This Week in Startups

Fantasy startup investing NFTs + former Tesla CTO JB Straubel’s Redwood Materials | E1299

Oct 7, 2021
In this discussion, JB Straubel, co-founder and former CTO of Tesla, shares insights from his journey of creating Redwood Materials, which focuses on lithium-ion battery recycling. He reflects on early Tesla challenges and the electrifying launch of the Roadster. The conversation also dives into the importance of sustainable battery technologies and localizing supply chains to reduce environmental impact. Plus, there are thought-provoking views on generational attitudes towards sustainability and innovation in the electric vehicle sector.
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ANECDOTE

Fantasy Startup Investing NFTs

  • Vision Rare launched fantasy startup investing NFTs but shut down 24 hours later due to legal concerns.
  • Users could bid on NFT shares of startups and build fake portfolios.
INSIGHT

Irony of Accreditation Laws and NFTs

  • Non-accredited investors cannot buy shares in private U.S. companies due to SEC regulations.
  • Ironically, these same investors can buy NFTs, which function similarly to shadow securities.
ADVICE

Respect IP and Likeness Rights

  • Get permission before using other people's intellectual property (IP), especially for commercial purposes.
  • Using someone's likeness or image without consent can lead to legal trouble and public confusion.
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