HD in HD How This Dropout Built a $3B Fintech Giant | André Street
Jun 10, 2025
André Street, co-founder of the $3.67 billion fintech giant StoneCo, shares his entrepreneurial journey that began at just 14. He reveals why he never wanted to be a CEO and the pivotal early customer focus that shaped his business model. Street discusses the importance of understanding problems before solutions and his hiring mantra that fostered a strong company culture. He also uncovers insights from his transition into new markets like Europe, emphasizing resilience and the critical lessons learned along the way.
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Early Export Venture Sparked Passion
- At 13, André Street tried exporting açaí from Brazil to the US as his first business venture.
- Though unsuccessful due to immaturity, this sparked his early entrepreneurial passion.
Rejecting Traditional Paths Early
- André considered becoming a judge due to family influence but rejected it as it conflicted with his desire for a dynamic life.
- He realized entrepreneurship could offer faster financial returns and personal fulfillment.
Solve Problems from First Principles
- André emphasized solving problems from first principles rather than copying existing solutions like PayPal.
- He believes the entrepreneur must fall in love with the problem, not the initial solution.
