Alternative Thinking from GrowthInvest

GrowthInvest

Alternative Thinking takes a deeper dive into the alternative investment marketplace & related topical issues. Melissa & Steve are joined by leading industry figures to tackle major themes & deliver valuable insights into UK tax-efficient investments & broader alternative market investments. With up to date market commentary on EIS, VCT & IHT investments, plus global Private Equity and Venture Capital. This podcast is targeted at Professional Advisers only and none of the content should be construed as investment advice or a financial promotion. Find out more at growthinvest.com

  1. Season 1, Episode 1 Trailer

    IHT Thinking No1 - IHT Unlocked (Mini Series Trailer)

    The first episode of IHT THINKING, an ALTERNATIVE THINKING podcast, sponsored by Puma Investments, Foresight and Downing, specially dedicated to Inheritance Tax. The FULL EPISODE is available only to Financial Advisers at our website https://growthinvest.com/podcasts/ Hosted by GrowthInvest, this brand-new mini-series of specialised podcasts delivers thought leadership discussion around the impacts to estate planning that have been driven by the significant recent changes in IHT legislation and those to come over the next 12 months. In this first episode we welcome Jessica Franks (Puma), Richard Roberts (Foresight) and Nick Priest (Downing) to explore the UK's evolving IHT landscape and what it means for advisers and their clients. The panel discusses the current IHT rules and allowances in the UK, the impact of the April 2026 changes, rising IHT receipts and frozen thresholds, as well as the significant pension reforms due in April 2027, why early planning is essential and the opportunities and responsibilities adviser firms have in supporting clients through intergenerational wealth transfer and long-term estate planning. ---Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong.--- ---CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.--- Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-ce... sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website growthinvest.com #alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #investing #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #IHT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets

  2. Aug 17

    Alternative Thinking - AIMing for Growth

    In this episode, we are joined by Oliver Bedford, Fund Manager at Hargreave Hale AIM VCT, and Simon French, Chief Economist and Head of Research at Panmure Liberum, to discuss the state of the UK smaller companies market and the AIM market in particular. The conversation explores why UK smaller companies have fallen out of favour in recent years, the factors influencing investor sentiment, and the challenges many growth businesses have faced in accessing capital. Our guests discuss the relationship between company fundamentals and market valuations, the implications of recent VCT policy changes, and some of the common misconceptions surrounding AIM-listed companies. The episode also highlights examples of established and growing UK businesses, offering insights into the role AIM continues to play in supporting entrepreneurial and innovative companies across the UK. Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/ Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website. #alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets, #AIM

  3. May 29

    Talking VCTs with Nick Britton of The AIC

    In this episode, we are delighted to welcome Nick Britton, Research and Content Director at The Association of Investment Committee (AIC). We reflect on the 2025/26 VCT fundraising season, examine recent changes to initial income tax relief and investment rules, and share our early perspectives on what the 2026/27 VCT fundraising landscape may hold. Topics discussed include:- Key themes and trends from the latest VCT fundraising cycle- The impact of recent tax relief and regulatory changes- What investors and advisers should be watching ahead of the next season- Early expectations for the evolving VCT market in 2026/27- Are VCTs still an attractive investment following the reduced initial income tax relief Whether you have clients actively investing in VCTs or keeping a close eye on the market, this episode offers timely insights and practical commentary from the team.Don't Invest unless you're prepared to lose all the money you invest. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds, #EconomicUpdate

  4. 11/25/2025

    The Tax Efficient Season To Date

    In this special 'black tie' episode we are joined by Dr Paul Mattick from Mercia Asset Management and Nick Priest from Downing to discuss the current landscape of VCTs, AIM, and tax-efficient investing, ahead of the 2025 Autumn Budget. We explore how market sentiment, product availability, and anticipated policy changes are influencing adviser and investor behaviour. With fundraising quieter than usual, many advisers are taking a wait-and-see approach ahead of the upcoming government budget. The discussion also covers evolving inheritance tax and pension reforms, potential new initiatives like the British ISA, and how pension capital might play a growing role in private markets over time. If you’re interested in how regulatory shifts and market dynamics are shaping this niche of the investment world, this episode offers valuable insights.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds, #EconomicUpdate

