The Mercury CXO Summit in Austin is the largest gathering of software ecosystem participants in the Midcontinent and featured expert panels and next-level conversations. These conversations explored the full spectrum of growth stage capital, from sourcing venture capital and private equity to strategic exits. In this highlight reel episode, we kick things off with the Private Equity Panel, diving deep into how PE firms approach founder led businesses. Then, we move into the Growth Venture Panel, where seasoned investors share insights into what it takes to raise capital at the growth stage. Finally, we wrap with the M&A Path to Liquidity Fireside Chat, a candid discussion about navigating the acquisition process. If you’re a founder or growth executive thinking about the next capital raise or your exit, this episode is a must listen.
Timecoded Guide:
- [00:00] Podcast begins
- [02:59] Private Equity Panel: A sharper perspective on how to win in the PE sponsor market
- [21:44] Sophisticated Storytelling to Private Equity Firms: Where expectations meet reality
- [35:41] Growth Venture Panel: Align with investor expectations for rare IPO opportunities
- [55:45] How Gen AI Changes Valuations: Navigating a new world of tech investments
- [1:07:22] M&A Path to Liquidity: Planning tools to control your company’s future
- [1:22:53] Finding Your Financial Fit: Advice for navigating the acquisition process
Key Takeaways:
Private Equity Panel: In a market where uncertainty is the new constant, private equity buyers are rewriting the playbook for what makes a company valuable. This Private Equity Panel, led by Aziz Gilani of Mercury and featuring Ramesh Venugopal from Riverwood Capital and Mike McMullan from Vista Equity Partners, unpacks how shifting revenue multiples and the rise of AI narratives are reshaping the path to a successful PE-led buyout.
Growth Venture Panel: As the venture markets reset, founders face new rules for securing growth capital. The Growth Venture Panel, hosted by Samantha Lewis of Mercury in discussion with Karen Page of B Capital and Roberto Avila of Sageview Capital, dives into how Growth VCs are underwriting deals during the Age of AI and how AI adoption is reshaping valuation and exit expectations. Additionally, Karen and Roberto give their professional opinions on what sets standout companies apart and how the best are preparing for faster-moving markets.
The M&A Path to Liquidity: In today’s volatile capital markets environment, the M&A process requires more than just good timing—it demands precision, preparation, and perspective. Blair Garrou, Managing Partner at Mercury, leads this Fireside Chat with Pooyan Mehdizadeh and Will Cass from Needham & Company as they unpack why some venture-backed companies break through uncertainty while others stall, how shifts in buyer behavior are reshaping deals, and what it takes to stand out in a crowded field. From navigating AI disruption to sharpening transaction strategy, Will and Pooyan offer guidance for founders on creating a successful exit.
