At spectup, we've developed a research technique that consistently helps us identify high-potential investment opportunities - what we call "market delta analysis." Essentially, it involves identifying the gap between current market solutions and emerging technologies or trends. I remember using a similar approach during my time at BMW Startup Garage, where we were evaluating potential investments in the mobility sector. We'd look at not just the technology itself, but how it addressed specific pain points in the industry that existing players weren't handling well. This technique is particularly effective because it forces you to understand both the market's current limitations and where it's headed. One of our team members recently applied this method to evaluate a promising AI startup, and it revealed a significant opportunity in supply chain optimization that wasn't immediately obvious from their pitch deck. By quantifying this "delta" between current state and future potential, we can make more informed investment decisions. This approach has been a game-changer for our clients looking to stay ahead of the curve.
When it comes to real estate investing in particular, when I am researching an investment, I look well beyond the investment itself - meaning I don't just look at the property. I look into things like how housing prices are trending in the area, stats regarding people moving to/from the area, projections for the local economy and job growth in the next 5/10/20 years, any upcoming changes happening to the neighborhood, etc. All of these things help me get a much clearer picture about how much potential and risk an investment has.