The hottest Business Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics

Corporate Democracy in Norway

Erik Examines • 179 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
💼 Business Corporate Governance Labor relations Economy Employee Rights
  1. In Norway, workers have a voice in how companies are run, with one-third of company boards elected by employees. This is different from countries like the US where employees have little say.
  2. Norway has mixed economic practices, blending capitalism with socialist ideals, allowing both workers and shareholders to have power. It's a unique approach that balances interests in the workplace.
  3. Discussions about employee rights in Norway often focus on whether they should be protected by laws or through collective agreements made by unions. This shows how employees advocate for their rights differently than in other countries.

Hype Is Not A Data Strategy

SeattleDataGuy’s Newsletter • 365 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
💼 Business Data Strategy Marketing Tech Trends Data science
  1. Hype around data and AI can distract companies from their real goals. It's important to focus on what data can actually do for your business, instead of getting lost in the trend.
  2. Most businesses don't rely on data as their main product. Even if data can improve their operations, it’s not their primary focus, so the challenge is making data truly useful.
  3. Companies often look up to big tech for data strategies, but they have different resources. Chasing after their methods without understanding your own needs can lead to a misguided strategy.

Letters to a Young Investor: Kirsten Green

The Generalist • 820 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
💼 Business Venture Capital Investing Entrepreneurship Startups Finance
  1. Kirsten Green's journey to becoming a successful investor wasn't straightforward. It took her ten years of learning and failing before founding her own firm.
  2. She developed a unique way of looking at business opportunities by focusing on how a business model can enhance the customer's experience.
  3. Failures in her early investments taught Kirsten valuable lessons and shaped her approach to investing, helping her identify when to trust her instincts.

After the Global Factory

European Straits • 7 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
💼 Business Manufacturing Supply Chain Outsourcing Strategy Economics
  1. Apple was able to succeed in manufacturing by controlling key parts of its value chain while outsourcing the rest. This allowed them to maintain high value without owning all the factories.
  2. Companies don’t need to own everything to be successful in manufacturing; they just need to control the important parts where they can influence the entire process.
  3. Manufacturing is complex and tricky. Successful companies find ways to balance costs with strategies that create value, ensuring they earn profits even when things get challenging.

The Burden of Proof

Investing 101 • 46 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
💼 Business Investing Critical Thinking Entrepreneurship Technology Science
  1. People often believe in ideas that match their group or social circle instead of thinking for themselves. This can lead to poor judgment and decision-making.
  2. Critical thinking is really important when evaluating claims, especially unusual ones like telepathy. It's essential to look for evidence and consider other viewpoints.
  3. Trust in sources of information is crucial. If a source is biased or lacks credibility, it can lead to believing things that aren't true, impacting investments and personal beliefs.
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Perceived Value

The Breaking Point • 279 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
💼 Business Sales Marketing Customer Service Branding Product Development
  1. Value is based on how the buyer sees it. For example, ice cubes can be very valuable on a hot day, but not so much on a cold one.
  2. Customers often find high value in features that are easy to create, rather than the complex ones. A simple 'Export to Powerpoint' function ended up being super useful for many users.
  3. Sometimes, the reasons customers buy a product aren’t just about how useful it is. They might buy it for the customer service, prestige, or other factors that might surprise you.

Projects don't pencil.

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 231 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
💼 Business Economics Real Estate Market Trends Finance Investment
  1. When projects don't pencil, it can relate to high costs or other factors, but it doesn't always explain the larger market trends clearly. Builders often focus too narrowly on costs without considering broader economic influences.
  2. There's a constant shift in the number of projects that pencil versus those that don't, depending on market conditions. Just because many projects aren't penciling doesn't mean that new projects won't be started; it can often indicate changing circumstances.
  3. Understanding why projects aren't penciling is complex. Costs, demand, and other factors all play a role, but it's important to avoid oversimplifying the reasons behind these changes.

How Paul Krugman changed the public face of economics

Noahpinion • 25647 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
💼 Business Economics Macroeconomics Public Engagement
  1. Paul Krugman changed economics by making it more accessible and engaging. He believed that good ideas come from everyone, not just top experts.
  2. He played a key role in popularizing Keynesian economics, especially during the Great Recession. His work helped explain the importance of government spending to boost the economy.
  3. Krugman critiqued the academic hierarchy and encouraged open discussions. He showed that even big names in economics could be questioned, which opened the door for new ideas.

