SaaS goes to space as some software startups are in a race to survive
Dec 8, 2023
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Tech journalists and writers Mary Ann Azevedo, Kirsten Korosec, and Alex Wilhelm discuss deals in the property play, SoftBank's majority share purchase of Cubic Telecom, and OurSky's space-viewing software system. They dive into troubles in fintech with the shutdown of ZestMoney and layoffs at Navan, and explore mixed signals in the software market. The podcast also delves into the challenges faced by startups, the rise of connected cars, telescope data collection, and struggles and layoffs at Navan (formerly Trip Actions).
Simply Homes focuses on buying, renovating, and renting out single-family homes in lower income neighborhoods, aiming to improve economic and social mobility for low-income families while generating profits.
Cubic Telecom provides a software-based networking solution for vehicles, enabling seamless connectivity between vehicles and mobile networks, enhancing the overall connected car experience and exploring applications in other sectors like agriculture and diagnostics.
Deep dives
Simply Homes: Investing in Low-Income Neighborhoods
Simply Homes is a unique PropTech startup that focuses on buying, renovating, and renting out single-family homes in lower income neighborhoods. They specifically target properties that have the potential to be good investments and rent them out to low-income families through the Section 8 voucher program. By automating the underwriting process and carefully selecting properties, Simply Homes aims to help improve economic and social mobility for these families while also generating profits. Their responsible approach and partnership with the housing authority and realtors contribute to their success.
Cubic Telecom: Simplifying Connected Car Networking
Cubic Telecom provides a software-based networking solution for vehicles, allowing them to connect to mobile networks in any country. Their platform eliminates the need for carmakers to negotiate separate deals with carriers for each region, saving time and costs. By enabling seamless connectivity between vehicles and mobile networks, Cubic Telecom enhances the overall connected car experience, including services like music streaming. They are also exploring applications beyond cars, such as agriculture and diagnostics. With a recent investment from SoftBank Corp, Cubic Telecom aims to tap into the growing demand for intelligent automotive solutions.
Our Sky: Tracking Space Data with Telescopes
Our Sky is a company that leverages a network of telescopes to track space data, including satellites and debris in low Earth orbit. They collect information from their own telescopes and collaborate with amateur astronomers to provide access to real-time data through an API. As the number of satellites and space traffic increases, there is a growing need for accurate and up-to-date information. Our Sky's platform offers a unique solution for monitoring space objects and has potential applications in areas like agriculture and machine diagnostics. Their recent seed round funding will support further development and expansion.
Mixed Results in the Software Industry Amid Economic Uncertainty
The software industry experiences a mixed outcome as some companies thrive while others await a more favorable economic landscape. Public software companies report varying levels of net new ARR growth, with some facing challenges in landing new clients and elevated churn rates. Many software companies struggle with the large cost of acquiring customers, which takes several years to recoup. The prevailing competition and the broad presence of big tech companies keep software prices low, limiting the ability of smaller companies to charge more. However, some software companies beat earnings expectations, indicating resilience and potential for growth in the future.
This week Mary Ann Azevedo, Kirsten Korosec, and Alex Wilhelm gathered to hash out the news over some coffee and good times. Here’s what the gang got into today:
What’s up with software? TechCrunch coverage of tech earnings is leading to a mess of mixed signals for startups, and VCs to interpolate; are valuations rising again, or will 2023 end as it began? For more on the software market today, head here.
Credits: Equity is produced by Theresa Loconsolo with editing by Kell. Bryce Durbin is our Illustrator. We'd also like to thank the audience development team and Henry Pickavet, who manages TechCrunch audio products.
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