This Week in Startups

The state of seed, the first TWIST500 startups, and the impact of anonymous apps on society | E1963

Jun 11, 2024
The conversation dives into the controversial app 'Fizz' and its implications for anonymity in social media. Concerns arise about its impact on youth, alongside a debate on the role of investors in such technologies. The discussion shifts to the current state of seed funding, emphasizing the need for efficiency in startups as capital availability shrinks. Interesting parallels between poker strategies and venture investing are explored, shedding light on the competitive nature of fundraising. Finally, thoughts on the legal and ethical intricacies of joining rival companies are examined.
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ADVICE

Kids and Anonymity

  • Protect children from anonymous online environments.
  • Anonymity is valuable for whistleblowers and vulnerable adults seeking advice, but detrimental to developing teens.
INSIGHT

Investment Thesis of Anonymous Apps

  • Anonymous apps attract investors because of their initial viral growth, resembling successful platforms like Yik Yak and Secret.
  • This pattern continues despite the known risks and previous failures, driven by greed and the pursuit of virality.
ANECDOTE

Fizz Causing Chaos

  • Jason recounts a Wall Street Journal story about Fizz causing chaos in a Vermont high school.
  • He urges investors to consider the real-world harm, including potential suicides, caused by such apps.
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