Equity Are companies falling out of love with OpenAI?
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Feb 7, 2025 Humanoid robotics company Figure is making waves by distancing itself from OpenAI to create proprietary AI models, sparking interest in their upcoming breakthrough. Recent research shows promising alternatives to OpenAI's costly models. The discussion also highlights controversial leadership changes in venture capital and a partnership between two space startups for telescope innovation. As Silicon Valley thrives, the chaotic political landscape in D.C. raises questions about efficiency over experience in tech roles.
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Controversial Hire
- Andreessen Horowitz hired Daniel Penny, who was acquitted of manslaughter after choking a passenger on the subway.
- Penny joins the American Dynamism team, despite lacking investing experience, signaling alignment with a particular political base.
Stripe's Strategic Hire
- Stripe hired Asia Bradley to lead startup and VC partnerships, possibly signaling more startup acquisitions.
- Bradley's founder background, including co-founding Kinley, may help Stripe identify acquisition targets.
Stripe's Crypto Acquisition
- Stripe acquired Bridge for $1.1 billion, enabling companies to accept stablecoins.
- This crypto acquisition could be timely given increasing regulatory interest in stablecoins.