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b'This week we\\u2019re joined by Alex Macpherson, Managing Director of Octopus Ventures. With 53 companies in its portfolio (including successes like Zoopla, Swiftkey and Graze.com), and around $850M in management, Octopus is one of the European ecosystem\\u2019s leading players, backing teams across multiple stages and sectors.\\n\\nAlex transitioned into venture after 11 years as a derivatives trader in the City \\u2013 prior to which he sold personal and business computers after leaving school (and even worked in the circus). In 2000 he founded Katalyst, a private investor group making investments into early stage, start up and expansion stage companies. Over seven years, Alex led the business as CEO until its sale to Octopus in August 2007 \\u2013 upon which he joined the firm.\\n\\nSpeaking to Seedcamp partner Carlos Espinal, Alex discusses the ways his years as a City trader shaped his approach to investing\\u2013 including learning the lesson that the \\u2018first cut is the cheapest\\u2019, meaning investors and entrepreneurs should know when to cut their losses or shift strategy.\\n\\nReferencing some of Octopus\\u2019s biggest success such as Zoopla, Alex explains how he looks for teams that combine execution with vision and why, given that the difference between success and failure is \\u2018wafer thin\\u2019, backing exceptional founders is essential.\\n\\nShow notes: \\nCarlos Medium: sdca.mp/2entVR3\\nSeedcamp: www.seedcamp.com\\nOctopus Ventures: www.octopusventures.com\\n\\nRelated bio links: \\nCarlos: linkedin.com/in/carloseduardoespinal / twitter.com/cee\\nAlex: linkedin.com/in/alexandermacpherson'