Ivicevic on what are you basing your conclusion? Currently one of the biggest issues with venture in Europe is lack of actual returns to LPs (DPI). Based on that premise, it seems that a significant portion of VC time should be spent contemplating exits within a required timeframe (and more so on potential acquirers as IPO market is less often a viable exit route).