Ward Masclee

In recent years, the amount of capital raised in the Dutch private equity (PE) landscape has accelerated significantly. ➡️ This growth seems driven by both increased fund sizes and a rising number of funds. ➡️ Across specific asset classes (buy-out, early-stage, venture, growth, mezzanine, etc.), this pattern holds. ➡️ In fact, 2023 has been another record-breaking year despite the rough investment climate during and after the pandemic. ❓What do you think this implies for entrepreneurs, companies, LPs, and GPs? What are the crucial observations and nuances at a more granular level? 🤗 There's more behind these numbers. Let me know or reach out if you wish to discuss further!

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The TICC market is in motion. Consolidators are making their move and private equity is also highly active, both on the buy- and sell-side. Furthermore, Arjen Kostelijk expects significant M&A activity for the remainder of 2024, considering the propositions that are currently in the market and those expected to come. In our latest Spot On, we look at the current landscape for the global TICC sector and the recent trends impacting M&A activity. In addition, we look at the acquisition of Testing Srl by White Lab and the acquisition of AQCF (AGRO QUALITY CONSULTING FRANCE) by Groupe CARSO, in which Oaklins acted as buy-side advisor. To read more: https://lnkd.in/eGux_gWd

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Syndicate One was founded to elevate the Belgian tech ecosystem. But you can’t fly blind, and we increasingly felt the lack of a truly comprehensive overview of our ecosystem to guide us forward. That's why we teamed up with Bain & Company and Sofina to create the first-ever State of Belgian Tech Report 🇧🇪 — a clear map of our ecosystem for entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers to make better, more informed decisions. After analyzing data, surveying 130+ founders, and conducting in-depth interviews, we found: 📈 Capital investment is growing, with 2024 poised for a record year, 💥 The ecosystem is maturing, with more exits expected, 🐣 Early-stage startups receive most of the funding, 🤝 A ‘mafia’ of entrepreneurs is emerging, but support remains fragmented, 🏆 Talent scarcity and ESOP policy hinder scaling. The Report is now live — dive in at syndicate.one/report, reach out, and help drive Belgium’s entrepreneurial future. It’s looking bright! 🚀 Grateful for your support Cedric Bovy, Narcis Savu, Yanni Vissers, Olivier Lippens, Nicolas Boschman, Céline Koyen, Robin Wauters, Alexis Eggermont, Giulia Van Waeyenberge, Constantin Jamar, Stefanie Broes, Willem Delbare, Thoralf Gutierrez, Hendrik Isebaert, Louis Opsomer, Adrien Roose, Thibaut Claes, Sven De Cleyn, Katrin Geyskens, Jürgen Ingels, Quentin Nickmans, Kamil Mieczakowski, Olivier Rousseaux, Matthieu Demolin, Yoram Wijngaarde, Jonas Winand, Frederik Tibau, Sarah Guemouri

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I am speaking at The Future of Protein Production in Amsterdam along with several great speakers from corporates, investors and startups. The event is taking place at RAI on October 23rd and 24th. Join me and over 100 other speakers to hear about the latest developments in alternative proteins. Find out more & register via the link in the comments. The Future of Food Production #alternativeproteins #fermentation #plantbased #foodandbeverages #cellularagriculture #novelfoods #sustaianbility #innovation

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Hey entrepreneur! Did you know that a solid financial plan helps you gain better insights into the future of your business? 💡 A financial plan consists of three main elements: 1️⃣ P&L: A projection of revenue, costs, and profit. 2️⃣ Balance sheet: An overview of assets and liabilities. 3️⃣ Cash flow statement: A detailed overview of incoming and outgoing euros. Together, these components provide a clear picture of how your business may evolve and what’s needed for its growth. A professional financial plan is crucial for building trust with investors. A professional financial plan starts by defining your strategy and helps estimate the necessary funding. It’s an essential tool to fully understand and unlock the potential of your business. 💼 We can assist you in creating a professional financial plan. Plus, as a registered service provider, you can benefit from the 'KMO-portefeuille', allowing you to access a valuable subsidy. 💡 Feel free to contact us at www.cfo-as-a-service.be for more information! #financialplan #cashflow #investors #strategy #CFOasAService

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Interesting article by Het Financieele Dagblad on 7 different (arche)types of #privateequity #investors. Although as entrepreneurs we don't like to be boxed in, our stakeholders and investors characterize us to be "The Specialist", given our full focus on Technology niches in software, IT and High-Tech since our inception in Summer 2022. After 20+ years of expertise and network gained in the tech sector and having worked closely with and experienced the entire spectrum of private equity investing, we created our own entrepreneurial and specialized investment firm. Our clear USP's are 1) our true technology industry expertise, 2) our dense and trustful network of promising tech companies, advisors and exclusive backing by 50+ entrepreneurs resulting in proprietary dealflow and 3) most importantly, our entrepreneurial spirit underpinned by our value creation strategy in the lower-end of the mid-market. We love to support ambitious tech entrepreneurs and promising tech companies who are still operating below the radar of generalist and traditional mid-market private equity investors and unlock their full potential. We are continuously scouting and screening unique, proprietary dealflow to create long term value for all our stakeholders. We are currently fundraising for several new proprietary deals in our second fund called #Smartware focusing on #hightech, #robotics, #IoT and #Software and #IT for Industrial Manufacturing. Interested to learn more? Please reach out to our Managing Partners Bob Rottinghuis, Jules Bernaerts or Laurens van der Gun for more information. Read the full article here [Dutch-only] 👉 https://lnkd.in/e6f9x8aC

