In this interview, Invesdor’s real estate experts — Anna Hoos, Stefan Ertl and Christopher Müller — explain how the market has changed, where new opportunities are emerging, and what investors should pay attention to today.

How do you assess the current development of the real estate market from an investor perspective?

Stefan Ertl: We are coming out of a highly complex market phase that has already had noticeable economic effects, especially within the banking sector. Banks are financing projects much more cautiously today than they did a few years ago and are covering smaller portions of total project costs. At the same time, demand for real estate remains strong across many sectors. This creates a financing gap, as project developers now need to provide more equity to move projects forward.

What developments are currently shaping the real estate market?

Christopher Müller: The real estate market moves in cycles — and we are currently in one of those cycles. However, the current downturn and adjustment phase has been accelerated by an exceptional combination of external shocks: COVID-19, the war in Ukraine, the energy crisis, inflation, and rising interest rates all impacted the market within a short period of time. Even so, the overall market behavior still reflects patterns we know from traditional real estate cycles.

What makes this phase different is the structural transformation emerging from it. Higher financing costs, persistently elevated construction costs, increasing regulatory requirements, and growing political pressure around housing are leading to a new market equilibrium. The market that emerges from this period will look fundamentally different from the one before the crisis.

At the same time, housing remains one of the most urgent topics. Demand for residential space continues to significantly exceed supply. In Germany alone, the government is currently missing its annual target of 400,000 new homes by approximately 100,000 to 150,000 units, while a broader housing shortage of more than one million homes is being discussed. Housing and infrastructure therefore remain structural pillars within a market that is currently repositioning itself.

The post Real Estate as an Investment: Is Now the Right Time to Get Started? first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

1. Keep a Cool Head 

In economically stormy weather, it’s tempting to react emotionally. However, such reactions are not always beneficial. Market downturns are unpleasant but part of the investing journey. Those who act out of fear often miss the recovery that follows shortly after. In times like these, calmness and patience are your greatest allies. 

2. Diversify – stay close to home

Diversification is essential in any market, but especially when volatility is high. By spreading your investments across different sectors, regions, and types of companies, you limit risk and increase your chance of stable returns. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket — build a well-balanced, resilient portfolio. But diversification doesn’t always mean going global. In fact, focusing on stable, locally rooted companies can be a smart move — especially now. 

That’s why Invesdor offers direct investments in Northern European companies — businesses that are not only based here but also generate most of their revenue within the region. These are companies you can understand, support, and grow with. Unlike many stock-listed multinationals with high exposure to global uncertainty, our companies are anchored in local economies and have a strong regional focus. 

What exactly does investment diversification mean?
The article “Investment Diversification Made Simple” explores key principles in more detail, provides concrete examples, and offers helpful context.

3. Look Beyond the Stock Market

One of the advantages of direct investing is the ability to invest in non-listed, local companies — businesses that are not subject to daily stock market fluctuations and short-term investor sentiment. These companies, often rooted in local European communities, tend to have a long-term focus and sustainable growth ambitions. By supporting them, you’re investing in the strength and resilience of the (Northern) European economy. 

4. Invest in Sustainable Companies

Sustainable businesses — those focused not just on profit but also on people and the planet — often prove more resilient in uncertain times. These companies build for the long term, maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, and take a future-focused approach. Especially now, it’s worthwhile to support businesses that aim to make the world a better place. 

In Conclusion: Think Long-Term 

Economic shocks are often temporary. A well-diversified portfolio, on the other hand, is built to last. Don’t get caught up in the noise of the moment. History shows that markets tend to recover after periods of turmoil. At Invesdor, we help you invest directly in companies that matter — close to home, with a long-term vision. Stay calm, stay close, and invest wisely. 

The post Direct investing in turbulent times: stay calm and diversify  first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

Alternative funding solutions increasingly complement traditional funding provided by banks and public support institutions. Alternative funding solutions, such as crowdfinancing, fill the financing gap left by traditional financiers, which particularly benefits fast-growing SMEs and innovative scale-ups who face challenges in.  The Finnish market is small, which means companies have to go abroad at quite an early stage if they want to scale. But scaling internationally requires capital. At the same time, access to capital is limited.  Invesdor plays a key role here by serving an underserved market and giving Finnish companies access to funding alternatives that would otherwise be hard to reach. 

