This Week in Startups Ex-FB Diem team builds Aptos blockchain, Metamask parent ConsenSys raises $450M, Mojo's athlete betting market, Zero Grocery shutdown | E1409
Mar 16, 2022
Dive into the rise of Aptos, a new blockchain boasting a $1B valuation, and the impressive $450M funding round raised by ConsenSys. Discover Mojo's innovative concept of a stock market-style platform for betting on athletes and the surprising shutdown of Zero Grocery just a month after funding. Explore the evolution of digital currency from Facebook's Libra to current blockchain trends, alongside discussions on startup challenges, diversity in hiring, and the importance of effective communication in business.
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Aptos's Origin
- Meta (Facebook) is divesting from its crypto project, Diem, after facing regulatory scrutiny.
- Former employees raised $200M to build Aptos, a similar Layer 1 blockchain, valued at $1B.
Diem's Demise
- Facebook's foray into crypto with Libra/Diem was seen as a potential threat to the US dollar.
- This likely led to intense regulatory pressure and the project's demise.
Jason's Libra Handle
- Jason Calacanis recounts trying to sell the Libra Twitter handle to Facebook for $100,000.
- He refused phone calls, preferring written communication.
