Gunnar Wiedenfels

🚀 Empowering the Start-up Scene through Tax Reform for Employee Participation I'm thrilled to spread the word about our feature in "Börsen-Zeitung", with Dr. Frank Betz and myself shedding light onto the Future Financing Act, a pivotal move to bolster employee stock ownership. Vital Insights You Shouldn't Miss 🗝️: ✅ Increased tax-free allowance: The allowance for employee participation has been raised from €1,440 to €2,000 per year. ✅ Deferred taxation option: Employees in start-ups can now benefit even more from tax deferrals, with the period extended up to 20 years after incorporation and the option to defer taxes from 12 to 15 years. 🔁 ✅ Limits? 🔍 Yes, companies must not exceed 1,000 employees and an annual turnover of €100 million or a balance sheet total of €86 million. In addition, the new legislation⚖️ prevents the "Dry Income" phenomenon, as it now also includes restricted (registered) shares and shares granted by shareholders. 💡 These updates are a crucial step in enhancing Germany's attractiveness as a start-up hub and in competing in the global talent race. Dive deeper here: https://lnkd.in/dC4_qkkg Keen to hear your perspective – jump in on the discussion below! Share your insights, and let's discuss how these changes can shape the future of our vibrant start. - Disclaimer -  This post reflects personal experience and general knowledge. It's neither meant as advice nor a professional opinion. Given that everyone's situation is unique, consider seeking personalized advice tailored to your circumstances. 💡

27

5 Comments

🚀#OMR highlights the push for #Transparency in #PrivateEquity    The OMR Conference features a panel discussing the increasing efforts to make the private equity sector more transparent and accessible. Panelists including Laura Schroeder Schröder from KKR, Lorenz Jüngling from Moonfare, and Georgia Hädicke explored themes covered in the session titled "Private Equity for the Masses – A Closed Industry Opens Up."    The focus on enhancing the visibility and accessibility of private equity, supported by both industry leaders and media, reflects a significant shift towards greater openness in the sector. This commitment is echoed by recent initiatives like our #PECConference, which also emphasized transparency in private equity. Laura Schröder's participation at both events highlights her prominent role in advocating for these changes.    Let's continue to make private equity more approachable and transparent! This is an exciting time to push the boundaries and set new standards!    #OMRConference #PrivateEquity #IndustryInnovation #Transparency

39

1 Comment

Great day yesterday at DIRK Jahreskonferenz in Frankfurt where I hosted a session on «ESRS - Signal and Noise» jointly with Tanja Nagel from Heidelberg Materials and Dominik Deiters from SCHUFA Holding AG. The gist of the session was: while ESRS transform organisations radically, 1. do not expect investment professionals to take to ESG reports like painters take to turpentine; 2. identify the 10% of the strategically relevant topics in ESG that allow building a narrative i.e., use the Double Materiality Analysis as a strategic tool; and 3. do not expect investment professionals to go hunting for ESRS or ESG - bring it to them, deliver it through a platform internally and externally. (Spoiler alarm: this will not be the last time you will be hearing us talk about the strategic value of ESRS!). #ESG #ESRS #DIRK #Sustainserv #SCHUFA

79

8 Comments

I sat down with Nina and Gründerszene to talk about how we at Heartcore think about new investments. The article is in German and behind a G+ subscription, so here are a few of the essential - if perhaps not only surprising - points: 1) As an early stage investor, you need to invest in markets that can still be relevant in 20 years. If I invest in a company today, I assume a great exit to come in 15 years at the earliest. And in order for such an exit to materialize, the company still has to solve a substantial problem then. 2) At Heartcore, we invest in “big technology transformation, big trends, big problem areas.” What exactly that is changes over time. --> Like in our earlier funds we invest no matter whether you are currently selling b2b, b2c or else. We see that the distribution models often change over time and are in itself not "why" a company becomes successful, just the "how". 3) “Every Heartcore investor has at least one investment theme that he or she is deeply concerned with over a longer period of time.” --> Usually that person will lead or will be looped into the conversation with the teams building in the respective space 4) One advice especially for founders: don't just take me and other VCs at their word. Do your due diligence on the fund and the individuals there. "Ultimately, as a founder you want investors who will show up when times are tough. The tough times will come, inevitably. But with a good founder-investor relationship they are much easier to bear." https://lnkd.in/eTATYNsQ

