Introduction

Welcome to Equity, a podcast about the business of startups. We unpack the numbers and nuance behind the headlines in this Friday show. Today, Mary Ann Azevedo and Alex Wilhelm discuss the week’s biggest tech, startup, and venture capital news.

Deals of the Week

Ruth Foxe Blader Leaving Anthemis

Ruth Foxe Blader is leaving Anthemis, albeit slowly. The exact reasons for her departure are unclear, but it has sparked conversations about the changing landscape of venture capital firms.

Exponent’s Second Fund

Exponent has announced a second fund, but this time without a pure fintech focus. This shift may indicate a broader market trend or a strategic decision to diversify investments.

Alex Wilhelm on 2024 Being a "Pretty Alright" Year for Crypto

Alex Wilhelm shares his insights on why 2024 could be a promising year for the crypto industry. He highlights various factors contributing to this potential growth, including advancements in technology and increased adoption.

Layoffs and Shutdowns: A Trend Worth Watching?

Frontdesk’s Business Model Under Scrutiny

Frontdesk has laid off 200 people and is shutting down, sparking questions about its business model. The company’s decision raises concerns about the sustainability of certain startup approaches.

Countdown Capital Throwing in the Towel

Countdown Capital is also closing its doors, partly due to larger multistage funds inflating the entry point for hot seed deals. This trend highlights the challenges faced by smaller venture capital firms and the need for adaptability in an ever-changing market.

Supporting One Another: Israel’s Startup Industry

Efforts to Support Israel’s Startup Industry

The recent war between Israel and Hamas has disrupted the country’s startup industry. To address this issue, various initiatives have been launched to provide support and resources to affected businesses.

Tech for Palestine Group Formed

A new group called Tech for Palestine has been established to promote innovation in the Palestinian tech sector. This initiative aims to create a network of experts who can offer guidance and mentorship to startups facing challenges due to the conflict.

Conclusion

This week on Equity, we’ve discussed various topics, including deals, layoffs, and shutdowns, as well as efforts to support Israel’s startup industry. The changing landscape of venture capital and the impact of larger multistage funds on smaller firms are trends worth monitoring.

Additional Resources

For episode transcripts and more, visit our Simplecast website. You can also find us on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. TechCrunch has a great show on crypto that interviews founders and offers insights into the industry.

About Our Hosts

  • Alex Wilhelm is a senior reporter for TechCrunch covering markets, venture capital, and startups.
  • He’s also the founding host of TechCrunch’s Webby Award-winning podcast Equity.

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