Approximately 50 CBS and CU alumni gathered for a reception and fireside chat with Professor Michael Ewens on Dec 8 at IFC Hong Kong. The event was broadcasted live via Zoom to regional alumni in Asia Pacific.

Professor Ewens shared his plans and outlook for the CBS private equity program that he is developing. He aims to construct four elective courses around the foundation course “PE Finance”, offering students a comprehensive understanding of private equity and its major quantitative methods. Looking to enhance CBS’s global presence and placement in the private equity arena, Professor Ewens envisions the launch of a Private Equity Center that will serve as a hub supporting students, alumni, academics and the practitioners. 

The event's highlight was an insightful panel discussion featuring Professor Ewens and PE practitioners Gordon Shaw ’92 and Amy Fong ’96. The speakers shared their long term optimism on the Greater China PE industry despite short term challenges and Hong Kong’s role as a super connector and a financial hub. In the face of higher interest rates and geopolitical tensions, they shared their views on creating value in PE investing and navigating the macroeconomic volatility.

Following the event, the CBS HK Alumni Club leaders hosted a dinner for Professor Ewens and Edward Chan from the Columbia development office.  

Special thanks to Gordon Shaw for graciously hosting the event at the BPEA office at IFC.