一级市场变形记：各方都在“渡劫”

Core Insights - The article discusses the systemic challenges faced by the venture capital industry in China, highlighting the paradox of a seemingly recovering macro environment contrasted with the harsh realities experienced by individual entrepreneurs and investors [12][22]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - The case of an entrepreneur, referred to as Mr. Li, illustrates the personal and professional consequences of unfavorable investment agreements, particularly the "redemption rights" clause that imposes personal liability [8][21]. - There is a significant shift in the operational model of General Partners (GPs) from "raising, investing, managing, and exiting" to "raising, investing, managing, returning," indicating a focus on returning capital rather than generating returns [14][20]. - The management fees for funds have drastically decreased, with some funds now charging between 0.5% to 1.5%, reflecting a challenging fundraising environment [16][18]. Group 2: Structural Issues - The dominance of government-led funds, which account for 81.2% of total Limited Partner (LP) commitments, has fundamentally altered the investment landscape, shifting GPs' focus from maximizing returns for LPs to ensuring the preservation of state assets [20][21]. - The requirement for personal guarantees from founders has become commonplace, with over 80% of domestic venture capital agreements including such clauses, which undermines the principle of shared risk in venture capital [21][22]. - The investment decision-making process has shifted from market-driven logic to government-influenced criteria, emphasizing return on investment in specific regions rather than the inherent value of projects [26][27]. Group 3: Market Adaptation - Dollar funds are struggling to adapt to the new environment, facing challenges in fundraising and communication with local LPs due to language barriers and differing expectations [24]. - Renminbi funds have shifted their focus from traditional investment questions to those centered around return on investment and project viability in specific locations, reflecting a broader change in investment logic [26][27]. - State-owned investment institutions face unique pressures, including mandatory co-investment requirements and the burden of accountability for both losses and gains, complicating their operational landscape [28][29]. Group 4: Systemic Deficiencies - The reliance on management fees rather than performance-based compensation has created a misalignment of incentives, leading GPs to prioritize fundraising over effective investment [30][31]. - The risk-sharing model is skewed, with GPs benefiting from successful investments while founders bear the brunt of failures, creating a high-risk environment for entrepreneurs [31][32]. - The contradiction between the need for certainty in government policies and the inherent uncertainty of innovation hampers the growth of truly innovative enterprises [35][36]. Group 5: Opportunities for Transformation - The current challenges may present opportunities for capable participants to emerge, as the industry shifts back to its core purpose of value creation and supporting innovative companies [38][39]. - The trend of Chinese companies expanding overseas is gaining momentum, with a 25% year-on-year increase in the number of companies going abroad in the first half of 2025, offering new investment avenues [40]. - The rise of AI and other technological advancements presents structural investment opportunities, requiring GPs to possess strong technical and industry insights to identify valuable projects [41][42]. Group 6: Future Directions - The article emphasizes the need for a shift from a focus on financial returns to a commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of promising enterprises [45][46]. - The narrative suggests that the future of the venture capital market will belong to those who can create genuine value and adapt to the evolving landscape, moving away from purely financial motivations [49].