RTW: Investing across Healthcare - [Business Breakdowns, EP.184]

Today we are breaking down healthcare, one of the most impactful sectors in the world, yet one of the most unique for investors. My guests are Rod Wong, founder and CIO of RTW Investments, and Stephanie Sirota, chief business officer of RTW Investments.

RTW was founded in 2009 and operates a sector-specific strategy in healthcare. We discuss the evolution of their model, which feels particularly important given how much it aligns with the healthcare investment process. 

We cover the various phases of drug investments, the unique dynamics of founders and team building, and we get into some of the more philosophical discussions around regulation in the industry. Please enjoy this breakdown on healthcare.

Editor-in-Chief application here.

For the full show notes, transcript, and links to the best content to learn more, check out the episode page here.

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Show Notes

(00:00:00) Welcome to Business Breakdowns

(00:07:50) Phases of Healthcare Product Lifecycle

(00:09:03) Challenges and Opportunities in Biotech

(00:14:01) Investment Strategies in Healthcare

(00:16:47) The Evolution of RTW and Team Structure

(00:20:11) Public and Private Market Dynamics

(00:26:24) Gene Therapy: A Case Study

(00:33:08) Future of Healthcare Innovation

(00:46:11) Global Biotech Landscape: US Dominance and International Opportunities

(00:48:29) Big Pharma Winners and Losers: A Decade in Review

(00:51:11) Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on Drug Development

(00:54:55) Regulatory Changes and Their Impact on Innovation

(01:10:08) M&A in Biotech: A Critical Component for Success

(01:15:57) GLP-1 Drugs: Market Impact and Future Prospects

(01:20:38) Current Biotech Market: Opportunities and Future Outlook