Delivering Alpha in Private Markets with Ryan VanGorder

In this episode, Jack Sharry talks with Ryan VanGorder, CEO at Opto Investments, about revolutionizing private markets for wealth managers. Ryan highlights how Opto’s technology simplifies complex private market strategies, helping advisors deliver tailored, scalable solutions to their clients. They discuss the shift from institutional to retail access in private investments and the importance of guided intelligence, customization, and automation. Ryan also shares his passion for adventure racing, drawing parallels between endurance sports and business, emphasizing discipline, adaptability, and teamwork as core values shaping Opto’s culture and approach to client success.

In this episode:

• (00:00) - Intro
• (01:18) - Exploring Opto’s mission and purpose
• (02:09) - Ryan's career journey and the founding of Opto Investments
• (06:33) - Building a business in the retail marketplace
• (11:14) - Transitioning from institutional to retail private markets
• (13:32) - Opto's approach to full portfolio analysis
• (17:35) - Future trends and innovations shaping private markets
• (18:48) - Ryan's key takeaways
• (20:13) - Ryan's passion for adventure racing and interests outside of work

Quotes

"At Opto, we're engineering the future of private markets with a focus on client outcomes and driving capital to the best ideas." ~ Ryan VanGorder

"Opto is built and backed by operators who understand the potential in the private markets, not by AUM-focused mega funds or product pushers." ~ Ryan VanGorder

"The winners in our space, particularly our market, will heavily invest in technology-based solutions and solving for transparency, scale efficiency, and flexibility. And you're going to do all that while delivering on your client's demands." ~ Ryan VanGorder

Links 

• Ryan VanGorder on LinkedIn
• Opto Investments
• BlackRock
• Joe Lonsdale
• Addepar

Connect with our hosts

• LifeYield
• Jack Sharry on LinkedIn
• Jack Sharry on Twitter

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