That is what impact means to me—bringing together capital, knowledge, and connections to support sustainable solutions and above all create jobs where people can earn a living. 
That is exactly what I want to build. 

At the same time, the country is considered one of the most digital economies within the EU, offering excellent infrastructure for research and development. With 5.6 million inhabitants, Finland is the least populated of the Nordic states, yet it impresses with high innovative capacity, a well-educated workforce, and an ongoing transformation toward sustainable industries and green energy. Advancing digitalization and the expansion of renewable energy also open up new opportunities for investors. 

Niklas Green has been following this market for many years and understands its particularities like few others. As newly appointed Commercial Director Finland at Invesdor, he now takes on the lead of Invesdor in Finland and plays a key role in developing the Finnish deal flow and expanding the investor base. In this interview, he shares his perspective on the current market situation, his strategic priorities, and the outlook for Finland in a broader European context. 

The Finnish market is undergoing change. How do you currently assess the Finnish market?  

Niklas Green: The Finnish economy has not been growing for 20-years. That’s a fact. But I don’t think the market will get better if we watch and wait. It’s time to take an active role in changing the course. While the economy as a whole has not been growing, we have a lot of companies with great potential. The problem is more often than not that due to a lack of funding, these companies either cannot scale or are sold at an early stage. 

The underserved Finnish capital market offers investors with a lot of opportunities for investment opportunities with an attractive risk-return relationship. We have a lot of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Finland that are innovative and future-oriented with a desire to grow. However, the lack of viable financing opportunities means these companies cannot access the capital they need to invest in growth.  

The reason lies in the structure of the capital markets. Banks in Finland are few and the ones that are there emphasize historical indicators: solid balance sheets with tangible assets, long-standing profit records, and extensive collateral. But these are exactly the things many modern companies cannot provide, as they often have intangible assets, such as software, but limited tangible assets. What matters most is future potential and scalability. After all, returns are paid with future profits, not past profits. 

This creates a structural financing gap between ambitious companies and the conservative requirements of the banks. Closing this gap is not just a challenge—it’s also a great opportunity for everyone involved. 

When traditional bank financing is no longer sufficient, what are the biggest challenges for companies in Finland?  

Niklas Green: Many companies in Finland face a similar issue. As soon as they want to grow or plan larger investments, they encounter limitations in financing. Over the past few years, banks have changed significantly. Their main focus is on risk assessment and requiring collateral that many growth-oriented companies cannot provide. 

One common example is young companies with innovative business models. Since they lack a long track record, they are often unable to secure loans. Only those who can offer personal guarantees or other forms of security may gain access to capital. However, many entrepreneurs are reluctant to take the route of personal guarantees, especially due to past experiences during the banking crisis of the 1990s, when many entrepreneurs lost everything, they had and ended up in life-long indebtedness due to such guarantees. 

Another challenge is the lack of financing options in Finland when it comes to debt capital above a few hundred thousand euros. For amounts up to maybe 200,000 euros, there are multiple options for funding. Beyond that, the financing landscape becomes very limited. This gap affects many businesses and, at the same time, opens up opportunities for alternative solutions and investors who want to serve this need. 

What role do alternative financing models play in Finland, and how does crowdinvesting help close the gap? 

Niklas Green: When banks are cautious, companies need other ways to raise capital. Unfortunately, Finland lacks reliable structures in this area. Especially for debt amounts between 200,000 – 300,000 and 1,000,000 euros, there are very few viable options. As a result, many growing companies with a solid business cannot obtain financing. 

This is where alternative financing steps in as a relevant solution relevant. Through this financing companies gain access to capital when traditional routes, such as bank financing, are unavailable. Crowdfinancing enables a company to pool capital from many individual investors with the help of an intermediate, or financing platform. This creates an alternative form of financing that is appealing to both companies and investors. 

For companies, it unlocks access to capital when traditional funding is unavailable. For investors, it creates an opportunity to earn an attractive return on capital and support Finnish growth companies that often go unnoticed. In this segment, demand for capital is high, while supply is limited. That imbalance creates an attractive risk-return relationship. 

Where do you currently see the most promising investment opportunities in Finland? 