  5. 11/18/2025

    Quarterly Economic Update - Winter 2025-26

    In this episode, Kallum Pickering and Simon French return to share their perspectives on the current economic landscape, discussing recent global economic developments and how major regions are responding to shifting conditions. They examine the cooling of the US labour market, signs of stabilisation in China, and the uneven recovery in Europe and the UK. The conversation highlights the growing importance of political risk, including the pressures facing longstanding institutions and the influence of geopolitical events on economic planning. Both Kallum and Simon also reflect on long-term fiscal challenges and the role of market signals in shaping policy choices. Overall, the episode explores how governments and economies are adapting to a period of persistent uncertainty and structural change. Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds, #EconomicUpdate

  6. 10/29/2025

    Long Term Assets Funds with James Lowe

    In this episode we are delighted to speak with James Lowe about Long Term Asset Funds (LTAFs). Key topics we cover are:• Introduction to LTAFs and their history to date• The Regulatory Framework around LTAFs and the broadening of access• The Suitability and Risk.• Liquidity and Fund Structure models• The comparison with Investment Trusts• Market Demand and Education on LTAFs• Technology and Infrastructure requirements needed from platforms• New Regulatory Developments with the inclusion in Stocks & Shares ISAs and via SIPPs• Deeper dive into the Asset Class Suitability within LTAFsDon't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments, #taxefficient, #wealthmanagement, #ai, #vct, #investing, #vcthighlights, #capitalmarlets, #fundingoptions, #governmentpolicy, #founders, #entrepreneurship, #growth, #investors, #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief, #AIM, #capitalmarkets, #privateequity #privatemarkets,#LTAF, #LongTermAssetFunds

  7. 10/01/2025

    The PISCES Framework

    We’re excited to share Part 2 of our Private Market podcast mini-series! In this episode, we welcomed back Iain Baillie, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder at Asset Match, and Veronika Oswald, Commercial Director at JP Jenkins, as we explore PISCES, a Treasury and FCA-backed initiative aiming to reshape how unquoted equities are traded in the UK. The goal? To create a regulated, transparent environment that broadens access to private markets. Key topics we covered include: 1. What is PISCES?An introduction to the initiative and its potential to support liquidity and transparency in private equity trading.2. Expanding the Investor BaseWe discuss the shift from high-net-worth individuals to a more diverse group including family offices, smaller institutions, and potentially pension funds. 3. Challenges in UK Capital MarketsFrom declining AIM listings to reduced IPO activity, we unpack the structural issues impacting growth and investor confidence. 4. Barriers to Going PublicHigh costs and limited appetite for smaller companies are pushing firms to consider staying private longer — could PISCES offer a viable alternative? 5. Regulatory OutlookWe explore the FCA’s role, the sandbox period, and how competition among operators (including the LSE) might shape the future landscape. Whether you're in finance, policy, or just curious about the evolution of UK markets, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what’s next.Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK.INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website.#alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets, #AIM, #PISCES

  8. 09/15/2025

    Private Market Liquidity

    We’re excited to share Part 1 of our Private Market podcast series! In this episode, we welcomed Iain Baillie, Executive Chairman and Co-Founder at Asset Match, and Veronica Oswald, Commercial Director at JP Jenkins, to explore how private market venues are evolving to support companies and shareholders. Some of the key discussions included: • Trading Processes & Structures• Types of Companies Using Private Market Venues • Supporting Companies Beyond Trading • Innovative Technology & Cap Table Management A great insight into how private market venues are evolving to meet the needs of modern companies and shareholders! Don't Invest unless you are prepared to lose all your money. These are high risk investments and you are unlikely to be protected if something goes wrong. CAPITAL AT RISK. INFORMATION IS CORRECT AT TIME OF RECORDING BUT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Visit GrowthInvest.com for more information, helpful interviews and guides in our Knowledge Centre at https://growthinvest.com/knowledge-centre-welcome/ Or sign up for a free demonstration of the GrowthInvest Platform at our website growthinvest.com #alternativeinvestments #taxefficient #wealthmanagement #ai #vct #investing #vcthighlights #capitalmarlets #fundingoptions #governmentpolicy #founders #entrepreneurship #growth #investors #adviser, #SEIS, #EIS, #IHT, #VCT, #iht #inheritance, #inheritanceplanning, #businessrelief #AIM #capitalmarkets #privateequity #privatemarkets, #AIM, #PISCES

Trailer

About

Alternative Thinking takes a deeper dive into the alternative investment marketplace & related topical issues. Melissa & Steve are joined by leading industry figures to tackle major themes & deliver valuable insights into UK tax-efficient investments & broader alternative market investments. With up to date market commentary on EIS, VCT & IHT investments, plus global Private Equity and Venture Capital. This podcast is targeted at Professional Advisers only and none of the content should be construed as investment advice or a financial promotion. Find out more at growthinvest.com