Under-the-hood of writing on Substack

Sustainability by numbers • 658 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
💼 Business Marketing Entrepreneurship Publishing Media Content creation
  1. Building an audience takes time, and almost no one starts with one. Consistently publishing interesting content helps attract more readers over time.
  2. You can potentially make money on platforms like Substack, but it often depends on how engaged your audience is. Even a small, dedicated group can lead to a good income.
  3. Long-form writing is valuable because it allows for deeper exploration of topics. There's always room for new voices, and sharing your insights helps improve public discussions.

My thoughts on the Zscaler acquisition of Red Canary

Frankly Speaking • 305 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
💼 Business Technology Acquisitions Cybersecurity Market Trends Managed Services
  1. Zscaler bought Red Canary to create a more integrated and powerful security platform. This move helps them adapt to the changing needs of businesses that want fewer, but more effective tools.
  2. The combination of Zscaler’s services with Red Canary’s managed detection capabilities allows companies to reduce their security staff while improving response times. This can make security easier and potentially save money.
  3. The security market is shifting away from using many separate tools and towards unified platforms. As Zscaler and others adapt, there's potential for growth, but they must also navigate challenges in merging cultures and technologies.

Will the China Cycle Come for Airbus and Boeing?

Construction Physics • 33196 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
💼 Business Aerospace Manufacturing Technology Economics International Trade
  1. China has been trying to develop its own commercial aircraft industry for decades but faces many challenges. From technology theft concerns to complex manufacturing processes, it hasn't succeeded like in other industries.
  2. The C919 jet is China's latest attempt to compete with Boeing and Airbus. While it's secured a good number of orders, issues with performance and certification limits its appeal in the global market.
  3. Airbus has been more successful in China due to establishing local assembly lines. This made them more competitive compared to Boeing, which hesitated to set up operations in China.

✨⏩ What DeepSeek means for faster AI-driven economic growth

Faster, Please! • 1005 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
💼 Business Economics Technology Investments Productivity Global Trade
  1. DeepSeek's AI models show that effective technology doesn't always need expensive equipment, which could change how companies develop AI.
  2. Goldman Sachs believes AI could significantly boost productivity and global GDP, similar to tech booms seen in the past.
  3. The rise of cheaper AI models could lead to faster adoption of technology in businesses, which may help improve overall efficiency and economic growth.

Urban Paradise Lost?: The History of Seoul's Only Planned City

S(ubstack)-Bahn • 301 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
💼 Business Urban planning Real Estate Housing Market Transportation Government Policy
  1. Wirye New Town is a planned city in Seoul that looks great on the outside, with tall buildings and parks, but residents are unhappy due to missing public transport. They have protested and even sued the government over these transportation issues.
  2. Housing prices in Wirye spiked quickly, but now many homeowners feel anxious as prices have dropped significantly. The reliance on real estate for wealth in South Korea adds to their stress during this market instability.
  3. The city’s complex administrative setup creates confusion for residents, as the differing regulations lead to issues with services and community life. This mixed governance makes it hard for residents to get the help they need.

The Oddest Man Out Among Our $Hundred-Billionaires: Elon Musk

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 492 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
💼 Business Economics Entrepreneurship Market Trends Corporate strategy Investment
  1. Elon Musk's wealth, largely tied to Tesla, is facing challenges as the company’s profit growth may not continue. The recent surge in Tesla's sales was helped by market conditions and celebrity status, but that charm seems to be fading.
  2. Many billionaires, especially those in tech, have consistent income from their businesses. In contrast, Musk's financial future looks uncertain as competition in the electric vehicle market increases and his brand image shifts.
  3. The reasons people used to buy Teslas included its innovation and eco-friendliness. Now, with Musk's controversial actions, many of those who once supported the brand are distancing themselves, which could hurt Tesla's future sales.

How to buy a duplex (or triplex)

Supernuclear • 579 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
💼 Business Real Estate Finance Investing Housing Law
  1. Buying a duplex or triplex can save you money compared to single-family homes. They are typically about 30% cheaper per square foot, making them an affordable option for many.
  2. Duplexes offer a blend of private space and the ability to live close to friends. You can enjoy your own area while still maintaining close connections with others.
  3. There are different ways to buy a duplex, each with its own financial and legal considerations. It's important to explore these options to find what works best for your situation.

Our community round has opened—let's fund this book!