Niklas Green: The IT and tech sectors have always been strong in Finland. However, I find it particularly exciting to look at companies that frequently remain under the radar. These are solid businesses in traditional industries that may not seem flashy, but offer high stability and steady growth. Often referred to as hidden champions by my German colleagues, these companies form the backbone of the Finnish economy. If we could only ensure that these hidden champions would have accessed the working capital they need to grow, we could probably solve a major part of the no-growth puzzle. 

Are there other sectors that are changing or have already changed?  

Niklas Green: Artificial intelligence is a growing sector, closely linked to the rapidly expanding data center industry. Finland has clear advantages here, such as low energy prices and a stable climate. Waste heat from data centers can be reused efficiently, for example to heat buildings using renewable energy. These types of smart solutions highlight the innovation potential of the Finnish market.  

And the defense industry has evolved significantly. Finland shares more than 1,100 kilometers of border with Russia, making national security an important topic. For a long time, the defense sector was considered off-limits for investors. That perception virtually changed overnight, and many now see that defense capabilities can align with ESG criteria. Security is increasingly viewed as an essential part of sustainable development.  

What role does Europe play in financing Finnish companies? 

Niklas Green: Many Finnish companies are well-positioned, but struggle to access traditional financing within Finland. One of the reasons is the small number of banks in the country, most of which take a cautious approach to lending. In this context, access to European capital can make a significant difference. 

Our network allows us to connect Finnish companies with investors from across Europe. These investors bring not only capital, but also valuable experience, networks, and a desire for stable investment opportunities. Because capital availability is low in Finland, interest rates tend to be higher than in many other European markets. This creates attractive returns for investors while keeping risks manageable. 

Why is this particularly interesting for investors? 

Niklas Green: In today’s market environment, it is difficult to find investments that have an attractive return with manageable risk. The Finnish market offers exactly this combination. There is a constant need for financing, particularly among medium-sized businesses, and very little competition when it comes to providing capital. Investors who enter the market early have the opportunity to actively shape Finland’s economic development and secure a strong position in the market. 

What are your priorities as Commercial Director? 

Niklas Green: My top priority is to connect more Finnish companies with the right sources of capital. There are many businesses here with genuine potential, but they struggle to access debt financing. I want to change that. To me, this is more than single transactions for companies in need of capital. I see it as a partnership. 

I want to build a network that works. That includes banks, lenders, local investors, startup hubs, business-focused organizations, and anyone who wants to support the Finnish SME sector. When we bring these players together, we can create a long-term financing ecosystem that can tap into the market opportunity in Finland. 

It is not just about large funds or institutional investors. Often, the most active investors are entrepreneurs who have built or sold businesses and are now ready to support the next generation. I want to connect them with companies that are ready to grow. That is what impact means to me—bringing together capital, knowledge, and connections to support sustainable solutions and above all create jobs where people can earn a living. That is exactly what I want to build. 

What motivates you personally, and what do you want to change? 

Niklas Green:  Technology and AI tools offer enormous potential. We should automate tasks that do not require personal consultation. This frees up time for what really matters—analyzing investment opportunities, advising investors, and closing deals. 

But for me, it’s about more than efficiency. I want to use capital in ways that create attractive returns for everyone; the investor, the company and society as a whole. In a fast-changing world, we need companies that are financially strong and socially responsible.  
 
After all the world we know and the jobs we have is created by the interaction of companies, society and investors. We need to ensure that these companies have access to capital markets because without capital companies cannot function and play their role in a socially responsible economy. The best way to do this is to take an active position in the financing of such companies. This is how we can create meaningful impact; investors earn a return, and companies obtain access to capital. With this capital companies can grow, employ workers, and ultimately have a societal impact. 

Impact Investing: You don’t just want to invest, you want to make a difference?   
Discover opportunities to invest in companies shaping the future.

Meet more of Invesdor’s employees:

From its beginnings in a back room that smelled more of coffee and new beginnings to becoming the leading platform for impact investing in Europe: Interview with Franziska Haeßler

The fascination of venture capital – about innovation, investments and big ideas:
Interview with Lukas Linn

What do chanterelles, PowerPoint presentations and personalisation have in common? About campaigns, AI trends, clear strategies and creativity: 
Interview with Maximilian von Aufschnaiter

The post Niklas Green appointed Commercial Director Nordics: Insights on the Finnish market and investor outlook first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

Those early days sparked an artistic spirit that still guides Maximilian von Aufschnaiter, a Marketing Manager for the DACH market at Invesdor Group and our guest in this edition of #meettheteam. 

