The hottest Finance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics

A Creative's Guide on Starting a Company

The Intersection • 197 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. Starting a company requires finding a trigger like the right people, money, or a solid idea.
  2. Taking on the financial responsibilities of a company involves doing the math, saving money, and being prepared to hustle.
  3. Building your personal and company brand is crucial through authenticity and developing a distinct voice.

Avio under the microscope

Europe in Space • 196 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. Avio received a significant funding from European Union for space programs, raising questions on allocation of funds.
  2. Avio faced quality control issues in rocket launches, leading to failures and significant financial losses.
  3. Avio's financial activities, CEO remuneration, and conflicts of interest are under scrutiny amidst stock buybacks and public funding support.

Letters #82/83: Evan Spiegel and Mitch Lasky (2014)

A Letter a Day • 196 implied HN points • 16 May 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. Email exchange between Evan Spiegel and Mitch Lasky focused on financing, hiring, and communicating with Facebook
  2. Discussion on the importance of sustainable monetization before seeking high valuations and the need for strategic hiring for growth
  3. Insight into the market conditions, the importance of revenue generation, and Snapchat's focus on innovation and growth

Plandemic playbook (3) $5TRILLION spent on Covid by the US government; $400billion was misused and half of that went to organized foreign criminals in the biggest transfer of wealth in history

DrV’s Newsletter, Notes, Essays, Articles, Videos, and Book Chapters • 196 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
📰 News Finance
  1. $5 trillion spent by the US government on Covid.
  2. $400 billion was misused, half to organized foreign crime syndicates.
  3. This is the biggest transfer of wealth in history due to medical fraud.
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Projects don't pencil.

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 231 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
💼 Business Finance
  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.

Which Is The Better Option For Growth Funding: Venture Debt or Venture Capital?

Venture Curator • 199 implied HN points • 30 Jun 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. If you're deciding between venture debt or venture capital for growth funding, venture debt can be a cheaper option for founders due to lower overall costs.
  2. Venture debt involves warrant coverage, which gives the holder the right to purchase company stock at a set price within a specific period.
  3. Understanding the financial implications of each funding option, such as equity dilution and interest payments, is crucial for making the best decision for your startup's growth.

GenAI for Hedge Funds Startups

Magis • 127 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
💼 Business Finance
  1. Hedge funds are using AI to be more productive and to find new investment opportunities. Many startups are working in this area with various backgrounds and experiences.
  2. There is no clear leader in the AI startup space for hedge funds yet, as many companies are still developing their products. The founder backgrounds vary widely, from PhDs to former hedge fund workers.
  3. A list of AI startups focused on hedge funds has been compiled, and input is welcomed to make it more complete. If someone is looking for a job in this field, they are encouraged to reach out.

Why The Emphasis On Transgender?

Points And Figures • 719 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Finance
  1. The emphasis on transgender issues has shifted from other social issues due to the potential financial incentives and long-term profit from transgender-related treatments and services.
  2. Businesses analyze customer acquisition costs and cash flows to understand why certain decisions are made regarding transgenderism and abortion, showing that transgender-related treatments offer a more sustainable revenue stream compared to abortion services.
  3. The transgender industry presents a significant financial opportunity, with ongoing cash flows from hormone treatments, surgeries, and other related services, highlighting the motivations behind the push for transgenderism acceptance and coverage by insurance companies.

The DeFi Roundup (January 7, 2023) + Q&A!

DeFi Education • 499 implied HN points • 07 Jan 23
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. DeFi is constantly changing, and it's important to stay updated on the latest news and trends. Keeping an eye on the upcoming week can help you be prepared.
  2. This platform focuses on delivering important information about various DeFi protocols, which helps users know what to watch for.
  3. The content is created for paid subscribers, ensuring that they receive exclusive and actionable insights.

What Is DeFi Education?

