Frank Rotman, co-founder of QED Investors and a key figure in fintech investing. Announced that he will transition to a partner emeritus role by the end of 2025. Instead of focusing solely on venture capital, Rotman plans to launch his own startups—starting with one in the music industry.
In a post on X, Rotman acknowledged that shifting from fintech to music might seem unexpected. But hinted that his long-held business idea could bring meaningful change to the industry.
“It’s easy to call me crazy for all the obvious reasons,” Rotman wrote. “But it’s worth reserving judgment until you learn more about the business that’s evolved in my head and sat on the shelf for years. It will be fun to build and could actually make a huge difference to an industry that none of us could imagine living without.”
Rotman co-founded QED in 2007 alongside Nigel Morris and Caribou Honig. Over nearly two decades, the firm has grown into a powerhouse. Managing $4 billion in assets and investing in major fintech successes like Credit Karma, SoFi, GreenSky, Flywire, and Nubank. Notably, QED was the first institutional investor in Credit Karma.
While stepping back from daily operations at QED, Rotman will remain involved in a part-time advisory role for the firm in the coming years.
Beyond launching startups, he also hinted at plans to write a book based on his insights into venture capital and startups.
“This shouldn’t surprise anyone who knows me – writing is my oxygen,” he said. “I can’t imagine a life without it even though ChatGPT and Claude are better writers than I am.”
QED Managing Partner Nigel Morris, who has worked with Rotman for over 30 years, praised his longtime colleague’s entrepreneurial drive.
“Frank, at his core, is an entrepreneur, and I have no doubt he will excel in his next chapter,” Morris said.
Rotman will officially transition to his new role on January 1, 2026. While his next moves may seem unconventional, his track record suggests his ventures will be worth watching.
