Folklore is known for its focused, high-conviction approach to backing visionary founders from the very beginning. In this episode, Alister shares his journey from startup founder to venture investor, why he believes smaller VC funds are better positioned to deliver alpha, and how Folklore is shaping the next generation of Australian tech success stories. They explore why he has decided to cap his fund raise at $100m and the unique advantages of investing in venture capital in Australia in a very tax-friendly environment.

They explore what differentiates Folklore from larger global funds, why Alister is committed to building in Australia, and how the local venture landscape is changing as more institutional capital enters the market. He also opens up about past fund performance, his current fundraise, and what he looks for in truly exceptional founders.

Folklore target returns of circa 25% p.a + in a traditional venture capital vehicle (10-year lock-up and capital call structure). A candid and insightful conversation for founders, LPs, and anyone with an interest in the future of Australian innovation and venture capital.

Disclaimer:
The information in this podcast series is for general financial educational purposes only, should not be considered financial advice and is only intended for wholesale clients. That means the information does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider if the information is appropriate for you and your needs. You should always consult your trusted licensed professional adviser before making any investment decision.

Toby Lewis is a Partner and Founding Director of Marquette Properties, one of Australia’s most distinctive and entrepreneurial property investment firms. With over two decades of experience in commercial real estate, Toby has built a reputation for making high-conviction, often contrarian investments—particularly in the office sector—through cycles of uncertainty and change.

Known for his deep relationships in capital markets and an operator’s mindset, Toby has led the acquisition and repositioning of some of Australia’s most prominent commercial assets. His leadership at Marquette reflects a belief in long-term value, active asset management, and the power of alignment between capital and capability.

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Brisbane, Marquette Properties is a private, boutique property investment firm specialising in high-quality Australian commercial real estate, most notably in office and retail sectors. With a strong track record of acquiring, repositioning, and managing complex real estate assets, Marquette operates with a hands-on philosophy that blends institutional discipline with entrepreneurial agility.

The firm manages over $2 billion in assets on behalf of private investors, family offices, and institutional partners. Marquette is best known for its bold moves, such as acquiring landmark towers at times of market pessimism, and for delivering both financial and social returns through active tenant engagement, ESG-led repositioning, and heritage-sensitive renewal.

Disclaimer:
The information in this podcast series is for general financial educational purposes only, should not be considered financial advice and is only intended for wholesale clients. That means the information does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider if the information is appropriate for you and your needs. You should always consult your trusted licensed professional adviser before making any investment decision.

In today’s episode, the partners catch up to talk all things markets from the current volatility through to interest rates, tariffs, and bitcoin. They chat about what they are seeing in markets and the different discussions they are each currently having with clients, including the approach they take to deploying capital in a market like this.

Disclaimer:
The information in this podcast series is for general financial educational purposes only, should not be considered financial advice and is only intended for wholesale clients. That means the information does not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider if the information is appropriate for you and your needs. You should always consult your trusted licensed professional adviser before making any investment decision.