

E43: Innovative venture strategies, Zymergen's implosion, Square acquires Afterpay, future of fintech & more
Aug 6, 2021
This week’s conversation dives into innovative venture strategies, including the rise of venture studios. A critical analysis of Zymergen reveals the pitfalls of narrative-driven investments and the necessity for rigorous due diligence. The hosts tackle the emotional struggles of employees facing IPOs, while discussing Square's game-changing acquisition of Afterpay. They explore the landscape of fintech and the implications of financial deplatforming. Humorous banter rounds out the episode, showcasing their strong friendship and camaraderie.
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Episode notes
Friedberg's Move and Fundraise
- David Friedberg has relocated after 20 years in San Francisco.
- He announced Production Board's $300M raise, backed by BlackRock, Alphabet, and others.
Venture Studio Success
- Venture studios thrive when hyper-focused, like Idealab and Betaworks.
- Friedberg's focus on synthetic biology attracts investors by minimizing correlation risk.
Investment Strategy
- Double down on successful investments, similar to Craft Ventures' strategy.
- Focus on specific areas like SaaS and marketplaces.