DeFi Education • 719 implied HN points • 18 Aug 22
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. DeFi Education offers independent and high-quality research on crypto. They focus on helping people understand complex topics in the crypto world without the influence of paid promotions.
  2. The mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions in the crypto space, avoiding scams and bad investments.
  3. They have built a strong community of readers, ranging from beginners to experts, who share valuable insights and support each other in navigating the fast-changing crypto landscape.

Abe Left Japan’s Economy Worse Than He Found It

Japan Economy Watch • 519 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
💼 Business Finance
  1. Shinzo Abe failed to improve Japan's economy during his tenure as Prime Minister, falling short of his promises and leaving living standards on a decline
  2. Abe's economic policies led to suppressed GDP growth, low wages, and a shift in national income from people to corporations
  3. Despite claimed achievements like 'womenomics' and ending deflation, Abe's tenure was marked by hollow measures and missed opportunities for real structural economic reforms

✨ The future of AI and the US economy, according to Goldman Sachs

Faster, Please! • 365 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
💼 Business Finance
  1. Goldman Sachs sees AI improving productivity, but not as a big game changer right away. They think its impact will be more like the rise of personal computers and the internet.
  2. While AI might boost GDP growth in the coming years, it will mostly help with efficiency by automating easier tasks. The real economic benefit might take some time to show up.
  3. There’s a lot of uncertainty about how AI will play out, with both potential upsides and realistic challenges. Many companies are testing AI, but significant impacts may still be a few years away.

In Praise of Slow Motion

Kneeling Bus • 224 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Finance
  1. People are using rental cars for more than just driving, like napping or storing things. This shows a strange need for flexible space that traditional buildings don't meet.
  2. Many people spend a lot of time in parked cars, which might be surprising. It highlights a mismatch between what people need and what's available.
  3. Cheap money in the past allowed tech products to be offered at low prices, but it made basic needs like housing more expensive. This creates a gap between luxuries and essential needs.

Who’s raising, IPO updates, and what company is buying Grok?

Alex's Personal Blog • 98 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
💼 Business Finance
  1. Shein is planning to go public in Hong Kong, which is exciting news for investors. Although a US listing would be preferred, there is optimism about the move.
  2. Several companies have recently raised significant funding, including Bilt, which is known for its unique rent payment system. They reached a new valuation of $10.8 billion with a recent $250 million funding round.
  3. Grok 4, the new AI model, shows strong capabilities but also raises concerns about its reliance on the views of its founder, Elon Musk. This has led to questions about how competitive it will be against other AI models.

Crypto: Providing for Your Safety and Security in Emergencies

DeFi Education • 1019 implied HN points • 18 Feb 22
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. Crypto can help you feel safer during emergencies. It’s designed to protect your money when things get tough.
  2. Recent events show that having access to your funds is really important. We should pay attention to how DeFi can help in crises.
  3. Understanding the value of DeFi is essential for the long term. It’s not just about making money, but also about security and safety.

Payment Terms: Never

The Broccoli Report • 119 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
💼 Business Finance
  1. Unpaid invoices can be a major stress for freelancers and companies alike.
  2. It's crucial for businesses to seek trustworthy partners in order to avoid financial losses.
  3. California's cannabis industry faced challenges leading to unpaid invoices and closures.

The check isn't in the mail

Situation Normal • 80 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
💼 Business Finance
  1. Sometimes, invoices can get lost in the system and it might take a long time to get paid. A simple phone call can help solve these issues quickly.
  2. It's not uncommon to face payment problems in freelance work, and many people have stories about being stiffed for their work.
  3. Technology can make things complicated, but sometimes old-fashioned communication, like a phone call, can clear things up faster than emails or software.

From Google Blogger to Substack: Coming Soon!

Musings on Markets • 899 implied HN points • 25 Mar 22
💼 Business Finance
  1. The author started blogging in 2008 and has written over 600 posts on finance topics since then. This blogging experience has helped him rethink his views and develop new ideas.
  2. He is moving his blog from Google Blogger to Substack because it allows him to easily transfer his old posts and offers a better format for readers.
  3. Both platforms will continue to host his posts, and he encourages readers to choose between them while assuring that the experience will remain similar.

