In this engaging discussion, Jerome Ternynck, founder of SmartRecruiters and Rypples, shares his extensive HR tech experience and innovative approaches to recruitment. He highlights the critical role of purpose-driven hiring and the evolution of AI in talent acquisition. Alongside Robin Haak, a solo GP at Robin Capital, they explore the challenges and strategies in scaling SaaS businesses. Notably, Ternynck introduces Rypples, an initiative focused on sustainable investing in ocean-positive startups, merging financial success with ecological impact.

In a dynamic conversation, Benoit Vandevivere, CEO of Consentio and a key player in the eu/acc movement, dives into the mission to unify Europe's startup ecosystem. He discusses the innovative '10-second investment process' aimed at streamlining funding and reducing barriers for founders. Benoit also sheds light on the challenges of market fragmentation and regulatory hurdles. Passionately advocating for collaboration among stakeholders, he emphasizes the need for policy reforms to foster an environment ripe for innovation and growth in European technology.

Alberto Chalon, founding GP of Giano Capital and a seasoned expert in venture secondaries, shares invaluable insights on the secondary market. He discusses the evolving landscape, particularly the differences between U.S. and European investors. Topics include seller motivations, critical roles played by intermediaries, and the complexities of pricing and legal challenges. Alberto also introduces his innovative quantitative scorecard for evaluating buyers and navigates through key trends shaping the market, making it essential for anyone looking to engage in venture secondaries.

Sandeep Bakshi, Head of European Investments at Prosus Ventures, shares his expertise on early-stage investing in Europe. He discusses how AI is revolutionizing marketplaces, enhancing user experiences, and boosting operational efficiency. The conversation dives into the unique challenges European founders face and the role of strategic capital in scaling startups. Sandeep also compares the evolution of AI marketplaces in Europe to other regions, shedding light on the future of mobile commerce and the importance of privacy in AI innovations.

Evgenia Plotnikova, General Partner at Dawn Capital, shares her journey from investment banking during the financial crisis to thriving in venture capital. She discusses the significance of mentorship and team culture at Dawn, particularly in B2B software investments. Evgenia explores the challenges of venture capital exits, advising a focus on genuine business metrics over inflated valuations. Additionally, she dives into the dynamic AI landscape, urging investors to prioritize authentic solutions rather than tech buzzwords. An insightful look at navigating today's venture environment!

Maitham Mohamed, CEO and founder of Material10, discusses his journey to revolutionizing in-game economies through innovative business models. He shares insights on integrating blockchain to enhance player engagement and create sustainable revenue streams. The conversation delves into the evolution of gaming economies, the addictive nature of virtual markets, and the creation of a new competitive multiplayer shooter. With his lean team based in the UK, Maitham aims to challenge traditional gaming models, paving the way for more immersive player experiences.

Jan Lynn-Matern, Founder and General Partner at Emerge, discusses how AI is dramatically reshaping learning and work. He emphasizes Emerge's mission to democratize opportunities for early-stage founders and the importance of nurturing curiosity in education. The conversation addresses the challenges faced by traditional universities, the urgent need for upskilling in the workforce, and innovative solutions driven by AI to enhance learning and career navigation. Jan provides keen insights into the evolving European market and the impact of generative AI on job dynamics.

Tension rises in a critical American election, with concerns over civil unrest and economic impacts from candidates' policies. The discussion highlights the revamped CHIPS Act and Europe’s semiconductor ambitions in the face of U.S. advancements. Meanwhile, a prominent investor shifts focus to liquidity amid market uncertainty while contemplating tech's evolution, especially as AI tools challenge Google's dominance. The pressures on startup founders are scrutinized, emphasizing the need for supportive venture capital to prioritize their mental health.

In this engaging discussion, Robin Haak, the solo GP behind Robin Capital, shares his adventurous journey from running a coffee shop in Bhutan to Muay Thai battles in Thailand. He dives into the realities of being a solo GP in Europe, facing fundraising challenges, and the importance of community-driven LP relationships. Robin emphasizes his commitment to a boutique approach and his philosophy of serving founders beyond just financial means. With insights into spirituality and personal connection, he offers a fresh perspective on investment and personal growth.

Join Tarek Khalil and Mohamed Elbadwihi, co-founders of Rasayel, as they discuss the innovative ways WhatsApp is reshaping business communication. They share their journeys from software engineering to launching Rasayel and the essential lessons learned from past startups. The duo reveals how WhatsApp serves as a dynamic platform for real-time customer engagement, particularly in developing countries. They also delve into trust, compliance, and the challenges of integrating WhatsApp into existing systems, highlighting its potential for transforming customer interactions.