Syndication Strategies in Venture Capital Networks

Abstract

Empirical evidence shows that venture capitalists syndicate to finance start-ups. This paper focuses on the role of the social network generated by these syndication operations. We consider the links developed between venture capitalists, through co-investment rounds, and we study their relationships both through network and econometric analyses. We first demonstrate that the syndication network is not random. Secondly, we show that the different assortativities (degree, spatial, industrial) are positive, suggesting that venture capitalists tend to co-invest with their peers. Thirdly, we measure the influence of different proximities (spatial, national and industrial) on the collaborations between the different players. National and industrial proximity have a strong impact on the determination of links. Finally, we provide evidence that past partners are preferred for future syndication, even if new links do appear regularly.