Archive: startups

When seeking funding, a startup founder needs to sell their vision to investors. And investors need to challenge that vision. Here are some specific points both parties need to talk about in order to succeed.

Gold Confiscation, $90K Bitcoin and IPOs Gone Wrong

By Adam Sharp on October 4, 2019

Today we’re looking at three important stories: the history of gold confiscation, why IPO investors are last in line and the possibility of $90,000 bitcoin.
Premium

Pre-IPO Investors Don’t Need to Worry About WeWork

By Adam Sharp on October 1, 2019

WeWork has been a disaster, especially for SoftBank. But fortunately for pre-IPO investors, it’s not really impacting the private startup markets.
Premium
China is growing impatient with the protests in Hong Kong. And that means trouble.
San Francisco is known for being a hub for startups and venture capital. Here’s just how much its funding dominates the rest of California.

Mailbag: Learn From Venture Capital Investors’ Mistakes

By Early Investing on September 29, 2019

In this week’s Mailbag, the Early Investing team tackles startup investing tips and lessons learned from the WeWork IPO debacle.
In the headlines this week: Bitcoin falls 15%, WeWork tries to clean up its IPO mess and the House passes a marijuana reform bill with a historic vote.

Follow the Startup, Not the Sector

By Andy Gordon on September 25, 2019

When you’re looking for startup investments, don’t get blinded by shiny sectors. The startup comes first - not diversification for diversification’s sake.
Premium

Angel Investing Online and Offline

By Adam Sharp on September 24, 2019

Online and offline angel investing both have their benefits. Here are some differences between the two and how to figure out which method is best for you.

Mailbag: Disruptors Can Still Be Disrupted

By Early Investing on September 22, 2019

In this week’s Mailbag, the Early Investing team explains the difference between seed and Series A companies and what bitcoin maximalists get wrong.

News Fix: WeWork Can’t Shake Off Its IPO Woes

By Vin Narayanan on September 21, 2019

In the news this week, WeWork’s IPO woes continue, Massachusetts’ vape sales decline and the U.S. Army looks to hire crypto investigators.
Startups that challenge conventional thinking and go on to succeed are often the most profitable investments. But to take the plunge and invest in a truly crazy-sounding idea is one of the hardest things a startup investor can do.
Premium

Why We’re Looking for More Series A Startup Investments

By Andy Gordon on September 16, 2019

The First Stage Investor team is on the lookout for more Series A companies to recommend. And we’re also keeping an eye on escalating valuations.
In this week’s Mailbag, the Early Investing team talks Silicon Valley investments and equity crowdfunding portals.

Facial Recognition Technology Is Raising Serious Issues

By Andy Gordon on September 11, 2019

Facial recognition technology is spreading like wildfire, including among U.S. law enforcement. Here’s why that’s troubling.
Premium

Startup Investors: Watch Out for These Five Red Flags

By Adam Sharp on September 10, 2019

Adam Sharp lists his top five red flags to watch for when evaluating startup investments.