Episode 04/ Full Interview: Furuzonfar Zehni on the echoes of history along the reimagined Silk Road

Furuzonfar Zehni is an entrepreneur and investor, creating and connecting local ecosystems to global ones, where the influx of diversity, new knowledge and ultimately, value can be magnified. At Fresco Capital, a global venture capital firm, Furuzonfar is involved in all aspects of investment and operations. With a portfolio of 60 promising technologies spanning holistic wellness, empowered workforce and sustainable loops, Fresco’s core mission is investing in the intersection of people and technology. Prior to Fresco Capital, Furuzonfar built and scaled businesses in data analytics, wealth management and investment advisory. He started his career with Ernst & Young.Furuzonfar graduated from the University of Hong Kong with a BA in economics and finance (with honours). He is a TEDx license holder, a mentor for the Laudato Si Challenge, a mentor for the Founder Institute, and is an active member of the Hong Kong University and St. John’s College Alumni Club. He is a fellow of the Shahidi Foundation and is passionate about initiatives that develop cultural diversity and economic empowerment. Recorded on January 12, 2021.Show Notes4:11 FZ on global seed investing 5:50 FZ on how his unique upbringing prepared him for this relatively young field8:01 FZ on the cultural differences between the Middle East and Northern Europe12:44 FZ on what prompted him to shift his focus to Asia and Hong Kong and first impressions 15:12 FZ on the Fresco approach to investing—what are the lenses they use18:30 FZ on the nexus between culture and venture capital, with specific examples21: 46 FZ on the cultural differences among their portfolio companies in various markets28:00 FZ on the history of venture capital and whether there are equivalent forms of financing elsewhere32:46 FZ on whether there is a regional identity in Central Asia34:23 FZ on the ethnic diversity of Central Asia 37:30 FZ on the historical economic importance and unique socio-political organization of Central Asia 40:40 FZ on the golden age of Central Asia48:13 FZ on how Central Asia can avoid the pitfalls of over reliance on natural resources50:26 FZ on the modern day economies of Central Asia: strengths and weaknesses54:07 FZ Central Asia’s relationship with its neighbouring superpowers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.