Erica Gessert, CFO of Upwork and former SVP of Finance at PayPal, shares her expertise in marketplace dynamics and financial strategies. She reveals how adaptable forecasting models can drive success even in shifting economic landscapes. The discussion includes Upwork's impressive 20-point EBITDA growth and their innovative approach to customer acquisition and network effects. Erica also highlights the crucial balance between profitability and growth, the role of AI in business evolution, and the entrepreneurial spirit of freelancers thriving in the gig economy.

Get ready to dive into the latest buzz in tech finance! Profits at X, previously known as Twitter, are soaring, but revenue growth seems to be lagging. Discover how Deel is shaking up the global employment scene with unmatched growth metrics and market strategies. Plus, there’s a deep dive into the valuation ups and downs in the data service sector, with Clay raising eyebrows as it navigates the challenges of product integration and customer loyalty. Tune in for a ringside view of the private tech market!

Kapil Agrawal, CFO at Outschool and former finance leader at Poshmark and Uber, shares his expertise in pricing strategies and marketplace models. He discusses Uber's innovative pricing tactics and the impact of promotions on customer growth. Kapil also reveals how he successfully raised Poshmark's gross margins and the challenges of blending marketplace and subscription models. The importance of high-quality decision-making and hard work in leadership is highlighted, along with insights on user engagement and achieving profitability in competitive landscapes.

In this enlightening discussion, Nigel Glenday, CFO and COO of Masterworks, shares his expertise on securitizing high-value artworks for everyday investors. He unveils the complexities of art as an asset class, emphasizing the power of data in valuation. Glenday compares art investment to other unique assets like racehorses while exploring innovative strategies to navigate market dynamics. He also highlights the significant role of financial approaches in art auctions, illustrating how creativity meets investment in this evolving landscape.

Dive into the latest insights on private markets with a look at top tech valuations and hiring trends. Discover which companies are rapidly expanding, and who’s facing layoffs. Key players like Databricks, Anduril, and Canva are spotlighted for their transformative impacts. Learn about recent funding rounds and executive hires that could shape the future landscape, plus sector highlights in foundational models, fintech, and autonomous driving. Get the scoop on how private and public valuations are evolving!

Eliran Glazer, CFO of Monday.com and a key player in its upcoming IPO, shares his insights on the importance of storytelling in corporate finance. He discusses the unique culture of the Israeli tech scene and how military service shapes entrepreneurial skills. Eliran delves into the challenges and strategies involved in navigating IPO preparations, emphasizing authenticity and tailored messaging to attract investors. He also highlights lessons learned on resilience and adapting to high-pressure situations, making the case for robust storytelling in leadership.

Jesper Sorensen, CFO of Mambu and author of three analytical books, shares his journey from early jobs to fintech leadership. He introduces the Analytics Escalator, a framework for maximizing data value. The discussion highlights the importance of integrating analytics within financial operations and building strong BI tech stacks. Jesper emphasizes the collaborative relationship between finance and sales teams and the need for professionals skilled in both analytics and finance to drive impactful decision-making.

Jeff Cassidy, CFO of Prodigy Education, has a fascinating career spanning finance, biotech, and more. He shares unconventional advice on prioritizing personal fit over credentials in hiring. Jeff discusses building strong teams through ambition and skill, particularly during the challenges of the pandemic. He critiques the traditional college system, advocating for practical skills and diverse experiences. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of empathy in financial management, especially in supplier relations and team dynamics.

Michiel Boere, CFO of Remote, shares his expertise in building global companies and revolutionary approaches to budgeting. He discusses the benefits of remote work, enhancing equity in the job market and managing international finance complexities. Michiel critiques traditional budgeting, advocating for flexibility that better aligns with actual company needs. He also shares insights on risk management, unit economics, and the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture to retain talent.

Reid DeRamus, a media and tech executive with experience at Hulu and HBO Max, shares insider insights on B2C subscription strategies. He discusses navigating price increases and their impact on customer retention and acquisition. Reid highlights the importance of effective communication around pricing changes and pitfalls of discounting. He introduces the concept of 'elevating the cohort floor' for retention and examines the delicate balance between subscription and ad revenue. Unique monetization lessons from platforms like OnlyFans are also explored.