There’s a quiet revolution reshaping how investors build wealth—and it’s not about chasing headlines or hype.

Why are fewer companies going public, and what does that mean for you? What’s really happening under the surface in private credit and equity markets?

In this episode, Rex Berger, Private Wealth Advisor of Generation Capital Advisors, sits down with Steve Kolano, Chief Investment Officer at Integrated Partners, to break down the realities of public versus private investing, why simplification beats complexity, and how private markets are evolving. Together, they unpack what it takes to construct portfolios designed to last for generations.

Key Takeaways:

• Why most alpha should come from tax and estate planning rather than trying to beat the market [00:10:14]
• How their “core and explore” philosophy balances efficient index investing with selectively vetted alternatives [00:13:20]
• The dramatic drop in publicly listed companies since 2000 and the resulting rise of private market opportunities [00:14:40]
• How market conditions and rising interest rates are forcing private equity firms to focus on long-term operational value over quick exits [00:19:38]
• The importance of manager selection and due diligence in navigating the private credit and equity space [00:22:00]
• And more!

Resources:

• Generation Capital Advisors

Connect with Rex Berger: 

• LinkedIn: Rex Berger
• LinkedIn: Generation Capital Advisors

Connect with Steve Kolano: 

• LinkedIn: Steve Kolano
• Integrated Partners

About Our Guest: 

Steve Kolano brings a deep passion for both financial markets and people to his role, ensuring that every investment strategy he oversees is custom-built to align with each client’s personal vision of success.

He understands that financial markets are complex, dynamic systems, constantly adapting and evolving. People are no different. Each investor carries unique beliefs, perspectives, and goals that shift over time.

Steve’s mission is rooted in understanding the individual first. What drives them? What informs their decision-making? What is their “why”? By uncovering these insights, Steve crafts investment portfolios that are not only tailored to the person but also integrated with their broader financial plans and strategies.

Throughout his career, Steve has come to embrace a critical truth: there is no magic bullet in investing. No secret formula. No one-size-fits-all portfolio.

What sets Steve apart is his process, beginning with a deep understanding of the client and then applying the art and science of investing in pursuit of their specific goals.

In the end, Steve believes the closest thing to a magic bullet in investing is a well-designed, disciplined plan—and the commitment to stick with it.