Why Did the Tesla Board Attempt to 'Ratify' Musk's Obscene Options Package Instead of Granting a New One?

lawrence’s Substack • 36 HN points • 13 May 24
💼 Business Finance
  1. The Tesla board attempted to 'ratify' Musk's 2018 options package instead of granting a new one due to legal challenges and potential losses for the company.
  2. Creating a new stock options grant for Musk would lead to massive expenses for Tesla and put the company in financial jeopardy.
  3. Musk does not want a new package as the prospects for Tesla's stock price growth have diminished, making a new reward less appealing, and also resulting in potential tax issues for him.

The DeFi Roundup (October 8, 2022)

DeFi Education • 599 implied HN points • 08 Oct 22
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. Celsius has revealed a huge spreadsheet with customer names and transactions as part of their bankruptcy. This move raises privacy concerns for many customers.
  2. The DeFi space is constantly evolving, and keeping up with weekly roundups helps investors stay informed. Quick updates can guide better decision-making.
  3. Being a paid subscriber can give you access to in-depth insights and analysis that is not available to free users. It can be worth it for those serious about investing.

The Holding Companies of Our Hearts

Investing 101 • 87 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
💼 Business Finance
  1. Everyone allocates resources, not just money, but also time and attention. People are basically investors in their own lives.
  2. Successful capital allocation is more about making smart, strategic decisions than just having money to spend. Great examples include companies like Berkshire Hathaway and Constellation Software.
  3. Venture capitalists often seek attention for their investing strategies, but it's the actual entrepreneurs and companies that are doing the hard work of building that are the real heroes.

How AI startups are building moats - by paying for them

Enterprise AI Trends • 443 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
💼 Business Finance
  1. AI startups need to spend a lot of money to build strong defenses, like buying data and companies, instead of just focusing on AI features.
  2. Having unique data is more valuable for AI startups than having great technology or user experience.
  3. Established companies have a big advantage because they already own important data. New AI startups may struggle to compete without something really special.

March 2023 Space Stock Review+ ULA M&A

Case Closed • 176 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. March and 1Q23 Market Overview: Space SPACs were down, legacy space stocks performed worse, and stock market volatility was influenced by changing expectations for interest rates and the economy.
  2. Space Stock Performance and Valuation: Different sectors performed differently, with manufacturing outperforming. Companies like SATL and LUNR were discussed for their valuation considerations.
  3. Analyzing the Potential Sale of United Launch Alliance: Speculation surrounds the potential sale of ULA, with Lockheed Martin likely to buy out Boeing's stake based on financial and strategic considerations.

Japan Reality Check #7: What has changed?

Japan Optimist • 176 implied HN points • 10 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Finance
  1. Valuations have changed with earnings and capital returns up, but PE multiples down in Japan.
  2. Ownership dynamics have shifted from domestic to global ownership in Japan's financial economy.
  3. Japan's financial markets reflect a mix of changes and continuities, offering lessons on progress and resilience.

Trump

Life in the 21st Century • 176 implied HN points • 06 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Finance
  1. Anecdote about meeting M.I.A. in Las Vegas and the unique experience that followed.
  2. Reflections on the financial system and Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan's impact.
  3. Call to Democrats to break up big banks like JPMorgan to prevent Trump's re-election.

The Satisfaction of Paying Bills

Kamui Whisky Newsletter • 176 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. Paying bills can bring a deep sense of satisfaction, especially after overcoming financial hurdles in a startup.
  2. Paying invoices quickly can have a positive impact on relationships with contractors, small businesses, and vendors.
  3. Prioritizing timely payment of invoices and bills is not only responsible but can also be a rewarding practice.