In this interview, Maximilian shares what he values most about his work at Invesdor and reflects on how his years in South Tyrol and his life in Berlin shape the way he approaches marketing, blending calm reflection with urban energy and creativity with strategy. 

What sparked your interest in marketing in the first place? 

I grew up surrounded by creativity. My mother, an artist and graphic designer, and my father, a photographer, transformed our living room into a vibrant mix of an art studio and a photo lab. Brushes, colors, and cameras were part of my everyday life, and as kids, we spent countless hours drawing and painting together. That environment sparked an early passion for creativity in me. 

Years later, I discovered marketing through its digital side and realized it was the ideal way to blend my creative roots with my growing interest in strategy and systems. At first, I was focused on making things look visually appealing, but as time went on, my curiosity about why things work took over. This shift led me to dive deeper into the strategic and data-driven aspects of marketing. Now, I focus on building smart systems and automating processes to make campaigns more effective and impactful. 

Are you more of a “big-picture visionary” or a “details-matter” kind of person? 

“Big picture visionary” sounds like a big label. What I would say about myself is that I tend to focus more on the bigger picture, especially when it comes to strategy. I like to understand the overall direction and goals because if you know where you want to go it makes everything else clearer. But knowing the direction is not enough you also have to set things up properly and work through the details to get there. For me it is a mix of both keeping the focus on strategy while making sure the steps to get there are developed and executed well. So I would say I lean a little more toward the strategic side but I am definitely hands on when it comes to making sure it actually happens. 

What marketing trends excite you the most right now? 

In the last year, so much has changed in how we work. New technologies and opportunities have come up, especially around automation tools, no code solutions, and the whole AI sector in general. What I’m currently focused on is AI agents and hyper personalization. One of the hardest things in business is that there is never enough time for actual strategy. There are always a bunch of small repetitive tasks that eat up your day. What I like about AI agents is that they are really useful, they can handle those tasks for you, link up different tools, and adjust things on the fly based on data. That gives you more space to focus on the bigger stuff. 

The second trend I’m currently looking deeper into is hyper personalization. It’s really about showing people only what they actually care about. Instead of sending the same message to everyone, you use data and AI to make the message fit each person. This means looking at things like what they’ve done before, what they’re interested in, or what they need right now. The message then feels more relevant and personal, which makes people more likely to listen and engage. 

What’s your favorite part of being a Marketing Manager at Invesdor Group? 

My favorite part of being in marketing at Invesdor is definitely the culture of collaboration and trust. I really appreciate having the freedom to take ownership of my projects, come up with new ideas, and test them out. What makes it even better is working closely with colleagues from different countries and departments. It gives me a broader perspective, I’m always learning something new, and I get to see how marketing connects with the bigger picture of the company. 

Having lived in both South Tyrol and Berlin, would you say you’re more alpine calm or Berlin energy when it comes to your creative process? 

“I would say both the calm of the Alps and the energy of Berlin,” he reflects. Having lived in South Tyrol for a few years I learned the importance of slowing down and taking time to reflect whether it is hiking in the forest or simply enjoying nature’s quiet. I still visit South Tyrol regularly to see my mum, where I recharge and enjoy being in nature, which I sometimes miss in Berlin. 

At the same time, Berlin’s urban energy is very inspiring. Being around driven people and a fast-moving environment pushes me to stay focused, act quickly, and keep up with new ideas and opportunities. I also love trying new things and finding inspiration, which is something you find more of in Berlin than in South Tyrol. “So, I appreciate both worlds,” he smiles. 

You have a free weekend and no plans. What’s your ideal way to spend it? 

“It really depends on where I am, Berlin or South Tyrol,” he grins. 

If I am in Berlin, I would book a small cabin at Raus for the weekend. I would spend time in the kitchen trying out new recipes and enjoying simple meals. Afternoons might be for sitting outside sipping coffee and soaking up the quiet away from the usual city noise. The evenings are perfect for reading or just relaxing under the open sky. 

When I am in South Tyrol, the day usually starts with a hike through the forest, keeping an eye out for chanterelle mushrooms. Later I would go for a swim in the Kalterer See. As the day ends I would gather with friends around the stove, cooking a mushroom pan, sharing stories, together. 

