The Unseen Forces Shaping Private Markets Today
Leon Capital, in partnership with iCapital, provides insights on direct investing, supply chain intricacies, and private market trends ahead.

In a landscape rich with potential, Leon Capital Group stands at the crossroads of innovation and tradition, pushing the boundaries of private markets. A year into their collaboration with iCapital, Leon’s founder, Fernando De Leon, shares a reflective look on the direct investing landscape and its underlying complexities.
The Allure and Pitfalls of Alternative Investments
The excitement surrounding alternative investments such as private equity and venture capital has surged, with interest peaking like never before. Yet, skepticism looms as concerns about “hype” persist. According to WealthBriefing, the stakes are high, and the balance between promise and caution is delicate.
Direct Ownership: A Double-Edged Sword
De Leon champions the virtues of direct ownership, highlighting its agility and alignment with core business interests. Operating on the frontlines unveils opportunities invisible from a distance. Yet, navigating the human element can be challenging—building teams, nurturing talent, and making tough decisions are crucial to success.
Dominance and Dilemmas in the Capital Supply Chain
The supply chain of capital, dominated by private ownership and major financial entities, presents its own set of challenges. De Leon critiques the complexities of conflicts of interest within the capital ecosystem. Direct ownership, he argues, can offer cleaner accountability and alignment of interest.
Weathering Financial Fluctuations
In the face of economic cycles, staying calm and rational is key. De Leon advocates for investing in essentials like healthcare and housing for sustainable returns. Leveraging long-term strategies amidst short-term volatility proves critical in safeguarding investor interests.
Navigating Technological Shifts and Trends
Technology has irreversibly altered the business landscape, with embedded systems subtly taxing all commercial activities. De Leon foresees tech giants extending their influence, hinting at strategic acquisitions in financial services, thereby reshaping market dynamics.
Implications and Future Vision
With technology’s growing grip and the integration of financial services, the future of private markets glistens with complexity and opportunity. De Leon emphasizes the enduring power of patience and long-term vision, likening it to the proverbial marshmallow experiment—a test of delayed gratification in investments.
Navigating the delicate weave of private markets demands foresight, grit, and an unwavering alignment of actions with foundational principles. Leon Capital’s journey exemplifies this ethos, paving the way for next-gen market strategies.