Alex Wilhelm
Jan 5, 2024
29 min
Listen to this episode on your favorite podcast platform
Hello, and welcome back to Equity, a podcast about the business of startups, where we unpack the numbers and nuance behind the headlines. This is our Friday show, and today, Mary Ann Azevedo and Alex Wilhelm took on the week’s biggest tech, startup, and venture capital news.
Deals of the Week
Ruth Foxe Blader Leaves Anthemis
- Source
- Ruth Foxe Blader is leaving Anthemis, albeit slowly. This development has sparked discussions about the future of the firm and its impact on the venture capital landscape.
- The departure of a key figure like Ruth Foxe Blader raises questions about the stability and direction of the company.
Exponent’s Second Fund
- Source
- Exponent has set up a second fund, but without a pure fintech focus. This move signals a shift in the firm’s strategy and investment priorities.
- The lack of a specific focus on fintech might indicate that the firm is looking to diversify its portfolio and explore new areas.
Alex Wilhelm on 2024: A "Pretty Alright" Year for Crypto?
- Source
- Alex Wilhelm discussed why he thinks 2024 could be a relatively positive year for crypto. This includes factors like increased adoption, improved regulation, and advancements in technology.
- While the future of crypto is uncertain, Alex’s optimism highlights the potential for growth and innovation in the space.
Layoffs and Shutdowns
Frontdesk Lays Off 200 People and Shuts Down
- Source
- Frontdesk has laid off a significant number of employees (around 200) and is shutting down operations. This news raises questions about the company’s business model, market demand, and leadership decisions.
- The sudden closure of a startup like Frontdesk can have ripple effects on the ecosystem, impacting investors, customers, and other stakeholders.
Countdown Capital Throws in the Towel
- Source
- Countdown Capital is shutting down due to factors like larger multistage funds inflating the entry point for hot seed deals. This trend is worth keeping an eye on as it may signal a shift in the venture capital landscape.
- The departure of firms like Countdown Capital can create opportunities for smaller players, but also raises concerns about market saturation and competition.
Helping One Another
Israel Supports Its Startup Industry
- Source
- Israel is working to support its startup industry, which has been disrupted by the recent conflict. This includes initiatives like the formation of the Tech for Palestine group.
- The efforts of organizations and governments in supporting startups can have a positive impact on innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
The Formation of the Tech for Palestine Group
- Source
- The new Tech for Palestine group aims to connect technology professionals with the Palestinian community. This initiative highlights the importance of diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility in the startup ecosystem.
- Such collaborations can lead to positive outcomes like increased economic opportunities, improved access to education, and enhanced community engagement.
That’s Equity for this week! We’ll be back on Monday!
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Alex Wilhelm
Senior Reporter
Alex Wilhelm was a senior reporter for TechCrunch, covering markets, venture capital, and startups. He was also the founding host of TechCrunch’s Webby Award-winning podcast Equity.
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