79

1 Comment

📊 Venture Capital 101: Grundlagen und Strategien für Investoren Venture Capital (VC) is a powerful way to fuel innovation and growth, but it requires a solid understanding of its fundamentals. Here’s what you need to know: - What is Venture Capital? - Key Players in Venture Capital - Critical Success Factors - Strategies for Investors - Risks and Rewards Understanding the basics and developing effective strategies are crucial for success in Venture Capital. Ready to explore the world of VC? Contact us for expert guidance and personalized strategies! #VentureCapital #VCInvesting #StartupFunding #InvestmentStrategy #BusinessGrowth

1

My colleague and the founder of BCG's Center for Mobility Innovation, Nikolaus Lang, joined the “Imagine This...” #podcast, to talk about the end of the era of global #trade and what's next for businesses. Listen to the full conversation with co-hosts Paul Michelman and the conversational AI agent GENE here.

20

This was a truly inspiring panel! Thanks to Dr. Anne Bendzulla, Markus Freikamp, and Ralf Garrecht for joining Dr. Sebastian Scheurle and myself on stage! My key take away is that a *value*-focused approach to GenAI must be complemented by a **values**-based approach to gain acceptance in both companies and society. The Risk function is in a prime position to orchestrate across the various stakeholders like Cyber, Data Privacy, Legal, Compliance, etc., However, Risk must step up and repair its image of "the guys who prohibited Chat GPT" to becoming the enablers for a responsible use of GenAI. Exchanging perspectives with some of the leading thinkers from Cyber, Risk, IT, and strategy really advanced the discussion! #genai #futureofrisk #cyber

8

The Importance of a Strategic Approach to M&A Target Selection: Ensuring Long-Term Success   By Thomas Kessler  Managing Partner at Integration Success GmbH and Atlantic M&A Partners | Pioneer in AI and M&A Integrations | #MergersAndAcquisitions #StrategicAlignment #ExecutiveEngagement 💡🤝   The target selection process in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is critical to the success of any transaction. Here are the six core steps to ensure your company finds the right partner and generates sustainable value:   First, identify the strategic needs of your company. A thorough strategic analysis reveals where your company stands and what capabilities or resources may augment your positioning to achieve your long-term goals. This analysis forms the foundation for finding the right acquisition target.   Second, define a precise profile for the potential acquisition target. Ensure the candidate is not only financially attractive but also a good cultural and operational fit for your company. Clear criteria help to select the best options and streamline the selection process.   Third, identify a competent deal team. The skills and experience of your team are crucial to the success of the transaction. From due diligence to integration, you need experts in finance, law, tax, HR, technology, operations and change management.   Fourth, evaluate the post-acquisition value. Identify value drivers and associated synergies and strategize how you may realize them. This includes optimizing processes, accessing new markets, and leveraging technological innovations.   Fifth, identify potential issues and barriers as early as possible. These include regulatory hurdles, cultural differences, and operational challenges. A proactive approach to problem-solving minimizes risks and prevents unexpected costs.   Sixth, develop a clear end-state vision for the integration of the target. A detailed integration plan ensures that all stakeholders work towards the same goal. The vision should include both short-term and long-term perspectives and provide a roadmap for implementation.   Answering these questions before moving forward with a target is essential to ensure the transaction's success and create long-term value.   What are your experiences in selecting acquisition targets? What challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them? Share your thoughts in the comments! 💡   #MergersAndAcquisitions #StrategicAlignment #CorporateStrategy #BusinessGrowth #Leadership

