The hottest Corporate strategy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Illumina's Roche Reaction

ASeq Newsletter • 21 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
💼 Business Health tech Market Trends Corporate strategy Investments Innovation
  1. Illumina is facing several challenges, including layoffs and changes in their offerings. They've introduced a new spatial instrument but are cutting employee stock grants.
  2. In their response to Roche, Illumina emphasized that Roche's technology is complex and might not be as efficient. They believe their products, like the MiSeq i100, are on par in performance.
  3. Overall, Illumina didn't provide clear answers to questions about their strategy, leaving some uncertainty about their future direction in the market.

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.

Qualcomm’s RISC Pays Off; Arm’s Dogs Don’t Bark

The Chip Letter • 4149 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Semiconductors Legal issues Corporate strategy Market Competition
  1. Qualcomm won the legal battle against Arm, as the jury decided Qualcomm did not breach any licensing terms. This means Qualcomm can continue using technology from its acquisition of Nuvia without additional legal issues.
  2. Arm claimed Qualcomm's actions would hurt their licensing fees and market control, but the jury didn't agree with Arm on key points. This suggests Qualcomm's strategy was successful.
  3. The trial was complex, and the outcome was unexpected for many observers, indicating that there might be more legal and business implications in the tech industry as companies navigate these licensing agreements.

Robots don't take your job. Bosses do

Altered States of Monetary Consciousness • 821 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
💼 Business Corporate strategy Labor Economics Technological Change Workplace dynamics
  1. Jobs are created not by robots but by the need for workers to operate businesses. Companies like Amazon rely heavily on their workers to exist.
  2. When companies automate or replace jobs with machines, it's really about the bosses choosing to spend money on technology instead of their employees. This often means fewer jobs.
  3. Economic growth doesn't necessarily mean better lives for workers. As technology advances, the pressure to keep up increases, leaving employees stressed and wanting.

Musk's Bid for OpenAI is Brilliant

startupdreams • 953 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
💼 Business Corporate strategy Venture Capital Market Valuation Mergers & Acquisitions
  1. Musk made a big offer of $97 billion to buy the for-profit part of OpenAI, much higher than the $40 billion OpenAI was planning to pay itself. This puts pressure on OpenAI's board to act responsibly.
  2. The offer complicates OpenAI's plans to turn entirely for-profit, making it harder for them to raise funds in the future. Musk's move puts the company in a tough position.
  3. Even after Musk's offer, OpenAI's leader, Altman, didn't address the implications in his response, suggesting he knows things are not going well for them.
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The Profile: The Spanx billionaire’s new invention & the DNA testing company running out of options

The Profile • 356 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Innovation Marketing Consumer Trends Corporate strategy
  1. Telling stories from unexpected perspectives can make them more interesting. For example, focusing on a gravedigger during a famous event reveals a unique viewpoint.
  2. Sara Blakely created a new shoe that mixes style and comfort, but it has received mixed reactions. She sees this as a sign of innovation, even if some people think it's odd.
  3. 23andMe, a DNA testing company, is facing big challenges after a data breach and struggles to make a profit. Their future is uncertain as they try to stay relevant in the market.

Part 2: Our Collective Order-Keeping Fictions

Holly’s Newsletter • 1071 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
💼 Business Work Culture Management Corporate strategy Data Privacy Technology Trends
  1. Many companies hire foreign workers, and there is a concerning lack of effective management. This is often due to too many people being in roles that don’t have real value.
  2. It’s scary how much bad coding exists, especially from those who think they’re experts but actually know very little. This can lead to bigger problems in tech environments.
  3. Data security is often not as strong as companies claim, and relying on tools like AI without proper coding knowledge can make things worse for everyone.

TBM 358: The Genius of SVPG

The Beautiful Mess • 1190 implied HN points • 16 May 25
💼 Business Change Management Leadership Organizational development Product Management Corporate strategy
  1. The SVPG approach to change is effective because it gives leaders a way to improve their product practices without losing face. It helps them take action while feeling confident in their leadership.
  2. For change agents within a company, who you are and how you say things really matters. Sometimes, your message might not be heard because of who you are, so timing and framing are important.
  3. Making big changes in an organization is tough and messy. Real change often requires removing hidden barriers and understanding that success doesn't just come from having a good plan; it's about navigating complex situations.