Progress

The Odin Times • 176 implied HN points • 23 Apr 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. The mission at Odin is to drive progress by reimagining how we invest.
  2. Women investors on Odin are more likely to invest in female-led businesses and healthcare.
  3. Increasing diversity in investors can lead to more investments in sectors like healthcare, education, and climate tech.

The Lifecycle of an Edtech Company - Part 1

system bashing • 176 implied HN points • 20 Jul 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. Starting small and doing what you love can lead to building a strong community and following.
  2. As a business grows, the transition from a passionate creator to a structured company can bring challenges in managing relationships and revenue.
  3. Scaling a startup involves evolving into a company with defined roles, managing financial aspects, and adapting to market demands.

CEO of Gig-work Surveillance Firm Resigns

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 752 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
💼 Business Finance
  1. CEO of Gig-work Surveillance Firm, Maury Blackman, resigned after years of court battles and exposure of clandestine surveillance.
  2. Premise Data, an analogue of Uber for data-gathering, faced revenue stagnation despite investments and high-profile board members.
  3. Blackman's resignation led to Matt McNabb taking over as CEO, revealing a history of controversial events and legal issues within Premise.

The DeFi Roundup (December 3, 2022)

DeFi Education • 499 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. The DeFi Roundup keeps you updated on important events and trends in decentralized finance. It's a great way to stay informed while others focus on major news.
  2. This report offers actionable insights and fun topics that can help you explore opportunities in DeFi. It's more about excitement than the usual heavy news.
  3. Instead of diving deep into negative stories, the roundup focuses on cooler and engaging content in the DeFi space that you might find useful.

Deep Dive: Maple Finance

DeFi Education • 499 implied HN points • 30 Nov 22
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. DeFi stands for decentralized finance, which means financial services that operate without central authorities or intermediaries. It's like banking without a bank, where everybody can access services freely.
  2. Maple Finance is a platform that combines finance technology with decentralized finance. It offers users a chance to lend and borrow funds in a decentralized way.
  3. The goal of DeFi is to create an open finance system accessible to anyone. It aims to improve transparency and inclusivity in financial transactions.

The Billionaire Tax Trick Fueling Record-High Sports Valuations

Huddle Up • 71 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🎾 Sports Finance
  1. WNBA team valuations increased significantly, even though the league lost money last season. This shows the market interest in women's sports is growing.
  2. Powerful team owners took action to protect their investments after policies impacted sports valuations negatively. Their influence helps shape the financial landscape of sports teams.
  3. Tax laws and political decisions can have a big effect on how much sports teams are worth. Changes in these laws can lead to record-high valuations.

Railgun: Hide Your DeFi Private Parts

DeFi Education • 939 implied HN points • 10 Feb 22
🔮 Crypto Finance
  1. DeFi transactions are public, which can expose your entire financial history. This means it's easy for anyone to see what you've been doing financially.
  2. Using the same device for different tasks can link your real identity to your DeFi activities, even if you think you're being anonymous.
  3. Railgun is a tool designed to help protect your privacy in DeFi, allowing you to manage your transactions more discreetly.

Elon Musk and The Intelligence Arms Race

The Pomp Letter • 319 implied HN points • 26 May 23
🕹 Technology Finance
  1. Elon Musk's Neuralink got FDA approval for human trials of brain-computer interface.
  2. This shows the fast pace of technology and its possible impact on financial markets.
  3. Brain-computer interfaces are direct communication pathways between brains and external devices.

Retiring Retirement

Workforce Futurist by Andy Spence • 293 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
💼 Business Finance
  1. The old idea of retiring at a fixed age is outdated as people are living longer and healthier lives. Instead of stopping work completely, we might consider blending work and leisure throughout our lives.
  2. It's important to take charge of our financial futures by saving separately and planning for our expenses when we stop traditional work. Building financial independence can help us make choices based on what we truly want.
  3. Finding work that is fulfilling and matches our values can make us not want to retire in the traditional sense. The goal is to create a life where work feels meaningful instead of just a job to escape from.