Value
Value Talks: Inbar Steiner hosts Ronny Zakay for a Conversation on Secondary Strategies

Value Talks: Inbar Steiner hosts Ronny Zakay for a Conversation on Secondary Strategies

6 March 2025

Podcast Summary


In this episode, we host Ronny Zakay from Migdal for an in-depth exploration of the secondary market, one of the fastest-growing sectors in private equity. The discussion highlights how this market evolved from the need for liquidity within long-term investments, enabling investors to buy or sell existing stakes in funds and companies – often at a significant discount. The episode focuses on the two primary transaction types, LP-led and GP-led, explaining the differences between them and the dynamics that have fueled sharp market growth in recent years, particularly following interest rate hikes and a slowdown in exits. The conversation also covers the importance of accurate pricing and manager selection, given the inherent complexity and dispersion between funds. We also examine the advantages of secondary investments, such as broad diversification, shorter investment duration, and exposure to more mature assets, alongside the risks and challenges involved, including manager dependency and the use of leverage. Finally, the episode touches upon the expansion of the secondary market into other areas such as debt and infrastructure, and its increasing role in the portfolios of institutional and qualified investors.

Watch the Full Podcast

Where is the “Big Money” going? Institutional perspectives on alternative investments. Inbar Steiner hosts Ronny Zakay, Head of Alternative Investments at Migdal, for a discussion on secondary strategies in the world of alternatives – exploring the challenges, opportunities, and the avenues that are becoming increasingly attractive in today’s market.

Key Takeaways:

1

The Secondary Market Emerged from a Need for Liquidity

Private equity investments are long-term by nature; the secondary market has therefore evolved to allow investors to exit positions before the end of the fund’s life.

2

Two Primary Transaction Types: LP vs. GP

LP-led transactions involve the sale of stakes by existing investors, while GP-led transactions involve the sale of assets by the fund manager while retaining management. Each carries distinct dynamics and risk profiles.

3

Market Conditions Have Driven a Secondary Boom

Rising interest rates, a cooling exit environment, and liquidity constraints have led to a sharp increase in transaction volume and opportunities to invest at a discount.

4

Key Advantages for Investors

Broad diversification, access to more mature assets, accelerated distributions, and the mitigation of the "J-Curve" effect.


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