Is growth still good?

benn.substack • 1176 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
💼 Business Startups AI Innovation Market Trends Corporate strategy
  1. Fast growth can be misleading in today's market. Just because a startup is making money quickly doesn't mean it has a solid long-term plan.
  2. Smaller, newer companies are often more innovative than big ones. Many tech leaders are looking to fresh, creative minds instead of established corporations for solutions.
  3. AI is creating a new type of workplace dynamic. Instead of making jobs easier, it could lead to roles that are more focused on managing technology than using creativity.

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.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers (10/21)

Human Capitalist • 59 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
💼 Business Job Changes Recruitment Career development Corporate strategy Leadership
  1. There were ten notable job changes recently, showcasing how companies are promoting and hiring talent in key positions.
  2. Major positions were filled at influential companies like Google, Salesforce, and Pinterest, indicating strong movements in the tech and business sectors.
  3. Staying updated on these job changes can help investors and recruiters spot talent and assess market trends.

Why True Friendship is Built on Unconditional Kindness

The Profile • 277 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
💼 Business Leadership Entrepreneurship Corporate strategy Work Culture Economic Trends
  1. Kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. Small acts of kindness can create lasting memories and connections.
  2. People often remember those who showed them genuine kindness over time. It's those warm moments that stand out in our hearts.
  3. Choosing kindness in tough situations is rare but important. It can help people feel seen and supported when they need it the most.

UnitedHealth Group – a Real Life Majin Buu: The Art of Absorbing Everything in Sight

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 679 implied HN points • 14 Aug 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare policy Health Insurance Market dominance Corporate strategy Public Health
  1. UnitedHealth Group is a massive company that has grown by buying up other businesses in healthcare. This makes it very influential in many areas of the industry.
  2. Like the Dragon Ball Z character Majin Buu, UnitedHealth absorbs other companies to become stronger and extend its reach. This strategy helps them dominate the healthcare market.
  3. The unchecked power of companies like UnitedHealth can have serious consequences for regular people, leading to higher costs and fewer choices in healthcare.

Notes on Chapter 29

Life Since the Baby Boom • 922 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Internet Software Silicon Valley Corporate strategy
  1. Janet leaves her job at 3Com to work at Netscape during a hectic time in the tech industry. Many developers worked long hours, often staying late into the night.
  2. Netscape was seen as a major threat to Microsoft because of its browser capabilities. The belief was that if everything could be done through a browser, the operating system wouldn’t matter much.
  3. There were shady practices in Silicon Valley, including how Microsoft tried to hinder Netscape's success. This atmosphere led to a sense of distrust among companies during that era.

The Fox Logo Burned into the Television

Residual Thoughts • 59 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political Discourse Cultural impact Corporate strategy
  1. Fox News grew because it tapped into a market that older networks ignored, particularly conservative viewers. This audience felt left out and found a home with Fox.
  2. The rise of Fox News shows how big companies can overlook parts of the market due to their internal culture. In this case, traditional networks had a liberal bias that prevented them from recognizing conservative viewers' needs.
  3. As Fox News became a big player, new competitors emerged that might offer even more extreme views. This is a cycle where big companies can become out of touch and risk being disrupted again.

Garmin's ~$40B Pivot

SatPost by Trung Phan • 175 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
💼 Business Corporate strategy Finance Product Development
  1. Garmin transformed from an automotive GPS company to a leader in fitness watches by investing heavily in research and development. This shift helped it survive the competition from tech giants like Apple and Google.
  2. The company showed strong adaptability when its core automotive market declined, successfully pivoting to fitness and outdoor activities by creating specialized products like GPS-enabled watches for runners.
  3. Garmin's commitment to innovation and vertical integration has allowed it to maintain high-quality standards and respond quickly to market changes, helping it compete effectively despite challenges from larger tech companies.

How utilities and big oil broke the economic model of offshore wind

Jérôme à Paris • 1069 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Renewable Energy Regulation Energy Policy Market Dynamics Corporate strategy
  1. Offshore wind is struggling right now because many companies are trying to sell their projects but are facing lower prices and high costs. Competition has dropped as big companies pushed out smaller players.
  2. Big utilities tried to regain control of the market through lobbying and moving into new areas, but this led to financial misjudgments and a bubble that has now burst, causing many to exit offshore wind.
  3. Despite the current challenges, offshore wind can still be a viable energy source especially in Europe, as countries look to create fair competition and avoid barriers that exclude smaller developers.