The Novelleist • 282 implied HN points • 29 May 25
💼 Business Investment Crowdfunding Publishing Economics Capitalism
  1. The community funding round for the book 'We Should Own The Economy' has opened, allowing readers to invest and share in potential profits.
  2. They have already raised almost $60,000 and invite everyone to confirm their investments through a provided link.
  3. There's an open call tonight where participants can ask questions about the book and contribute ideas on how to shape the future of capitalism.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers (10/28)

Human Capitalist • 19 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
💼 Business Career Changes Market Trends Corporate News Talent Acquisition
  1. There were many job changes last week, highlighting the dynamic nature of the job market. People are moving to different companies for various reasons, which shows how interconnected industries are.
  2. Notable moves include individuals transitioning to leadership roles in different sectors, such as marketing and compliance. These shifts can indicate a focus on growth and adaptation in their new companies.
  3. Keeping track of job changes can be important for investors, recruiters, and anyone interested in talent trends. Following job movements helps understand who is leading in different areas.

Pivotal Tech Company: 50% Drop in Orders

COVID Reason • 237 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
💼 Business Finance Economics Markets Technology Innovation
  1. ASML, a major company in the semiconductor industry, saw a huge 50% drop in future bookings. This suggests some big challenges in the market right now.
  2. The decline in orders points to larger economic issues that could be affecting many companies. It shows how quickly things can change in the world of tech.
  3. Overall, this situation reveals that the financial landscape can be unpredictable. Companies need to stay alert to these shifts to manage risks properly.

Top Links 749 Tanning and the tariffs. How small boats are getting bigger. Liverpool and the unmaking of Britain.

Chartbook • 629 implied HN points • 25 May 25
💼 Business Trade Economics Industry International Supply Chain
  1. The leather industry in the US is facing challenges due to tariffs, which can affect the prices of products made from leather.
  2. Small boats are getting bigger, which might change how we think about fishing and travel at sea.
  3. The history of Liverpool is highlighted as a key part of understanding the changes in Britain.

Why is Boeing such a shitty corporation?

Robert Reich • 33589 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
💼 Business Outsourcing Ownership
  1. Airbus has taken the lead over Boeing in manufacturing and sales of commercial aircraft
  2. Boeing's commitment to safety has been doubted by the public and airlines, affecting its reputation
  3. Airbus and Boeing differ in ownership and worker power, which impacts their approach to manufacturing and safety

Dirty Work: The Return of Blue Collar

State of the Future • 144 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
💼 Business Employment Economics Labor Automation Education
  1. AI is taking over many white-collar jobs, especially those that are routine and easily automated. Many of these roles aren't as valuable as we once thought.
  2. There are plenty of blue-collar jobs available that can provide real satisfaction and meaning. These jobs often require skills that AI cannot replicate.
  3. Blue-collar jobs are likely to gain more respect and higher status in the future. We should encourage young people to consider these careers now.

How the Bud Light Debacle Predicted America's Corporate Vibe Shift

The Ruffian • 301 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Branding Consumer behavior Corporate strategy Cultural Trends
  1. Bud Light faced a major backlash after a marketing campaign featuring a transgender celebrity, showing how quickly consumer sentiment can change. This backlash resulted in a significant loss of sales and brand trust.
  2. Unlike typical consumer boycotts, the impact on Bud Light endured even after the company attempted to distance itself from the controversy. This highlights the lasting effects that cultural issues can have on brands.
  3. The Bud Light incident reflects a larger trend in corporate America where companies need to be more aware of the cultural-political environment. Brands must navigate these changes carefully to maintain their audience and market position.

The Bear Cave #275

The Bear Cave • 489 implied HN points • 25 May 25
💼 Business Finance Investing Corporate Governance Market Analysis Executive Changes
  1. Culper Research shared concerns about Archer Aviation, claiming they've misled investors about their eVTOL aircraft development. This raises questions about the company's trustworthiness.
  2. Recent executive resignations at several companies indicate potential instability and challenges within those organizations. This could affect their performance and investor confidence.
  3. Muddy Waters Research and other groups are highlighting issues in companies like Freedom Holding Corp and Marqeta, pointing out possible financial mismanagement and regulatory problems that could pose risks for investors.

How we built a business out of recession - chapter 36 - ciao Italia

The ZIPster • 35 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Startups Marketing Sales Technology
  1. CitNOW started as a small company in the UK and grew by creating easy-to-use automotive apps. They found success by being the first to offer this kind of technology in their market.
  2. They learned the importance of focusing on their target market, which was the automotive industry. They decided to stop chasing opportunities outside this sector to stay true to their core business.
  3. When expanding internationally, they took careful steps after learning from past mistakes. They aimed to enter the Italian market by leveraging their successes and established relationships with companies like Volkswagen.