What’s a quote that inspires Maximilian?

Whether he is cooking with friends in South Tyrol or testing new ideas at Invesdor in Berlin, Maximilian brings the same mix of curiosity, creativity, and strategy to everything he does. His perspective adds a unique voice to our team, and we’re excited to continue sharing more stories like his in the upcoming editions of our #meettheteam series.

Read an interview with Franziska Haeßler here:

The fascination of venture capital – about innovation, investments, and big ideas:
Interview with Lukas Linn

The post Between alpine calm and Berlin buzz: Meet Maximilian von Aufschnaiter  first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

Born and raised in southwest Germany, Lukas has lived and worked across international innovation hubs like London, Copenhagen, Vienna, and the San Francisco Bay Area before landing in Berlin, a city he now calls home.

In this interview, he shares what excites him about working with early-stage companies, how California shaped his perspective, and why wellness help him reset after long days of venture building.

What excites you most about working with early-stage companies?

The energy, actually! Early-stage companies are driven by innovation, bold ideas, and a genuine desire to reshape the world for the better. I am inspired by the visionary thinking and passion that founders usually bring to the table. It is impressing that start-ups and scale-ups are able to spot trends early and challenge the status quo. And beyond that, the entrepreneurial spirit I encounter daily motivates me personally – it is a constant reminder of why I am in this field and fuels my own ambition to build something big one day!

What’s been one of your most rewarding moments at Invesdor so far?

Over the past 1.5 years at Invesdor Group, I have experienced many exciting & memorable moments. I really enjoy working with smart colleagues from different countries, forward-thinking founding teams, and visionary investors who ask the right questions.

But one of the most fulfilling milestones has been proving – through our recently launched business section in DACH and my newly created role – that impact investment platforms in Germany (and Europe, anyways!) can invest real equity. This is just the beginning of something bigger: enabling scale-ups to access growth capital in exchange for shares through an investment platform like ours. That is something truly new for the German-speaking market – and I am happy to help shape the new direction and drive this shift!

What first got you into the world of Venture Capital?

I have always been fascinated by start-ups, investments, and innovation. That interest guided my academic path – from writing my bachelor’s thesis on start-ups to pursuing a master’s in innovation management, combined with working student roles and projects in the European start-up ecosystem.

A key moment was my exchange semester in California – the world’s innovation capital. The experience was incredibly inspiring: from top-tier university lectures and professors to guest speakers like VCs and serial entrepreneurs. Company visits to tech giants like Airbnb, DocuSign, and Uber – once small start-ups themselves – made innovation feel tangible and real change possible.

Returning to Europe, I was eager to bring that mindset and inspiration back with me. I found the perfect opportunity for my master’s thesis and later a full-time position for several years at Europe’s first PropTech accelerator and the leading innovation platform in real estate. The role as Scouting & Investment Manager combined my passion for innovation, technology, investment, and the built world.

Now at Invesdor Group in Berlin, I am heading the equity funding efforts for the DACH market – right at the intersection of start-ups, scale-ups, and investors. It is exactly where I see most potential when driving innovation forward: inside the start-up- & VC-ecosystem, helping outstanding innovators enter their next phase in their journey.

What motivated you to leave your hometown and make the move to Berlin, and how has the transition been so far?

Before moving to Berlin, I had the chance to live, study, and work in some amazing metropolises like London, Vienna, Copenhagen, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Just before COVID hit, I returned to Germany and spent most of my time between Mannheim (with my family) and Frankfurt (for work). After almost four great years, I felt it was time for a new chapter, in a place where all my interests come together: a big, international city, exciting opportunities, great people, and one of Europe’s leading start-up hubs. Berlin basically ticked all the boxes.

The transition has been going really well, and honestly, it has been a lot of fun. A few close friends were already living here, which made the early days – including the no-apartment phase (he laughs) – much easier. Since then, I have met a lot of new people, had a great start at Invesdor with awesome colleagues, and joined more business events than I can count. And thanks to my constant curiosity (or slight FOMO), I have discovered a lot of what the city has to offer – though my Berlin to-do list somehow keeps getting longer… (he smiles)

What’s your favorite way to disconnect after a long day?