The "Brilliant" Idea that Saved The Economy and Killed The Future

OK Doomer • 111 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
💼 Business Economics Marketing Innovation Product Design Corporate strategy
  1. A group of light bulb companies created a plan to make bulbs that burnt out faster, so people would buy more. This was done under the false idea that they were improving efficiency.
  2. In the 1990s, a company launched a cheaper printer but actually just made minor changes instead of improving the product. They found clever ways to cut costs without giving customers a better deal.
  3. These examples show how businesses can prioritize profit over quality, tricking consumers into spending more money without a real benefit.

The Bear Cave #248

The Bear Cave • 583 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
💼 Business Finance Investing Corporate strategy Market Analysis Business Ethics
  1. Culper Research claims Zeta Global Holdings is involved in shady practices, including false data and deceptive websites to gather consumer information. They think Zeta's stock price is too high and expect it to drop soon.
  2. There have been several high-profile resignations among executives in various companies, highlighting instability in leadership. It's concerning when CFOs and CEOs leave, especially in such quick succession.
  3. Recent reports have raised concerns about financial discrepancies in VusionGroup, which may indicate larger issues within the company. The connection with a major Chinese partner raises further questions about its operations.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers: HRTech Edition

Human Capitalist • 119 implied HN points • 23 Sep 24
💼 Business Human Resources Job Market Technology Adoption Corporate strategy Talent Acquisition
  1. There are many recent job changes in the HR field, highlighting the fluid nature of careers in this sector.
  2. Some notable professionals have taken on new roles, which can impact their companies and the industry overall.
  3. Tracking job changes can provide valuable insights for investors, recruiters, and businesses looking to stay informed about talent trends.

Advice for Nike and the NFL

House of Strauss • 41 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Advertising Sports Corporate strategy Consumer behavior
  1. Nike's focus on women's sports in ads is driven by the potential to tap into a huge female consumer market. They want to reach more buyers and expand their brand.
  2. Current ads from Nike and the NFL may not resonate well with audiences as they seem outdated. The messaging could benefit from being more simple and relatable.
  3. A family-centric approach, like emotional storytelling, could be a more effective way for these brands to connect with viewers in their ads.

Disney's ~$4B Acquisition That (Probably) Saved The Company

SatPost by Trung Phan • 79 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
💼 Business Corporate strategy Mergers & Acquisitions Entertainment industry Streaming services Market Trends
  1. Disney made a smart $4 billion purchase of BAMTech to help launch Disney+ and compete with Netflix. This move was key for its success in the streaming market.
  2. BAMTech was originally part of MLB and became a leader in streaming technology, proving essential for Disney's various streaming services like ESPN+ and Hulu.
  3. Disney's pivot to streaming was risky but necessary, as it allowed the company to adapt to changing media trends and focus on digital content, which is now vital for its growth.

Why Data Teams Need to Understand Metrics: A Look at Starbucks’ Comparable Store Sales

SeattleDataGuy’s Newsletter • 447 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
💼 Business Metrics Data Analysis Corporate strategy Revenue management
  1. Data teams need to know the main numbers that matter for their business. This helps them understand how the company is performing.
  2. High-level metrics like revenue and expenses can seem too big to grasp. Breaking these down into smaller parts makes them easier to understand.
  3. These smaller, detailed metrics can reveal valuable insights that affect decisions and strategies for the business.

AI Roundup 102: The Stargate Project

Artificial Ignorance • 71 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Data Centers Geopolitics Corporate strategy Research & Development
  1. The Stargate Project is a huge partnership by OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle to build new AI data centers in the U.S., promising up to $500 billion investment. This is much larger than past projects like the Manhattan and Apollo projects.
  2. China is making fast progress in AI, with new models from companies like DeepSeek that can compete with major Western models. This raises concerns for leading U.S. labs about staying ahead in AI technology.
  3. There are new challenges in measuring AI performance since current benchmarks are not effective anymore. A new test called 'Humanity's Last Exam' highlights this issue as AI systems advance beyond human-level capabilities.

