Exclusive Q&A w/ Vladimir Malakchi, CEO and Managing Partner at Xanada Investments

From a C-level perspective, what inspired the founding of Xanada Investments and how does it distinguish itself from other investment firms?

Xanada Investments was founded with the goal of creating a unique, high-value investment ecosystem. We wanted to build an investment firm that provides not just capital, but a thriving, interconnected community of visionary leaders and entrepreneurs.

What sets Xanada Investments apart is our holistic approach. We don’t just invest in businesses; we build an ecosystem where each venture supports and enhances the others, promoting mutual growth. We focus on creating long-term value and success for our partners.

We offer more than funding—we provide expert guidance, operational support, and access to our extensive global network. This helps startups navigate challenges, scale effectively, and reach new markets.

What specific projects does Xanada Investments focus on?

We believe in creating a diverse and interconnected ecosystem. Instead of limiting ourselves to specific sectors like casinos or providers, or geos, we invest in a wide range of projects. This diversity helps eliminate internal competition and fosters a more collaborative environment.

We see our investments as “smart money” – funds that bring more than just capital. Investing in a variety of companies allows us to offer tailored support and valuable insights to each one. This approach not only broadens our horizons but also ensures that each project benefits from our extensive network and expertise.

We seek leaders and companies who share our values of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. By embracing a holistic investment strategy and fostering a community-driven approach, we aim to build a thriving, interconnected community where every venture has the potential to succeed.

What strategies does Xanada Investments employ to help startups scale and enter new markets?

We use a holistic approach based on our core values of collaboration, innovation, and excellence to help startups scale and enter new markets.

First, we provide strategic operational support tailored to each startup’s needs, refining business models, optimizing operations, and developing go-to-market strategies. Our deep market insights help startups navigate fluctuations and seize opportunities.

Our extensive global network connects startups with industry leaders, potential partners, and key market players, facilitating strategic alliances and new opportunities. We also enhance startups’ visibility through comprehensive PR and media strategies, ensuring they gain the attention and credibility needed to enter new markets.

By combining these strategies, we not only offer financial backing but also provide the strategic support, resources, and visibility startups need to scale successfully and enter new markets.

What do you look for in potential investment opportunities and partners?

We prioritize the potential of the people behind the projects. Our ideal partners are those who have experience building businesses, regardless of whether successful or not. Experience in successful companies and a deep understanding of their market are crucial traits we look for.

Preparation is key. We value those who present well-structured portfolios and comprehensive project presentations. This initial impression is a great start for our deeper evaluation process, where we focus on several critical aspects:

First, we assess the team dynamics, looking at their cohesion, expertise, and experience. A strong, knowledgeable, and well-coordinated team is essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success. We also seek individuals who not only understand their market but can also anticipate trends and navigate market fluctuations effectively.

We are drawn to visionary leaders who bring innovative ideas to the table. Their ability to think outside the box and drive industry changes is a significant factor. The project must also align with our broader ecosystem. We seek investments that complement and enhance our existing portfolio, fostering collaboration and mutual growth.

How do you see Xanada Investments evolving in the next year?

In the next year, we’re planning to invest in about 10-15 projects, with each investment averaging around $1.5 million. Our main focus will be structuring deals and getting everything in place. We want to establish solid processes, get to know the key players in our field, refine our strategy, and build a strong network.

We’re also looking to create a diverse portfolio and boost their visibility through smart PR and media engagements. A lot of startups struggle with media relations, PR, and events, so we’re going to connect with media outlets and PR firms to give these startups the exposure they need.

On top of that, we plan to sponsor and participate in events like startup pitches and industry conferences to help promote our portfolio companies. We’re also excited about creating our own competitions and events to support and showcase innovative startups.