Arshy Mann, co-founder of The Hatchet, dives into riveting discussions about Reddit's surprising market value despite its unprofitability. He highlights the platform's unique cultural impact and various user-generated subcultures. Also on the agenda are Canada's looming tariffs on steel and aluminum, exploring the historical context and industry implications. The conversation wraps up with a look at data brokers and the challenges of protecting personal information in today's digital landscape, offering listeners insightful tips to safeguard their privacy.
Reddit's unique position as a platform for niche conversations has driven its $40 billion valuation despite persistent unprofitability.
The proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian aluminum and steel could threaten 123,000 jobs, revealing the complexities of international competition and trade policies.
Deep dives
The Data Broker Market and Its Implications
The data broker market generates approximately $250 billion annually, highlighting the significant value of personal information. New regulations planned for implementation in the U.S. aimed to treat data brokers similarly to credit reporting agencies, but these have faced setbacks. This situation raises concerns, especially as data brokers are already successfully collecting Canadians' data without strict oversight. The assumption that anonymized data is safe is misleading, as it can often be de-anonymized with just a few data points, leaving individuals vulnerable.
Impact of U.S. Tariffs on the Canadian Steel and Aluminum Industries
The U.S. plans to impose a 25% tariff on aluminum and steel, which could severely affect the Canadian steel industry already struggling from international competition. The steel sector is particularly vulnerable, employing around 23,000 Canadians directly, with another 100,000 jobs dependent on it. In contrast, aluminum poses a more perplexing dynamic, as Canada supplies about 50% of America's aluminum needs despite the upcoming tariffs. The motivations behind these tariffs are debated, with some seeing it as a way to bolster the U.S. domestic industry, which has dwindled over the years.
Reddit's Unique Position and Financial Reality
Reddit stands out as a potent platform for niche, unfiltered conversations, distinguishing itself from other social media sites that often prioritize mainstream content. Despite never being profitable, Reddit is valued at $40 billion, reflecting its cultural relevance and the value of its user-generated content. This uniqueness not only garners advertising interest but also attracts contracts from AI developers seeking to leverage the platform's diverse discussions for training models. The ongoing appeal of Reddit lies in its ability to foster subcultures, making it a prime resource for data and engagement in an increasingly homogenized digital space.
For a long time, Reddit’s been seriously useful and seriously unprofitable. On this week’s TLDR, a look at why it’s becoming very valuable to some surprising players. Plus, Canada’s steel and aluminum industries are (potentially) about to face some hefty tariffs. Arshy Mann explains the strange (lack of) logic behind it all. And, data brokers are coming for your most sensitive information. So what can you do about it?
This episode was hosted by Devin Friedman, business reporter Sarah Rieger, former hedgefunder Matthew Karasz and founder of The Hatchet Arshy Mann. Follow us on other platforms, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter: linkin.bio/tldr
The TLDR Podcast is offered by Wealthsimple Media Inc. and is for informational purposes only. The content in the TLDR Podcast is not investment advice, a recommendation to buy or sell assets or securities, and does not represent the views of Wealthsimple Financial Corp or any of its other subsidiaries or affiliates. Wealthsimple Media Inc. does not endorse any third-party views referenced in this content. More information at wealthsimple.com/tldr.
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