This Week in Startups

Gas Stations in Space and Carried Interest on the Chopping Block | E2082

Feb 8, 2025

Daniel Faber, CEO of OrbitFab, dives into the fascinating future of the space economy. He discusses the revolutionary concept of 'gas stations for satellites' and the logistics of in-space refueling, emphasizing efficiency and cost reduction. Faber also addresses the standardization needed for fueling interfaces and the economic impact of these innovations. He highlights the importance of satellite maintenance and the potential of zero-gravity manufacturing, all while navigating the challenges of raising capital in the booming space sector.

01:02:46

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Episode guests

Daniel Faber

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The discussion centers on how the proposed changes to the carried interest tax exemption may dissuade investment in startups and alter the venture capital landscape significantly.

Orbit Fab’s innovative approach to satellite refueling aims to revolutionize the space economy by prolonging satellite operational lifespans through a standardized refueling system.

AI startups are reaching unprecedented growth milestones quickly, indicating a shift in market receptiveness and funding dynamics within the technology sector.

Deep dives

Investment Trends in Startups

Recent discussions highlight the significant changes in startup investment trends, particularly concerning the growing checks from large investment firms like Mubadala and General Catalyst. A proposed investment of $150 million each signifies the shift towards larger fund sizes, impacting traditional funding rounds such as Series A and Seed rounds. For instance, this investment could cover numerous seed rounds or support multiple Series A investments, particularly in high-demand sectors like AI. The increase in secondary market activity suggests a validating trend, indicating that valuations are now more sensible due to visible growth and milestones in these startups.

Intro

2min

Startup Growth in the AI Era

7min

The Impact of Tax Changes on Venture Capital Investments

4min

Tax Reform's Impact on Investment

6min

Investing in Startups and Fueling the Future in Space

4min

Revolutionizing Satellite Refueling

5min

Innovative Satellite Fueling and Branding Strategies

3min

Advancements in Space Technology and Economics

8min

Expanding Roles in the Space Industry and the Twist 500 Initiative

2min

10.

Deal Dynamics and Energy Innovations

16min

11.

Navigating Tech Employment Trends and Startup Opportunities

6min

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Today’s show: Jason and Alex discuss the carried interest tax loophole being in Trump’s crosshairs, a great interview with Orbit Fab and their plans for the industrialization of space, Deel’s $300M secondary and much more!

Timestamps:

(0:00) Episode Teaser(1:30) Introduction and welcome(2:40) AI startups reaching revenue milestones(9:00) Impact of carried interest tax changes

(10:01) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain athttps://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST

(11:25) Would ending the carried interest tax loophole hurt startup investing?

(19:17) Atlassian. Head tohttps://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(21:18) Introduction of OrbitFab's CEO, Daniel Faber(22:24) OrbitFab's market position, fuel standards, and customer adoption(27:14) Financial and logistical aspects of satellite refueling

(29:27) AdQuick. Visithttps://adquick.com/twist and mention TWIST to get $1000 off your first campaign.(31:03) Technical challenges in space operations and future applications(34:16) Raising capital and company growth in space startups(38:58) Community updates and secondary transactions in the market(49:32) CapBase acquisition by Deal(50:37) UAE-France data center collaboration and energy strategy(54:34) European AI and nuclear advancements(57:14) US tech employment trends and Meta's layoffs(1:00:51) Opportunities for founders and startup support resources

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(10:01) Squarespace. Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain athttps://www.Squarespace.com/TWIST(19:17) Atlassian. Head tohttps://www.atlassian.com/software/startups to see if you qualify for 50 free seats for 12 months.(29:27) AdQuick. Visithttps://adquick.com/twist and mention TWIST to get $1000 off your first campaign.

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