Black Quant

Michael Kott is the founder and primary investment decision-maker. He also serves as CEO of CM-Equity AG, a regulated German securities firm, and his operating team includes Jens Brunke from CM-Equity and Johannes Verst from the Quantum Business Network. The exact investment committee structure has not been publicly detailed.

Michael Kott leads both entities as founder of Black Quant and CEO of CM-Equity AG. CM-Equity is a licensed German financial services company that provides brokerage, asset management, and tokenization services. Black Quant benefits from this shared leadership through regulated infrastructure that most quantum-focused venture firms do not possess.

Deal flow comes primarily through the Quantum Business Network, an industry association that connects quantum computing startups, research labs, and corporate partners. Founder Johannes Verst of QBN is a co-investor aligned with Black Quant. This network-driven model gives the firm early visibility into European quantum technology companies.

No. While quantum computing is the core thesis, Black Quant targets adjacent sectors where quantum algorithms unlock value — including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, and industrial technology. The firm also holds a proprietary Bitcoin position, suggesting a broader mandate than pure quantum hardware or software.

The firm invests from seed through late-stage expansion rounds, concentrating on European technology companies. The stage range implies Black Quant can lead or participate in rounds from initial formation through pre-IPO financing, though no specific fund structure or vehicle size has been publicly disclosed.

The publicly available information does not confirm whether Black Quant syndicates deals with external limited partners or operates as a proprietary capital vehicle. The relationship with CM-Equity AG and Quantum Business Network members suggests some co-investment activity, but no public fund documents outline LP terms or minimum commitments.

The Quantum Business Network is a member-driven innovation association based in Germany that connects quantum technology companies, researchers, and investors. Johannes Verst serves as its CEO and initiated the Black Quant Fund through this network. QBN provides the ecosystem from which Black Quant draws its investment pipeline and technical expertise.