Rebecca Szkutak, a Senior writer at TechCrunch specializing in venture capital and startups, joins the conversation to unpack pressing themes in the business world. They discuss the FDA's game-changing approval for over-the-counter hearing aids, fostering innovation. The impact of corporate cost-cutting on employee benefits is examined, emphasizing the value of mental health support. Plus, insights into the evolving venture landscape in Atlanta and the Midwest reveal how regional valuations are reshaping investment strategies.
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Neumann's Comeback
Adam Neumann's return to real estate with Flow, backed by a large check from a16z, surprised many.
Rebecca Szkutak questions the deal's future, given the changing venture landscape and potential lack of follow-on funding.
insights INSIGHT
Hearing Aid Disruption
The FDA's decision to allow over-the-counter hearing aids is a game-changer for startups.
This ruling opens doors to innovation, potentially lowering costs and reducing stigma around hearing loss.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Pomelo's Credit Innovation
Pomelo, an international money transfer startup, offers a unique approach by focusing on credit transfer instead of cash.
This model allows both senders and receivers to benefit, particularly those building credit scores.
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Hello and welcome back to Equity, a podcast about the business of startups, where we unpack the numbers and nuance behind the headlines.
This week, Natasha was joined by TC+ reporter Rebecca Szkutak to wade through the news of the week. It was frantic, it was full, and forgettable it was not!
Here's what we got into:
Quick note from Becca on Neumann's return and if follow-on funding will be a possibility for Flow -- given some investors reactions.
Speaking of regulatory pains, we spoke about how employee-benefits startups might escape cost cuts as companies seek to retain talent. Don't know about you but I'd prefer to lose free food over mental health support.
We ended with notes on two geographies.
Looking at the Midwest, we talked about how LPs aren't backing funds in the region this year despite many VCs considering it to be one of the safer areas to invest right now.
Comparing the Southeast and Midwest, we spoke about how lower valuations are helping fuel both regions to have a good year.
Equity drops every Monday at 7 a.m. PDT and Wednesday and Friday at 6 a.m. PDT, so subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify and all the casts.
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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