Equity

Big tech is under the spotlight with major earnings reports from companies like Microsoft and Apple. A new mobile app from a browser startup aims to shake up how we search online, challenging Google’s stronghold. Reddit could be eyeing a $5 billion valuation for its IPO, an exciting prospect for the platform. Additionally, discussions about Apple's Vision Pro facing off with Meta’s strategies add another layer to the tech landscape. Plus, cryptocurrency trends and some pressing controversies in AI and edtech are explored.

Gené Teare, Senior Data Editor at Crunchbase News, returns to analyze the latest venture capital trends as 2023 wraps up. She discusses a dramatic 40% drop in funding, particularly in early-stage investments. Despite the downturn, AI startups showcase resilience and continue to attract considerable capital. Gené contrasts this with the waning interest in Web3 and highlights the evolving metrics of success. The conversation also dives into unicorn fundraising dynamics and the implications for the M&A market in 2024.

This week, the hosts dive into the surprising twists in the startup world, including a massive $432 million fund launched amid a funding decline. Fintech giant Brex faces challenges with slowing growth and recent layoffs, stirring up discussions about its future. Meanwhile, the edtech sector shows unexpected resilience, fueled by investor optimism and AI innovations. The episode wraps up with intriguing insights into the evolving dynamics of online markets and the automotive industry's shifts.

This week, the spotlight is on startup funding, with Artisse AI raising $6.7 million for its innovative selfie app. Fintech is thriving, as Bilt Rewards secures $200 million in new funding. Kittl is making waves in the design space with a $36 million round, proving that European startups can compete globally. Meanwhile, Byju's struggles highlight the EdTech sector's challenges, and General Catalyst is eyeing a potential acquisition in India, signaling the region's growing importance in tech. Stay tuned for a deeper dive into fintech developments!

The Q4 2023 earnings season kicks off with major players like Intel and Visa. Crypto struggles to find its footing after the ETF hype. Eleven Labs secures $80 million to boost its AI voice tech, stirring curiosity about its impact on voice actors. Meanwhile, Canva surprises with impressive growth, hinting at a future IPO. Cybersecurity funding takes a hit despite rising threats, and developers face challenges with Apple's Vision Pro. Plus, there's a clever trick to slow down TikTok!

This discussion dives into the impressive growth of Pomelo, a fintech success story from Latin America, following a recent funding boost. Tandem is introduced as a clever app facilitating shared finances without merging accounts, reflecting the evolving needs of couples. The conversation also navigates the ambivalence of enterprises regarding generative AI, revealing a gap between expectations and reality. Lastly, the outlook on startup valuations presents cautious optimism, indicating stability amid uncertain market trends.

Aileen Lee, managing partner at Cowboy Ventures and the founder of the term 'unicorn,' dives into the latest insights on billion-dollar startups. She discusses the explosive growth of unicorns from 39 to over 532, the implications of market shifts, and introduces quirky new terms like 'unicorpse' and 'zombiecorn.' Aileen highlights the rising competition for unicorn status, the challenges of diversity in founding teams, and how AI is reshaping consumer software expectations. Plus, we learn why New York is becoming a unicorn hotspot.

Vertice secures $25 million to help companies cut cloud costs with AI-driven tools. Electra grabs $330 million to expand its EV charging network, betting on long-term success. Meanwhile, Build a Rocket Boy raises $110 million, hinting at exciting gaming releases on the horizon. Thomvest launches a new $250 million fund, signaling robust investment opportunities. Additionally, there's a spotlight on emerging trends in startup funding and a hopeful outlook for African entrepreneurs.

Stocks are plunging globally with eyes on TSMC's earnings. In crypto, Bitcoin's ETF launch didn't spark a rise, while Ethereum shows unexpected promise. Uber is winding down its Drizly acquisition, signaling change in alcohol delivery. Spot Technologies raises $2 million, contrasting with Kuda's impressive $20 million funding in a tough market. Apple's reign in smartphones faces hurdles, while Microsoft dives into AI innovations, showcasing the industry's dynamic landscape.

Jenny Fielding, co-founder and managing partner at Everywhere Ventures, dives into the current landscape of venture capital. She discusses the ‘flight to quality’ trend among startups and how smaller firms are rising to meet the challenge from larger funds. Fielding outlines the emotional hurdles of VC careers and reveals insights on the evolving fundraising strategies and how they vary between seasoned leaders and first-time founders. Tune in to hear about the shifting dynamics in fintech investments and the impact of the 'great VC resignation' on the industry.