Definitely sports and wellness! After a long day (or short weekend… he grins), there is nothing better than a good workout, sometimes even with friends, followed by some real relaxation in the wellness area. Ideally with strong sauna infusions or a quiet steam bath. I take my sauna sessions very seriously (he smiles) – yes, I know the exact schedule in detail and the sauna masters know me quite well. It’s the perfect way to reset and recharge!

What’s a quote that inspires Lukas?

“Work hard, play hard.” Life is about balance – don’t let the pursuit of success make you forget the joy of living.

Lukas’ think-outside-the-box mindset and passion for building bridges between innovators & investors is as clear as his curiosity for new challenges (and Berlin’s endless to-do list). With his energy and willingness to question the status quo, he is helping shape the future of equity funding at Invesdor, one venture at a time.

The post Start-ups, Serendipity, and Sauna Sessions: Meet Lukas Linn first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

In this interview, she shares honest insights into what it was like in the early days, what makes great leadership in a startup, and what she might be doing if finance hadn’t come calling.

Looking back at the early days, did you ever imagine Invesdor would become what it is today?

No, I didn’t exactly think Invesdor would one day become Europe’s go-to platform for impact investing. We started out as a small German startup with big dreams and the goal of reshaping SME financing.

I still remember nervously sitting in the ‘back room’ of one of our shareholders, probably never meant for actual work, waiting for our very first project to launch. There were maybe five of us, and everyone did a bit of everything: marketing before lunch, customer support after, and maybe cleaning the coffee machine in between.

Today, we’ve grown into a European company with a strong presence in four core markets and real experts in every area. The leap from local startup to international business came with a few bumps, but that mix of chaos, ambition, great people, and just enough caffeine during nightshifts (she smiles) helped us grow into who we are today.

What advice would you give to someone joining a startup today?

Be prepared for the unexpected, seriously. The most important skill in a startup isn’t coding, pitching, or even making great coffee (although that helps). It’s being able to adapt when the unexpected hits. I know that sounds like a motivational poster, but it’s true.

Thinking flexibly, being open to feedback, and never ever uttering the words “but we’ve always done it this way” is exactly the mindset you need in a startup. And that’s how we still work at Invesdor today.

Change is the only constant. Yes, Heraclitus said it first, but we live it daily. And honestly, that’s what I love most about working at Invesdor. No two days are alike. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, surprise! Something new lands in your inbox. Everyone at Invesdor has embraced this mindset in their own way. It’s what enables us to push boundaries together, keep each other motivated, and achieve results for our customers that others would have given up on ages ago.

Obviously, it can be intense sometimes, but routine is far more draining for me than change will ever be.

What’s a leadership lesson you always carry with you?

Listen carefully! No skill is as underrated as genuine listening. Really, most problems don’t arise because people don’t talk, but because others don’t actually listen.

Usually, people tell you exactly what’s bothering them, what they need, or how you could help. It’s all there, loud and clear. You just have to resist the urge to start composing a clever reply in your head before they’ve even finished their sentence.

Sure, leadership is also about balancing interests and finding compromises, just like in relationships, family dinners, or group holidays. But making your team feel heard, seen, and genuinely taken seriously? That’s the core of good leadership, at least in my book.

And honestly, this isn’t just about the office. It applies just as much when you’re grilling with friends (“yes, your tofu sausage matters too”), in a relationship (“yes, I am listening this time”), or dealing with a grumpy government clerk.

If you take a moment to really listen and show a bit of empathy, most problems dissolve faster than you can say “Was that so hard?”

If you weren’t working in finance, what would you be doing?

Sometimes I joke in the office that if I weren’t working at Invesdor, I’d probably be in the secret service (she laughs), you know, trench coat, sunglasses, mysterious phone calls, the full package.

Because honestly, if there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s finding missing information and connecting the dots. No matter how well something is hidden, give me a hint and a cup of coffee, and I’ll track it down.

Maybe it’s no coincidence that I have a soft spot for spy movies and political thrillers. The mix of classified intel, shadowy alliances, and high-stakes decision-making? That’s totally my thing, minus the car chases. Usually.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?

Dr. Oppenheimer. I was deeply moved by the recent film, especially his inner conflict between scientific innovation and moral responsibility. As someone who also strives to act with good intentions, I’d love to discuss how decisions can ripple through a lifetime… ideally over a glass of wine.

What’s a quote that inspires you?