Predictable Chaos: Trump’s Tariffs and the Fragility of Global Supply Chains

Gad’s Newsletter • 23 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
💼 Business Trade policy Supply Chain Economic Impact Corporate strategy Market Analysis
  1. Tariffs can hurt both businesses and consumers by increasing costs, leading to higher prices for goods. Companies that depend on global supply chains may struggle to adapt to these changes.
  2. Supply chains are fragile and can get disrupted easily. When one part faces issues, it can affect the entire chain, leading to bigger economic problems.
  3. Flexibility in supply chains is important. Businesses need to have options for different suppliers and production routes to handle unexpected changes and avoid significant losses.

Wanna career? Move to the center!

Wednesday Wisdom • 132 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
💼 Business Career Advice Corporate strategy Work Culture Employee Development Remote work
  1. To boost your career, it's often best to move to the 'center' of power in a company. The best projects and biggest opportunities usually happen there.
  2. Being on the 'periphery' can lead to a satisfying career, but you may miss out on important projects and promotions. It might feel tough to get noticed from the outside.
  3. While working at the center can bring many advantages, it's important to choose what matters most to you. Sometimes a good quality of life is worth more than climbing the corporate ladder.

ONE IMAGE: HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES FROM 2020: The Moment I Realized Intel Was in Huge Trouble—But I Did Not See the TSMC-NVIDIA Angle

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 161 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Hardware Semiconductors Innovation Corporate strategy Industry Analysis
  1. Intel has been struggling to keep up with competitors like TSMC and Apple, especially in chip performance and manufacturing processes. This gap has raised concerns about Intel's future viability.
  2. Performance per watt is becoming more important in chip design, meaning companies like Apple that focus on this can gain a significant advantage over others, including Intel.
  3. Many believe Intel is in a tough spot with little hope for recovery. If things don’t improve, its value may only come from any cash payments the government might offer, rather than from future profits.

How the Product Bubble Burst

Cold Water • 20 HN points • 10 Sep 24
💼 Business Economics Finance Investment Corporate strategy Market Trends
  1. The Product Management bubble is bursting because the real economy and asset economy are becoming more disconnected. Investors were putting money into tech stories that weren't delivering real value.
  2. After years of inflated asset prices, investors now require proof of value rather than just potential. This shift is leading to a tougher environment for tech and startups.
  3. The rise of interest rates means tech companies can no longer just rely on good narratives without tangible results. Many jobs in the tech sector are at risk because of this change.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers (8/12)

Human Capitalist • 119 implied HN points • 13 Aug 24
💼 Business Job Market Career Changes Human Resources Corporate strategy Workforce Trends
  1. Many people are changing jobs in interesting ways, showing shifts in the job market. It’s worth noting when top talent moves to new companies.
  2. Some companies are aiming for global expansion, which adds to their value. This can affect how businesses compete and grow.
  3. The ongoing competition between Lyft and Uber highlights the importance of both financial performance and talent management in the ridesharing industry.

Trust as the Next Great Commodity

Kyla’s Newsletter • 85 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
💼 Business Investment Finance Economics Market Trends Corporate strategy
  1. Trust is becoming really important and is now seen as a valuable resource. In a world where trust is low, it's crucial to find ways to invest in trust.
  2. There are different strategies for investing based on trust levels. You can focus on protection in uncertain times or on building a better system for the future.
  3. To succeed in this low-trust environment, we need to focus on realigning society by building trust, understanding truth, and reaching consensus to create a stable future.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers (7/22)

Human Capitalist • 159 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
💼 Business Job Market Career Changes Corporate strategy Workforce Insights Leadership
  1. Many people changed jobs recently, including key leaders in companies like DoorDash and PepsiCo. These moves can show new strategies that companies might adopt.
  2. Some job changes could lead to interesting collaboration opportunities. For example, leaders moving to new companies might team up for projects that benefit both.
  3. Keeping an eye on job changes can help people understand market trends and potential shifts in industries. Knowing who is moving can help you anticipate business developments.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers #2

Human Capitalist • 458 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
💼 Business Job Changes Industry Trends Leadership Career growth Corporate strategy
  1. Several notable professionals recently changed jobs, showcasing their expertise in various industries, like AI, space, and cybersecurity.
  2. These job changes highlight the importance of strong leadership in tech and data-driven sectors, suggesting that skilled leaders can significantly impact a company's growth.
  3. Monitoring job changes can provide valuable insights for investors, recruiters, and professionals looking to network or track talent in their industry.

