Kjartan Rist
I believe that an activist approach to venture investing is the best way to build a strong portfolio and deliver outsized returns. That means I actively support all our portfolio companies throughout their life cycle, don't mind getting my hands dirty, and get involved wherever I can be useful.
Europe
Software,
Startups,
Technology,
Venture capital
Venture capital investing
Founding Partner of Concentric, Kjartan has spent his last 20+ years focusing on the technology sector as a founder, Board member and investor. Through his international profile and network, he works closely with portfolio companies to support development and accelerate growth.
Prior to setting up Concentric, Kjartan co-founded the venture capital fund DN Capital and the merchant bank Korral Partners. In his career to date, he has been instrumental in 100+ transactions as the Principal Investor. Notable exits and companies include Shazam (Apple), toptable (Booking.com), Endeca (Oracle), Frontier Car Group (Naspers), Griffeye (Thoma Bravo) and BVNK.
Kjartan graduated from the University of Bath with an MBA from Imperial College London. Kjartan is a regular writer for Forbes Magazine and a Trustee and Board member of the global charity Right to Play.
Insights Kjartan Rist has written
Venture Capital: A long-term game for patient investors
Venture CapitalFamily offices are increasingly attracted to venture capital due to the promise of high returns, innovation and diversification. Unlike traditional asset classes, VC offers an opportunity to support and benefit from the growth of early-stage companies, often in disruptive fields. According to InvestEurope, European venture funds have consistently delivered over 20% annual returns over the […]
Navigating venture capital communication with family offices
Venture CapitalLearn how to navigate venture capital communication with family offices to build successful, long-term partnerships. In this insight, Kjartan Rist provides actionable guidelines for effectively collaborating with family offices in the venture capital landscape, driving impactful investments and innovation.
Across generations: The family office attitude to venture capital
Venture CapitalDiscover how family offices are shifting from traditional wealth preservation to venture capital investments, driven by generational differences and a growing focus on sustainability and impact investing with Simple Expert Kjartan Rist.
Are family offices really competitors to venture capital firms?
InvestmentsIn this insight, Simple Expert Kjartan Risk explains that family offices and venture capital (VC) firms are not competitors but potential partners. Kjartan emphasises that family offices can benefit from VC expertise and networks, enhancing their investment strategies and contributing to societal advancements. By recognising their complementary strengths, family offices and VC firms can achieve synergistic growth and success in the venture investment landscape.
The shift from direct investments to partner funds
Venture CapitalIn this article, Simple Expert, Kjartan Rist explains why family offices are moving away from direct investments to partner funds when participating in venture capital.
Family offices: The innovation challenge
InnovationThe intersection of family offices and innovation is both complex and crucial, framing a narrative of potential, challenges, and societal impact. Simple Expert Kjartan Rist explores the growing influence of family offices in the global market and their potential to shape the future of innovation across various industries.
How family offices can access AI through venture capital
Venture CapitalSimple Expert Kjartan Rist discusses how family offices can leverage venture capital to position themselves at the forefront of the AI revolution.
A synergistic future for family offices and venture capital
Venture CapitalThe investment landscape has changed due to the global economic downturn and evolving market dynamics, particularly in the way family offices and venture capital sectors interact. Simple expert, Kjartan Rist, shares his insights on the synergies between these two worlds.
Why should venture capital be at the heart of family office impact strategies
Venture CapitalImpact investing is a top priority for family offices, yet defining an approach that will ‘do good’ and drive returns is fraught with challenges. However, if you’re committed to venture investing, there’s a strong argument you’re already making an impact in several ways.