Market Movers - 5 October 2024

The Wolf of Harcourt Street • 579 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
💼 Business Stocks Finance E-commerce Market Trends Investing
  1. InPost launched a rewards program called InCoins, which allows users to earn coins for using their services. This strategy aims to make delivery more fun and encourage more people to use InPost.
  2. Sea Limited opened a new fulfilment center in Brazil to improve logistics for sellers. This move is expected to help local businesses grow and provide faster service to customers.
  3. Airbnb saw a big increase in bookings in Thailand, especially for group travel and long-term stays. This growth is due to better flight options and new visa policies that attract remote workers.

Markets Do the Good Things That Sound Bad

Bet On It • 246 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
💼 Business Economics Markets Policy Management Corporate Governance
  1. Markets often get criticized for being cost-conscious and risk-aware, but these qualities can actually lead to better outcomes for society. It's important to remember that ignoring costs can create bad decisions.
  2. People think businesses focusing on profits are bad, but profit-seeking can sometimes lead to positive results. It's about balancing risks for larger gains rather than taking reckless risks.
  3. Many popular arguments against markets don't see the bigger picture. When looking at overall success and safety, richer countries with fewer regulations often fare better than poorer, heavily regulated ones.

Reading List 02/15/25

Construction Physics • 8351 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💼 Business Insurance Automotive Investment Infrastructure Technology
  1. California is facing a homeowners insurance crisis, with the state relying on private insurers for a bailout to support its last-resort fire insurance, leading to increased costs for homeowners.
  2. Tech companies are vastly increasing their investments in AI data centers, with major players like Microsoft and Google planning to spend over $215 billion combined this fiscal year.
  3. Tesla is seeing a decline in sales both in Europe and the US, which may be linked to public perception of Elon Musk and his influence on politics.

You are just your bosses’ little bitch

antoniomelonio • 215 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
💼 Business Workplace culture Leadership Employee Rights Work-life balance
  1. Most workplaces operate like dictatorships, where employees must follow bosses without question. This creates a daily stress of having to please someone else just to keep their job.
  2. The idea of changing jobs or starting your own business is not a true escape, as it often just leads to serving another boss or dealing with new pressures. Many people feel trapped in this cycle.
  3. Our modern work culture often makes us lose our individuality and autonomy. It can feel like we are trading our personal freedom for a paycheck, with many people just going through the motions.

Six Startups to Watch

The Generalist • 400 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
💼 Business Startups Investing Finance Technology Entrepreneurship
  1. There are six startups that are worth paying attention to right now. They offer fresh ideas in areas like DNA sequencing and AI.
  2. These startups include a competitor to 23&Me and an AI accounting tool, which could change their industries.
  3. Joining a subscription service can give you exclusive insights into these startups and keep you updated on new trends.

Why Streaming Subscription Prices Will Continue to Rise

The Honest Broker • 25300 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
💼 Business Media Entertainment Pricing Strategy Consumer behavior
  1. Streaming subscription prices are increasing because companies are focusing on making more profit from fewer customers. They believe it's better to charge loyal users more instead of trying to attract new ones.
  2. The entertainment industry is cutting back on creating new content, which means we might see fewer movies and shows. This reduction is part of a strategy to maintain profits even as customer numbers decline.
  3. While big companies may struggle, this situation could open doors for indie creators. As larger companies shrink, new opportunities for creativity and innovation might arise for others.

Five possible reasons China's productivity slowed down

Noahpinion • 15529 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
💼 Business Economics International Trade Productivity Corporate strategy Market Trends
  1. China's productivity growth has slowed down due to hitting natural limits in technology absorption and an aging population. As they reached the tech frontier, it became harder to improve productivity at the same pace.
  2. R&D productivity in China is low, especially in state-owned companies. The focus has shifted to quantity over quality in research, leading to many low-quality studies and less innovation.
  3. China's economy is heavily reliant on investment rather than consumption. Unlike the U.S., which benefits from high consumer spending, China may be missing out on productivity gains from a robust consumer market.

The Corporate Life Cycle: Managing, Valuation and Investing Implications

Musings on Markets • 1438 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
💼 Business Corporate Finance Valuation Investment Strategies Management Economic Trends
  1. Businesses, like people, go through life cycles. They start as new ideas, grow, and eventually decline if not managed properly.
  2. Companies age differently, impacting their strategies and financial health. Younger companies often focus on growth, while older ones need to defend their position or manage decline.
  3. The skills and qualities needed in leadership change with a company's age. A startup needs a visionary leader, while a declining company may require a pragmatic approach to manage its downsizing.

