You founded Fidelio back in 2010: did you have a clear vision of what you wanted to achieve?

We’re not looking to find the model of Fidelio – to do so is a fear of mine. The world is ever-changing, and we need to evolve with it. My vision back in 2010 was to create an environment where we encourage each other to think big and bold. We continue to deliver on that, reflected in the investments we make. Our mandate allows us to envision the world 20 years from now, and that keeps us alert.

What would you say makes Fidelio Capital different from other investment firms?

I believe it is the idea to combine the professional and active ownership of PE-funds with a real entrepreneurial, flexible and long term approach. We are far more visionary in our approach than private equity typically is.

Can you give an example?
There are several examples, but to mention one, let’s look at Odevo. The idea behind Odevo started with a brainstorming session back in 2014. We were discussing fragmented and non-cyclical industries with sleepy competition. We started looking at the management of homeowner associations and realised that that the industry lacked a strong player capable of investing into disruptive technologies. It took us four years from the initial idea to the first acquisitions. Having set the model for synergistic acquisitions and scaling with technology in Sweden, our deal team at Odevo realised we could replicate the model basically everywhere in the world, and we decided to expand Odevo to Finland, the UK and the US. Odevo has grown and multiplied in size year by year since the launch of the initial platform back in 2018 and is now the only transatlantic player in the world with leading positions across Europe and the US. As we dream big, we believe that we over time could expand into many more countries and regions.

It sounds like celebrations are in order!

Yes, I do think it is important to celebrate the success and the team, but success comes in different shapes and forms for different people. Personally, I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’m happiest, not in the end and in the celebratory moment, but while on the journey towards something yet unknown. It is truly the adventure that keeps me focused and excited.

What trends and industries are particularly interesting for Fidelio right now?

I don’t want to give away any company secrets here, so let’s talk about something fairly generic: AI. I think it is as disruptive as the adoption of electricity was some 100 years ago. AI will transform almost every aspect of our way of living and working. When ChatGPT was launched in November 2022, we decided to put all our investment activities on hold for some months. We felt that we first needed to form a view on how various industries will be impacted going forward. We are still spending a great deal of time and capacity on trying to figure this out. I’d say we’re getting wiser every week and are continuously being challenged by what we learn. Luckily, the Fidelio team is always hungry for new knowledge, the next investment opportunity, and those game-changing aha moments; and we have the luxury of being able to wait until the right moment arises. This is exactly the type of situation our long- term and flexible mandate is meant for. If we play this right, we have the chance of a lifetime ahead of us.

It sounds like you are quite excited about what’s to come?

Indeed, very! In 2025, Fidelio turns 15 years as a company - but I believe we are only getting started and that we have the most exciting part ahead of us!