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I look forward to the panel conversation about ESG and Impact Investing and catching up with people during the conference. Thanks Private Equity Insights for the invitation! #privateequity #ESG #impactinvesting #netzero

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Only for beer fans – Ever thought you could make your own beer in just a few seconds? The crowdinvestment campaign has begun. Dirk Standaert is a friend. I met him at THE ABRAHAMIC BUSINESS CIRCLE some time ago like many interesting people. Dirk is an entrepreneur with big ideas and a bold vision for the future. Europe needs more people with his mindset. One of his innovations is Bar.on - the future of beverages ▶ Craft your own beer exactly the way you like it, in seconds. ▶ Whether you prefer fruity, bitter, or alcohol-free, just use tap water and one of their innovative flavor cartridges. ▶ Reduce CO2 emissions by skipping water-heavy bottled beers – it’s a win for the planet. If you love the concept, you can invest with as little as €500 in the crowdfunding campaign. Belgian residents also enjoy a 45% tax incentive. Check the link in the comments. #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #Crowdfunding #Sustainability

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Proud to present our group analysis of ASML’s Profit and Loss Account and Cash Flow Statements under US GAAP and IFRS. Through detailed examination, we explored key differences in revenue recognition, expense treatment, and cash flow classifications under both frameworks. This collaboration deepened our understanding of: How ASML navigates financial complexities as a global semiconductor leader. The impact of accounting frameworks on financial outcomes and investor perception. Key learnings in harmonizing compliance with strategic decision-making. A huge shoutout to this incredible team for their dedication and insights during this deep-dive project! #FinancialAnalysis #USGAAP #IFRS #ASML #AccountingStandards #Teamwork #CashFlow #ProfitAndLoss #SemiconductorIndustry #LearningAndGrowth

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Very excited to see the Marktplaats Effect report published, which estimates how Marktplaats users are contributing to the circular economy. Marktplaats, part of Adevinta (a Blackstone portfolio company), is a leading online platform in the Netherlands enabling customers to purchase pre-loved products.   Buying second-hand items extends the life cycle of products, reduces demand for new items, and helps lower carbon emissions and waste. In 2023, 18.3 million second-hand items were traded on Marktplaats. By giving these items a second, third, or even fourth life, users have potentially avoided 329,109 tons of CO2eq emissions. This is equivalent to approximately 189,000 round-flight trips between Amsterdam and New York.   We are convinced that the growth of the second-hand market in the Netherlands will enable platforms like Marktplaats to thrive.   https://lnkd.in/exzqpJCX  

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June 27: Tax opportunities for startups and scale-ups together with BDO Nederland at Noviotech Campus. We will address the following with Bernard de Vree: - What are the advantages and disadvantages of different business structures?  - How to gain and maintain control over complex issues with conflicting interests? A great tool for this is the Innovation Control Framework developed by BDO. What if an investor approaches you, will they participate in the entire company or just a part of it? How does that work? And what is their role? What if you need extra help, do you hire employees or work with freelancers? And last but not least: what are the tax consequences of an exit and what is being sold or not sold? Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/e4ANGE_S #taxopportunities #startup #scaleup #entrepreneurs #tax #taxconsequences #businessstructures #investors #employees #lifeport

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What an extraordinary Venture Capital Conference. I gained powerful insights of the investment and entrepreneurial ecosystem in the netherlands and europe. 🚀🍀 It is also great to be member of the Financial Study association Rotterdam (FSR). #Slinghot #FinchCapital #NosuchVentures #venturecapital

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🚨 France 2040: The Critical Path Ahead The latest report from the Fondation Jean Jaurès - Jean Jaurès Stiftung - Jean Jaurès foundation - Jean Jaurès Stichting reveals unsettling yet crucial insights about our potential future. Two Potential Futures: 🤝🏽🌍 Alpha Future: A society that prioritizes collective well-being, cohesion, and protection of the vulnerable. Here, political authorities play a pivotal role in curbing inequality and moderating economic influence. 💸🔗 Omega Future: A society dominated by market forces and money, where the state is powerless, and inequality spirals into fragmentation and overreliance on unsustainable technology. I made my choice. Key Takeaways: 🙌🏻 Collective Action is Essential: Our future is not set in stone. We still have the power to shape it through decisive collective action. 🌟 💔 Embracing Sobriety: The concept of living with less is challenging, yet it’s crucial for bridging societal divides. Sobriety isn't about regression; it's about reconnecting with what truly matters—relationships, passions, and nature. 🍃 ⚡ Adaptation & Mitigation: You can’t pick one or the others, both are interlinked now, and we need to address them both. 🌍 Climate Debate Evolution: The conversation has shifted from questioning the reality of climate change (it’s real!) to debating the urgency of action versus a gradual transition. We can’t afford delays given the accelerating damage to ecosystems. ⏳🔥 It’s not just about what we do, but how we do it. And the choices we make today will shape not just the next 20 years, but the generations to come. 👇 Report below cc daphni #ClimateAction #France2040 #Sustainability #FutureIsNow