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Our conversation with Franziska is a reminder that startups grow on passion, adaptability, and strong leadership. Stay tuned for more stories from the people behind Invesdor, the ones making impact investing happen every day.

The post From a small German startup to a leading European platform: Meet Franziska Haeßler first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

1. What forms of securities are there and how reliable are they? 

Typical forms are guarantees and collateral such as 

• mortgages on land or pledges of machinery, 
• assignments of receivables or 
• floating charges.   

The importance of security arrangements depends on the investment model: in non-subordinated projects, they play a more important role than in subordinated projects, where security arrangements are usually not possible. 

In addition, we usually cannot check the value of the collateral or the economic capacity of the guarantor and the value of the collateral or the guarantee can fluctuate. As a result, there is a risk that, in the worst case, investors will not receive any repayments despite the ordering and realisation of collateral or guarantees in the event of the failure of the project. 

We therefore recommend: Read the key investment information sheet carefully for each project. It contains information on whether security arrangements are provided in the project.

2. Examples of securities from practice 

What collateral has been used in various Invesdor campaigns in the past? The following examples from different industries and countries show how different these can look: 

Megin (medical technology): Second rank floating charge on the assets of the project owner.  
(https://www.invesdor.de/projekte/c244d249-74e3-4d89-a147-3b479f5cc49d#/)  

Bamboologic (Agriculture): A mortgage on a plot of land in Portugal serves as security.  
(https://www.invesdor.de/projekte/b57d633d-ee1c-49ba-8f44-ec75f95f25d9#/) 

The form of security arrangement strongly depends on the individual case. It is worth taking a close look at which values have been specifically deposited and how plausible their usability appears in an emergency

3. From subordinate to securable models 

In the past, Invesdor in Germany was mostly limited by law to brokering qualified subordinated loans. In the case of subordinated loans, investors are only served in the event of insolvency after all creditors have received their money – a significantly higher risk. In the case of qualified subordinated loans, investors have even less chance of enforcing their claims in the event of non-payment by the company, even before any insolvency. 

Today, we mainly finance with non-subordinated financial instruments, in which investors hold a stronger legal position. These models allow us, where appropriate and possible, to include collateral/guarantee that can potentially reduce the risk of default (the actual value of a security ultimately depends on the proceeds from the realisation of a security). 

Investors should therefore check carefully with each investment whether and which security arrangement exists and what rank the respective financing has. 

How can I judge the security arrangement of a project myself? 

Read the issue terms, the key investment information sheet and information on the campaign page carefully. Check what kind of securities are mentioned and whether it seems sufficient to you from the investor’s point of view. 

Conclusion: Security arrangements for investments

Security arrangements in crowdfunding are complex and can never be assessed across the board. What we do at Invesdor: create transparency, clearly identify risks and always try to achieve the best possible level of security for our investors. Each campaign contains information on possible security arrangements. And we are constantly working to make them it even more understandable. 

 
Find out now about our current investment projects and discover sustainable investments that match your values.

The post How safe is my investment? Overview of security arrangements at Invesdor  first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

What is impact investing?

Impact investing should not be mistaken for charity. Impact investing is a financial strategy that aims to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. Unlike traditional investing, where the primary focus is on maximizing profits, impact investing intentionally targets investments that address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.

Impact Europe declared in November 2024 that the European private impact investing market has reached €190bn. At Invesdor we can see that the interest from private investors to choose impact investment opportunities is on a steady rise across all markets.

How you can do impact investing at Invesdor

Invesdor is one of the leading impact investment platforms in Europe, that offers opportunities for individuals and institutions to invest in impactful cases and benefit financially while doing good. By connecting investors with innovative companies that align with ESG principles and contribute to the SDGs, we facilitate investments that support sustainable development. Learn more about how we implement ESGs and SDGs.

What to look for on Invesdor’s platform

• Look for the Impact Investment -label on the funding round’s presentation page.
• Look at the Impact listed on the project presentation page. We show you on the funding round’s presentation page which SDGs the company is contributing to.
• Choose funding rounds that align with your investment strategy and causes that are important to you, whether it be green energy, combating water scarcity or recycling waste materials to new purposes.

Impact funding rounds at Invesdor

Invesdor has had several impact funding rounds over the years. The ESGs and SDGs are important and are considered a central part of the due diligence process.