14

4 Comments

Companies that do more M&A deliver better shareholder returns, as the data has proven again and again. But what do those that succeed at integration do differently? And how can companies with bold M&A ambitions but less of a track record keep up? Explore the 10 key steps we’ve identified that the best integrators consistently follow. https://atbain.co/4bKbaBz

2

The Importance of a Week One Event in M&A Transactions: Driving Engagement and Integration Success By Thomas Kessler   Managing Partner at Integration Success GmbH and Atlantic M&A Partners | Pioneer in AI and M&A Integrations | #MergersAndAcquisitions #StrategicAlignment #ExecutiveEngagement In the dynamic world of mergers and acquisitions, the initial phase post-acquisition is crucial. A well-structured Week One event can be a game-changer, fostering engagement and ensuring a seamless integration plan. The Week One event provides a platform for both the acquirer's and the target's management teams to refine, optimize, and align their integration strategies. This collaborative approach not only identifies potential improvements but also ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page, thereby minimizing future disruptions. Moreover, such an event is instrumental in creating buy-in from all participants. When team members are actively involved in shaping the integration plan, their commitment to the plan's success increases. This engagement is vital for overcoming the inevitable challenges that arise during integration. Finally, the Week One event sets a positive tone for the integration process. By prioritizing clear communication and collective problem-solving from the outset, companies can build a strong foundation for long-term success. How do you ensure effective engagement in your M&A integration plans? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments! 🤝💡🤔 #IntegrationPlanning #PostMergerIntegration #MandAInsights #IntegrationSuccess #MandAStrategy #LeadershipInMandA

13

2 Comments

Happy belated birthday, neuland Ventures GmbH!! On July 31st, we celebrated our 5th anniversary. As a founder and managing partner, I am immensely proud of our journey and achievements. Especially, I am very proud of my son Moritz who is the Managing Director of neuland Ventures GmbH. "It is high time for more courage to embrace disruption by doing the right things rather than merely doing things right." neuland Ventures GmbH is dedicated to fostering rethinking and perspective shifts in the workplace, society, and individuals. Our goal is to recognize and use technology as a lever for greater sustainability. Our startups serve as essential accelerators, constantly optimizing the future and conveying the values of tomorrow. 🚀 Curious? 

68

5 Comments

#DISPUTE #SPA if you are interested in Post M&A Disputes then see Irina Novikova's round table discussion on 27 June - see the links in her post.

10

Can finance drive revenue growth and meet sustainability goals? Questions like these are currently at the forefront of many conversations. So, I was happy to discuss at today’s Handelsblatt #CFOSummit2024 how integrating sustainability into our corporate strategy impacts the finance function. Some key points we touched: 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: We set ourselves ambitious sustainability goals, aiming at improving healthcare access for all, preserving our planet’s resources, and engaging our diverse #TeamHealthineers. 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐬: Embracing these goals enhanced our organizational learning to include sustainability-oriented boundary conditions in our daily operations, along with a workforce dedicated to our purpose. 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Finance is pivotal in navigating and resolving conflicting goals. Integrating sustainability metrics into performance measurements ensures that our strategic direction is aligned with long-term environmental, social, and economic objectives. 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬: Prioritization is key. As a market leader investing heavily in innovation, we carefully assess and balance our goals. This approach allows us to drive sustainable growth while maintaining financial robustness, ensuring our investments in sustainability and circularity yield tangible economic benefits.   Integrating sustainability into our corporate strategy is a moral imperative and a strategic advantage. I'm excited to continue the discussion and explore new ways to drive sustainable transformation in the finance function with #TeamHealthineers. Carola Backes   #Sustainability #Innovation #Finance #CorporateStrategy

281

1 Comment

Germany stands at a pivotal moment. Its greatest challenge – a shrinking workforce and an aging population – could also be its biggest opportunity. Did you know that nearly 20% of German businesses with migrant backgrounds were founded in recent years? That's double the rate of native-born entrepreneurs. This isn't just a statistic; it's a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion. Just like the US, where 55% of unicorns were immigrant-founded, Germany has the potential to become a global innovation powerhouse by embracing global talent. Let's harness this entrepreneurial spirit and build a future where everyone has a chance to succeed, regardless of their origin. Thanks to Börsen-Zeitung for letting me share my thoughts on this and more in my recent op-ed: https://lnkd.in/dYPRHs6Q

32

2 Comments

Five building blocks can help Germany build a stronger foundation to expand private equity investment, creating value, employment, and economic growth.

