In this episode of Private Capital Perspectives, John Pugh sits down with Rahul Gupta, Managing Partner of RKG Holdings and Strategic Advisor to Mudita Venture Partners, to explore how disciplined investors are navigating today’s real estate cycle—and creating value in markets that feel anything but predictable.
From pricing assets in a higher-rate world to deploying capital across retail, hospitality, and venture, Rahul shares how his Wall Street foundation and hands-on operating approach shape every investment he makes. The conversation covers market fundamentals, value-add strategy, capital allocation, and the mindset required to build durable wealth in an uncertain environment.
Whether you’re a retail operator, real estate investor, or early-stage founder, this episode breaks down how long-term thinking, operational rigor, and selective concentration can drive outsized outcomes in today’s market.
Key Takeaways:
Today’s market rewards investors who price the world as it is, not as they wish it to be.
Low leverage, disciplined underwriting, and 24-month value creation windows can build durability in any cycle.
Retail on Florida’s Gulf Coast remains structurally strong, driven by population growth and low vacancy.
Micro-market insight—down to the block level—creates real differentiation.
Duality is an edge: Rahul underwrites like a banker and operates like a builder.
Diversification across real estate, public markets, and venture supports long-term resilience.
AI is becoming indispensable for diligence, research, and underwriting efficiency.
The best opportunities flow through trust-based networks—not broad marketing.
Chapter Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction to Rahul Gupta & RKG Holdings
02:13 – Seeing Opportunity in Every Market
04:09 – Rates, Inflation & the Path for Real Estate Values
06:36 – How Interest Rate Cuts Could Shape the Next 24–36 Months
09:29 – Building Value Within 24 Months: A Tactical Framework
12:18 – How Rahul Allocates Capital Across Asset Classes
14:55 – Why Florida’s Gulf Coast Is a High-Conviction Bet
16:59 – From Wall Street to Retail Value-Add: Rahul’s Journey
20:03 – Development, Single-Tenant Builds & Opportunistic Plays
22:31 – Rahul’s Edge: The Capital Allocator With a Builder’s DNA
25:16 – Inside Mudita Ventures & the Role of VC in His Portfolio
28:57 – The 10-Year Vision for RKG Holdings
30:34 – How AI Is Reshaping Diligence & Underwriting
35:07 – Advice to Emerging Investors: Bet on Yourself
37:26 – How to Connect With Rahul Gupta
Show Notes & Links:
Guest: Rahul Gupta — Managing Partner, RKG Holdings
Connect: Rahul at rahul@rkgholdco.com