How Vail Resorts Unique Business Model Led To A Strike In Park City (and why they don't care)

Huddle Up • 25 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
💼 Business Corporate strategy Labor relations Market Trends Financial Performance
  1. Vail Resorts' strategy of buying multiple ski resorts has led to a strike at Park City due to rising costs for employees. Over 200 workers are protesting for better wages and benefits.
  2. The strike is affecting the resort's capacity, with many trails closed and lifts not operating. This has led to long lines and unhappy guests during a peak time for skiing.
  3. Despite earning substantial profits, Vail Resorts seems uninterested in meeting the employees' demands. This highlights how corporate priorities can harm both worker conditions and customer experiences.

AI's Winners, Losers and Wannabes: Valuing the AI Boost at NVIDIA

Musings on Markets • 1179 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
💼 Business Investing Market Trends Stock Valuation Technology impact Corporate strategy
  1. The semiconductor industry has seen cycles of growth and maturity, with significant changes in who the biggest players are over time. Companies like NVIDIA have found success by targeting profitable niche markets.
  2. AI technology is currently a hot topic, with companies like NVIDIA and Microsoft seen as leaders. However, investors should be careful as many companies may falsely claim to be AI-focused, leading to potential losses if the wrong ones are chosen.
  3. When investing in AI-related companies, it's important to remember that not all will succeed. Past technological changes show that disruptive innovations can create a few big winners but also many failures.

Hub-and-Spoke Biotechs: Nimbus Therapeutics

The Century of Biology • 354 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
💼 Business Biotech Pharmaceuticals Investments Corporate strategy Drug Development
  1. Nimbus Therapeutics uses a unique hub-and-spoke model to develop drugs. This lets them separate the main company from individual drug projects, so they can sell successful drugs while keeping the main business intact.
  2. The company focuses on computational drug discovery to make the process faster and cheaper. By using advanced technology, they can predict which drugs might succeed before doing expensive experiments.
  3. Nimbus has successfully sold several drug assets, demonstrating the effectiveness of their model. They show that a biotech can grow and make money while being flexible and innovative.

The Checkmate Move

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 479 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Design Hardware Corporate strategy
  1. Sam Altman is looking for talented people to challenge Apple, especially those who have worked on its products like the iPhone.
  2. He has teamed up with Jony Ive, a famous designer known for the iPhone, to work on a new AI hardware project.
  3. Altman's efforts show he's serious about competing in the tech scene and bringing fresh ideas to the market.

The Rise and Fall of Intel: Lessons from Innovation and Organizational Challenges

Gad’s Newsletter • 44 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
💼 Business Corporate strategy Organizational Culture Market Dynamics Technology Trends
  1. Intel struggled to adapt to changes in technology, especially with the rise of mobile devices and AI. They stuck to their old strategies and missed many opportunities to innovate.
  2. The company faced challenges because of its rigid organizational structure. Intel's way of doing things made it hard to cooperate with others and change, which limited their ability to compete.
  3. Intel's company culture went from being driven to perfection to becoming more bureaucratic and slow. This change hurt their ability to innovate and respond to new challenges in the industry.

After Wall Street balks, Cigna calls off Humana merger and instead is set to buy back up to $11.3 billion of its shares in gift to investors

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 419 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
💼 Business Healthcare Investments Mergers Stock Market Corporate strategy
  1. Cigna decided not to merge with Humana after Wall Street reacted negatively to the idea. Instead, they will buy back $11.3 billion worth of their shares to please investors.
  2. Cigna's stock dropped significantly when the merger news broke but soared back up after the buyback announcement. This shows how much Wall Street values quick returns over company growth strategies.
  3. The share buyback won't help improve healthcare access or quality for Cigna's customers. It's mainly a move to boost stock prices and please shareholders.

"Pivot Global" Interview Video

Japan Economy Watch • 159 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Economy Stock Market Corporate strategy Innovation
  1. The interview covers various topics such as the state of Japan's economy, stock market, wages, and strategies of niche companies
  2. There is discussion on the importance of new entrepreneurs in driving positive social changes in Japan
  3. The interview highlights the potential for Japan's economic recovery through embracing innovation, new companies, and adapting to changing business dynamics