Strange and Dazzling Things Are Happening Right Now

The Honest Broker • 19781 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
💼 Business Startups Media Finance Technology Entrepreneurship
  1. Elon Musk tried to buy Substack, but the CEO chose to reject the offer, showing loyalty to independent writers.
  2. Substack's subscription numbers are growing, with many creators earning significant income, but the platform still isn't profitable yet.
  3. There are concerns about some tech companies, like Nvidia, using risky accounting practices that can create a false sense of success.

I Do Nothing at Work and No One Seems To Notice or Care

antoniomelonio • 987 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture Employee engagement Job Satisfaction Mental health
  1. Many white-collar workers feel like they do little to no meaningful work, even though they get paid well. This creates a sense of guilt when they see others, like manual laborers, working hard for less pay.
  2. Jobs often seem pointless, defined by layers of bureaucracy and processes that don’t truly serve people. This leads to feelings of alienation and boredom for many in those roles.
  3. There’s a growing concern about the future of work with the rise of AI. Many jobs may become obsolete, raising questions about how society will adapt and what meaningful work will look like.

10 Things People Don't Realize About Scrum

Ageling on Agile • 119 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
💼 Business Agile Management Leadership Training
  1. Scrum isn't just about short-term goals; it focuses on the long-term vision for the product. The Product Owner plays a key role in setting a clear Product Goal and regularly reviews progress.
  2. The purpose of a Sprint is to learn and adapt, not just to deliver a set amount of work. Each Sprint acts as a learning cycle where teams reflect and plan the next steps based on what they've achieved and learned.
  3. The Scrum Master is more than just a facilitator; they are also responsible for helping the whole organization adopt Scrum effectively. They guide both the team and other stakeholders to understand their roles in the process.

Google throws publishers a bone

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 28 May 25
💼 Business Media Publishing Streaming Technology Journalism
  1. Google's Discover feature is helping some publishers offset losses from search traffic. This shift shows that not all platforms are the same and offers a small boost to those adapting.
  2. Ghost, a publishing platform, has hit a milestone with over $100 million in subscription revenue. This highlights the growing importance of independent platforms for publishers.
  3. The growing popularity of IMAX theaters is great for premium experiences, but it could hurt traditional cinemas. It's a tricky balance between offering luxury options and keeping it affordable for everyone.

Reading List 01/04/2025

Construction Physics • 11065 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
💼 Business Venture Capital Startup funding Infrastructure Natural resources Regulations
  1. There are maps showing natural amenities across the US, ranking places based on factors like temperature and sunshine. The West Coast and Florida score well, while the Midwest does not.
  2. Venture capital funding is shifting, with larger firms getting most of the money while smaller ones are struggling. There's a big drop in initial public offerings, making it tougher for investors.
  3. Boeing's recent struggles can be linked to its past merger with McDonnell Douglas, which seems to have affected its product development negatively.

At least five interesting things: Nerdy economics edition (#54)

Noahpinion • 16529 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
💼 Business Economics Taxation Health care Regulation Productivity
  1. The Destination-Based Cash Flow Tax (DBCFT) could help companies invest more and boost U.S. exports. It changes how corporate taxes work, making it easier for companies to grow and innovate.
  2. Construction productivity in the U.S. has been dropping, partly due to strict land-use regulations. These rules lead to smaller, less efficient construction firms, which impacts how quickly and effectively projects are completed.
  3. Not all so-called 'irrational' decisions people make are true mistakes; sometimes, it's just that the choices are too complex. We need to rethink how we view human decision-making in economics.

Eight Years Pathless & Money Reflections | #299

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 350 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
💼 Business Self-employment Income Streams Creative work Personal Finance Consulting
  1. Writing has become the main source of energy and joy. Even though it took time to make money from it, the creative freedom it provides is very fulfilling.
  2. After eight years of being self-employed, the income earned is similar to when employed. Building skills and improving the relationship with money have been key to this journey.
  3. Working independently has helped develop many skills, but it sometimes misses out on the joy of collaboration. Being open to teamwork in the future could bring new satisfaction.

How Do VCs Really Make Decisions?💡

The VC Corner • 459 implied HN points • 10 Sep 24
💼 Business Venture Capital Investment Strategies Entrepreneurship Market Analysis Financial Metrics
  1. VCs find deals through strong networks and relationships, not just random pitches. They carefully prune their opportunities, meaning a standout startup has a better chance of getting noticed.
  2. When it comes to choosing which startups to invest in, VCs place a big emphasis on the management team and the market potential. A great team can adapt and succeed, no matter how the market changes.
  3. Valuation is a delicate balance where VCs analyze exit opportunities and compare with similar companies. They aim for high returns, especially on early-stage investments, which comes with a lot of risk.