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Today we talked about the current status of ESG, its challenges and opportunities at the 6th Annual Private Wealth Benelux Forum in Amsterdam. We also discussed how investing with impact is growing but also how challenging is to be additional, measure impact, and deal with regulation. All of this in just about 35 minutes! I had the pleasure to share this panel with Vincent Triesschijn, Pieter van Stijn, Nikki Trip and Catheleyne Everwijn-van Erp LLM. Thanks Sherell Ghauharali and Markets Group for organising this panel and the event! #ESG #impact #impactinvesting #investments

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💡 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐚𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐦𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐦 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞. Join 6,000 ambitious professionals worldwide who already benefit from the biweekly 𝐀𝐈𝐅 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫. Get exclusive insights from industry experts and the brightest minds in finance from world-renowned business schools. Stay informed about our top programs, and enjoy free access to AIF Alumni Network Events. All delivered straight to your inbox every two weeks. Check out today's newsletter for valuable information, including: 𝟏. Learn from M&A expert Tim Galpin and ESG specialist Maja de Vibe about incorporating ESG across the M&A process. Explore key actions that can help M&A practitioners maximize value and avoid costly mistakes. 𝟐. Highlighted Valuation programs led by Prof. Matti Suominen and Prof. Kevin Kaiser. Are you a professional involved in valuations? Make sure your next investment or acquisition creates value rather than destroying it. 👉 Don't miss out. Subscribe now to the 𝐀𝐈𝐅 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 at AIF.nl (see the form at the bottom of the site). Sign up this week and receive our latest newsletter as your first issue. PS: Read the latest articles, interviews, and checklists on AIF.nl/whats-happening. Amsterdam Institute of Finance connects you with the brightest minds in finance from world-renowned business schools. For more than 30 years, more than 15,000 ambitious professionals from over 100 countries boosted their careers at AIF. Become part of the AIF Alumni Network, connecting you to peers from more than 1,200 organizations. #ESG #Valuation #MergersAndAcquisitions #FinanceEducation #ExecutiveEducation #AmsterdamInstituteofFinance Katelijn, Paula, Heidi, Marianne, Anne-Marije, Paul

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“For Dutch M&A, 2022 was a low point of the market, 2023 was marginally better, and now in 2024 we see things are really improving.” Read the full article > https://bit.ly/3ZgC93V In a recent article with M&A Community, our co-CEOs of DC Advisory Netherlands, Paul de Hek and Robert Ruiter, speak with Djaja Ottenhof about the changing dynamics in the Dutch M&A market, including the rise of debt funds and an influx of foreign investors from the UK and US. #DCAdvisory #Benelux #Netherlands #Debt #MergersandAcquisitions 

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I was glad to have attended the recent event hosted by our Plug and Play Netherlands team with AmCham. It was a real pleasure to meet so many interesting "innovators". I had a great time and engaging discussions. We saw a lot of interest in open innovation from companies across all industries aiming to innovate further, more efficiently and faster. Most of them are already collaborating with startups but are still interested in increasing their ROI from their open innovation activities. In terms of tech focus areas, the highest interest was in Sustainability and having AI impacting the business in a tangible way. 🚀 #PNPTCNetherlands #Sustainability

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If you do not like to read . . . That feeling when you watch the macro forces that undergird your Industrial Transformation & Supply Chain Technology investment thesis ⁦‪at REFASHIOND Ventures: The Industrial Transformation Fund unfolding every single day: Escalating Geopolitical Tensions & Great Power Competition; The Climate Crisis & Severe Weather; Consumer Behavior & Demographics. At most venture capital firms, Industrial Transformation & Supply Chain Technology is a tiny, emerging “area of interest” . . . At REFASHIOND Ventures, it’s our entire world. Join us. #IndustrialTransformation #SupplyChain #Innovation #Technology #Startups #VentureCapital  ====== "We need more, better equipped forces; A more robust transatlantic defence industry; Increased defence production capacity; Greater investment in innovation; and Secure supply chains." - Mark Rutte, Incoming NATO Secretary General

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According to the CBS, the Dutch GDP grew in Q2 24 with 1.0% compared to Q1 24. The increase in GDP in Q2 is primarily attributable to the export of goods (+1.3%). Investments (+0.4%) and government consumption (+1.0%) also contributed positively to growth. The increase in the export of goods is linked to the growth of the industry. Household consumption however decreased by 1.0%. https://lnkd.in/eMEbE2KC

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