ESGs and SDGs are at the core of Invesdor’s funding round selection process

Invesdor’s impact investing framework is deeply rooted in ESG and SDG principles.

ESG Integration: All funding rounds listed on Invesdor undergo evaluation based on environmental, social, and governance criteria. This ensures that investments align with sustainable practices and ethical governance standards.

• Environmental: Projects are assessed for their impact on reducing emissions, promoting clean energy, and conserving resources.
• Social: Investments target initiatives that promote community well-being, equality, and social justice.
• Governance: Companies are evaluated for transparency, accountability, and ethical management.

SDG Alignment: Invesdor aligns its investment opportunities with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. For example:

• Windpark Friesland contributes to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
• E-Heat supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
• RiverRecycle advances SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

What investors need to know

Impact investing offers a powerful way to align financial goals with a desire to make a difference in the world. At Invesdor, investors can access a range of impactful opportunities, from clean energy projects to innovative waste management solutions. With a focus on ESG criteria and SDG alignment, Invesdor provides a transparent and purpose-driven platform for sustainable investments.

By choosing impact investing, you’re not only pursuing financial returns but also contributing to a better future for our planet – this is what we call double return.

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Why is now the right time to expand into the loan market?

The Finnish loan market is undergoing a transformation. Many companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, have faced challenges in accessing traditional bank financing. This is largely due to stricter banking regulations that have limited companies’ ability to secure the funding they need. At the same time, private investors are looking for new and diversified investment opportunities.

An international perspective on lending

At Invesdor, we’ve been active in international markets for a long time. Now, we are addressing a gap in the Finnish market. Finnish loan products have not previously been easily accessible to Finnish private investors.

Megin’s funding round has already generated significant interest from both Finnish and international investors. The round has been open for just one day, and the company has already raised over €500,000.

Since early 2023, Invesdor has provided investors with opportunities to diversify their portfolios with European companies. Now, we are enabling Finnish companies to offer bonds not only to domestic investors but also to international ones.

Competitive returns for investors

The weak performance of the Helsinki Stock Exchange has driven investors to look for new ways to grow their portfolios in a challenging economic environment. The loan market can offer attractive alternatives with competitive interest rates. For private investors, the challenges have often been the accessibility of loan investments, high minimum investments, or high fees associated with funds.

Through Invesdor, investors can decide for themselves which companies, industries, and countries they want to invest in. We have intentionally kept the minimum investment for funding rounds as low as possible to ensure broad participation. This also enables investors to effectively diversify their portfolios through our platform. You can join Megin Oy’s funding round with as little as €250.

The post Finally, a Finnish Bond Offering! first appeared on Invesdor - Blog.

It is in Invesdor’s DNA to support companies on their growth journey and enable private investors to invest directly in companies they believe in. We love to witness our portfolio companies achieve remarkable milestones and celebrate alongside our investors. Here are some recent highlights from four of our portfolio companies:

RiverRecycle was recognized as the Most Impactful Company in Finland 2024 by ARVO ry (Finnish Association for Social Enterprises), a testament to their groundbreaking work in creating sustainable solutions for cleaner waterways. RiverRecycle gathered €1.2M from 496 investors in May 2024.

PeelPioneers, known for their eco-friendly food waste solutions, has claimed spot 72 on Sifted 75 Fastest Growing Startups in Europe. A fantastic achievement for a company reshaping sustainability in the food industry. PeelPioneers gathered €3.5M from 1,298 investors in September 2024.

Koite Health and Parking Energy have been listed on Deloitte’s Fast50 Finland 2024 ranking, securing spots at 22 and 30 respectively. This highlights their impressive growth and appreciation for their technological innovations. Koite Health gathered €1.4M from 380 investors in October 2023 and Parking Energy gathered €1M in July 2018 from 202 investors.

Heeros, a pioneer in digital financial administration, has received a public tender offer from Accountor Software. Heeros completed their first funding round with Invesdor in 2015 followed by their IPO with Invesdor as the suscription platform one year later in 2016. This generated a 15 % return within 12 months for the investors.

These milestones highlight the incredible growth journey of our portfolio companies, and we’re honored to have been part of their story. We can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve next!

Sign up to our newsletter to hear the latest news and have a look at our open investment opportunities and help build tomorrow’s success stories.

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