In this episode of the Startup CEO Show, join us as Mark MacLeod welcomes special guest Amar Varma, co-founder and CEO of Mantle, for a captivating discussion. Discover how Mantle is revolutionizing private asset tracking through innovative AI integration and fresh approaches. Gain strategic insights from Amar as he explores market opportunities for startups and the transition to an enterprise-driven model. Explore the complexities of investment strategy and the transformative potential of AI, all while delving into Amar's invaluable firsthand experiences in the startup world. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights on how to become a successfull startup CEO! ----------------------- Key moments: 00:00 - 04:39 Reimagining market with fresh approach and AI. 04:39 - 08:23 A dominant player in finance. 08:23 - 13:03 Becoming investor after previous experiences with no regrets. 13:03 - 16:25 Invest wisely, be mindful about timing and luck. 16:25 - 20:26 Embracing feedback, self-awareness, and professional growth. 20:26 - 23:54 Understanding my process and transparent communication 23:54 - 26:46 Identify winners by DNA and winning consciousness. 26:46 - 29:29:Obsessive people find success in various domains. 32:00 - 37:14: Considering alignment before investing in overpriced companies. 37:14 - 41:05: AI progress with potential misuse concerning. 41:05 - 43:11: Founder-led company going public. ------------------------------------------ Since 1999, I have sat at the right-hand side of the leaders of high growth technology companies as either a CFO, VC or deal maker. I served as CFO for software companies including Shopify (NYSE: SHOP) and Freshbooks. As a CFO I experienced outright failures, wildly profitable exits, and everything in between. I was a General Partner in Real Ventures, Canada's largest and most active seed stage fund. My investments there include the fund's largest cash on cash and highest IRR returns to date. Most recently, I founded SurePath Capital Partners the leading investment bank for SMB SaaS companies where we did hundreds of millions in financing and exit transactions. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themarkmacleod/ Connect on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/markmacleod_ Contact Mark: https://markmacleod.me/