John Candeto: The Importance of Survival, The Power Laws, The Study of Complexity in Investing

A fascinating, wide-ranging discussion.

John Candeto is the Founder and Managing Partner of the Phronesis Fund. Co-Founder of JoinWDA (Workforce Data Alliance).

Tom Morgan connected us. We met at Markel’s meeting in Richmond earlier this year. I’ve been looking forward to this conversation, and you will see in a moment why.

John applies the study of Complexity to investing, and he is open to discussing it with others, please feel free to reach out to him.

Takeaways:

  • Survival is a crucial aspect of investing.

  • Exposing oneself to power law outcomes is essential for wise wealth growth.

  • Volatility is not the same as risk; risk involves the potential for permanent loss of capital.

  • Traditional statistics and averages have limitations in understanding complex systems and long-term investing.

  • Taking a long-term view in investing allows for a different perspective and reduces the focus on short-term fluctuations.

  • Power laws are prevalent in various aspects of life, such as economic output and company size.

  • Living by a set of values helps prioritize and make intentional choices.

  • Learning in public and engaging in feedback loops accelerates personal growth and understanding.

  • Asking the right questions is essential in navigating complex issues and finding valuable insights.

  • Writing family stories can help reflect on values and create a sense of gratitude.

  • Balancing structure and serendipity is important for productivity and creativity.

Here are some resources that could help with your prep:

JohnCandeto.com (links to everything)

HowWeWantToLive.com (family values and journey)

Partnership Letters

Power Laws Rule the World

Partnership Summary

Podcast Program – Disclosure Statement

Blue Infinitas Capital, LLC is a registered investment adviser and the opinions expressed by the Firm’s employees and podcast guests on this show are their own and do not reflect the opinions of Blue Infinitas Capital, LLC. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice.

Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies.  Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. 

Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives, and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment adviser to determine whether any information presented may be suitable for their specific situation.  Past performance is not indicative of future performance.

Bogumil Baranowski's Substack
Talking Billions
I’m Bogumil Baranowski, author, TEDx speaker, investor, and investment advisor.
Intimate conversations about money, wealth, and living a rich and fulfilling life.
We talk about big ideas, big inspirations, big topics. We take on the hardest subject of all – money: how to make it, save it, keep it, but our conversations lead us to an even bigger question — what it means to live a rich life beyond money. My guests share their practices, principles, and evergreen wisdom.
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