1

💪Empowering Founders: Navigating the Complexities of Financing (I enjoyed talking about this with Für-Gründer.de!)😍 As a passionate advocate for founders, I find immense joy in supporting them on their entrepreneurial journeys. Too often, we neglect to pause and reflect on the profound ramifications of the decisions we make, particularly regarding financing. Choosing the right form of financing isn't just about securing capital; it's about understanding the broader implications for the cap table, founders, team dynamics, branding, and the pace of growth. Each decision carries its own set of opportunities and challenges that must be carefully considered. From bootstrapping to venture capital, each financing option shapes the trajectory of a startup in unique ways. By understanding these nuances, founders can make informed decisions that align with their long-term vision and values. Let's engage in meaningful conversations that delve into the intricacies of financing, ensuring that every choice empowers founders to build resilient and impactful ventures. Together, let's navigate the complexities and pave the way for success. #FounderSupport #FinancingStrategies #EntrepreneurialJourney #startup #entrepreneurship #venturecapital @ XAnge

19

M&A Strategy: Key Elements for Success By Thomas Kessler   Managing Partner at Integration Success GmbH and Atlantic M&A Partners | Pioneer in AI and M&A Integrations   #MergersAndAcquisitions #StrategicAlignment #ExecutiveEngagement In the fascinating world of M&A, success hinges on a well-crafted strategy that covers every aspect from target selection to post-integration. Here’s a concise guide on essential elements to focus on: 1. Target Capabilities and Profile: Identifying the right target involves assessing capabilities and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. This means evaluating potential targets’ strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats within their environment. 2. Purpose and Value Proposition: Clarifying the strategic purpose behind the acquisition and the value it brings is crucial. This involves aligning the acquisition’s objectives with the overall strategy and tracking performance post-acquisition. 3. Best Owner of the Asset: Determining the optimal owner involves understanding which entity can extract the most value from the asset. Identifying synergies and integration points is essential to maximize value. 4. Business Case Development: Building a robust business case ensures that the acquisition is financially sound and strategically justified. This includes forecasting potential outcomes and assessing risks to ensure a solid foundation for the acquisition. 5. Integration Approach: The integration strategy should focus on achieving operational and cultural synergy. Effective change management and meticulous planning facilitate smooth integration and track progress. 🔍 What strategies have you found most effective in your M&A projects? Share your insights below! #SynergySessions #CorporateStrategy #IntegrationPlanning #PostMergerIntegration #MandAInsights #IntegrationSuccess #MandAStrategy #LeadershipInMandA

28

4 Comments

ICYMI: Speedinvest was granted a full AIFM licence by FMA Finanzmarktaufsicht Österreich. 😎 🙏 Another milestone on our journey of pioneering VC in Austria🇦🇹: 🔸 2011 first VC fund launched in a decade (AuM 10m) 🔸 2015 first EuVECA fund (AuM 100m) 🔸 2024 first VC fund with AIFM licence (AuM 1b) A big step in our efforts of further professionalizing VC in Austria: There are only 22 other domestic firms with such a licence and we are the only VC in this group. This puts us on the same level with firms such as Allianz Invest, Erste Asset Management GmbH, Gutmann KAG, IQAM Invest GmbH, KEPLER-FONDS Kapitalanlagegesellschaft m.b.H., Lansdowne Partners, LLB Invest KAG, Raiffeisen KAG, Schoellerbank Invest AG, 3 Banken-Generali Investment-Gesellschaft m.b.H. invest.austria Invest Europe Industriellenvereinigung #venturecapital #risikokapital

433

40 Comments