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How do Early Stage High Technology Investors Select Their Investments?

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  • B. CLARYSSE
  • M. KNOCKAERT
  • A. LOCKETT

Abstract

This study examines the selection behaviour of 68 European early stage high tech VCs. In particular, we examine whether or not these VCs exhibit heterogeneity in their selection behaviour. To examine these issues we employ a conjoint analysis methodology. Our results indicate that VCs exhibit substantial heterogeneity in investment selection behaviour. Employing a cluster analysis three types of investors emerge: those who focus on technology, those who focus on finance and those who focus on people. We then examine the drivers of these differences, being the sectoral focus, the sources of funds and the human capital of the investment manager.

Suggested Citation

  • B. Clarysse & M. Knockaert & A. Lockett, 2005. "How do Early Stage High Technology Investors Select Their Investments?," Working Papers of Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Ghent University, Belgium 05/297, Ghent University, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration.
    • Handle: RePEc:rug:rugwps:05/297
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    Cited by:

    1. Christian Schröder, 2009. "Financial System and Innovations-Determinants of Early Stage Venture Capital in Europe," Schumpeter Discussion Papers sdp09004, Universitätsbibliothek Wuppertal, University Library.
    2. Mark J. Ahn, 2014. "Enhancing Corporate Governance in High-Growth Entrepreneurial Firms," International Journal of Innovation and Technology Management (IJITM), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 11(06), pages 1-16.
    3. Sonja Bettina Keppler & Marieta Olaru & Georgiana Marin, 2015. "Fostering Entrepreneurial Investment Decision in Medical Technology Ventures in a Changing Business Environment," The AMFITEATRU ECONOMIC journal, Academy of Economic Studies - Bucharest, Romania, vol. 17(38), pages 390-390, February.
    4. Douglas Cumming & Grant Fleming & Armin Schwienbacher, 2008. "Financial intermediaries, ownership structure and the provision of venture capital to SMEs: evidence from Japan," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 31(1), pages 59-92, June.
    5. Hao Zhong & Chuanren Liu & Junwei Zhong & Hui Xiong, 2018. "Which startup to invest in: a personalized portfolio strategy," Annals of Operations Research, Springer, vol. 263(1), pages 339-360, April.

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