E285: The Lower Middle Market: Where Private Equity Still Generates Alpha

Highlights:

• The market gap that led Jeff to launch Corbel Capital Partners
• Why traditional banks retreated from lower middle market lending
• The difference between growing a firm horizontally versus vertically
• How managing an investment firm differs from being an investor
• Fundraising challenges for emerging and mid-sized managers
• Using multiple strategies without outgrowing a core market focus
• The role of SBIC leverage in enhancing return profiles
• Why special situations investing is increasingly attractive
• Aligning incentives across teams and strategies

Guest Bio:

Jeff Schwartz is the Founder and Managing Partner of Corbel Capital Partners, a private investment firm focused on structured capital solutions for lower middle market businesses. He is a senior private equity investment professional with extensive experience raising capital and executing leveraged buyouts, distressed debt-for-control investments, and structured equity transactions across multiple industries, with a focus on consumer products and retail, specialty manufacturing, and business services. Prior to founding Corbel in 2014, Jeff held senior roles at Ares Management.

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Sponsor:

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LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-schwartz-corbel-capital

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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.