This Week in Startups E1112: Emergency Pod! Nikola fraud allegations, Trevor Milton resigns, Jason reflects on Trevor’s answers
Sep 22, 2020
Trevor Milton, co-founder of Nikola Motor, joins to discuss his recent resignation amid serious fraud allegations. He delves into the scrutiny facing Nikola after claims by Hindenburg Research and contrasts its practices with Tesla's success. The conversation also unpacks investor expectations regarding transparency in tech and examines the ethics of pursuing hydrogen and electric vehicles. Milton’s evasive responses to questions about the company's future spark debate on startup valuations and the risks for retail investors in a rapidly evolving market.
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Pre-Product Investment Risks
- Avoid investing in pre-product companies.
- Retail investors lack the qualifications to assess such ventures.
Defensive Posture and WeWork
- Trevor Milton's immediate focus on WeWork's fraud might signal a defensive stance.
- His deflection from the product and emphasis on financial scrutiny raise concerns.
The Badger's True Purpose?
- Milton's justification for the Nikola Badger pickup truck seems manipulative.
- Building a product to inflate stock value raises concerns about stock manipulation.