The hottest Finance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics
SuperJoost Playlist 238 implied HN points 10 Oct 24
  1. A financial report claims Roblox might have been lying about its user numbers, saying they inflate how many people really play the game each day.
  2. The report also points out safety issues for kids, saying Roblox doesn't do enough to protect young users from inappropriate content and predators.
  3. Lastly, there's a concern that Roblox could struggle to grow due to reaching most of its potential markets, which might affect its future profits.
More Than Moore 326 implied HN points 31 Jan 25
  1. Intel had a rough 2024 but showed some improvement in Q4, with revenue slightly up from Q3.
  2. The company is focusing on its new 18A technology and is getting funding to support its manufacturing efforts.
  3. While Intel is still facing challenges, especially in the AI and GPU market, there's cautious optimism for future products like Panther Lake and Nova Lake.
Astral Codex Ten 6400 implied HN points 14 Jan 25
  1. You can subscribe to Astral Codex Ten for paid access, which includes extra articles and special threads for subscribers. It's a chance to support the blog and get more content.
  2. The blog had strong subscriber growth at first but has seen a drop in recent years. The author encourages financial support but understands if people cannot afford it.
  3. Several subscriber-only posts offer unique insights, covering topics like historical figures and personal reflections. When you subscribe, you can access a lot of great content.
The VC Corner 759 implied HN points 23 Aug 24
  1. Understanding the size of your market is crucial for attracting investors and growing your business. A clear market size can make your pitch stand out.
  2. Market sizing involves knowing categories like Total Addressable Market (TAM) and Serviceable Available Market (SAM). These help you understand how big your market really is and how much of it you can reach.
  3. Many founders get stuck on the idea of a 'billion-dollar market'. It's important to look at market size more deeply, rather than just chasing big numbers. This helps avoid bad assumptions and discover real opportunities.
HEALTH CARE un-covered 1139 implied HN points 08 Aug 24
  1. Many seniors using Medicare Advantage may soon face tough choices as big companies like Aetna and Humana say their plans aren't as profitable as expected. This could lead to changes that affect healthcare access and costs for those enrolled.
  2. As these companies look to boost profits, they may increase scrutiny on medical claims and require more approvals for treatments. This means patients could find it harder to get the care they need.
  3. Some seniors might end up losing their Medicare Advantage plans entirely, forcing them into new plans with less coverage and higher costs. This shift could leave many feeling trapped and worried about their healthcare options.
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More Than Moore 280 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. ASML had a great Q4 in 2024, with revenue hitting €9.3 billion, which is a 28% increase from the previous year. This makes it their highest earning quarter ever.
  2. The company shipped a total of 132 lithography machines in Q4, marking a strong demand for their products. They even sold their first High-NA EUV systems during this time.
  3. For 2025, ASML expects to continue growing with projected revenue between €30 billion and €35 billion. They are optimistic about increased sales in the AI chip market.
BIG by Matt Stoller 20856 implied HN points 14 Feb 24
  1. The oil and gas industry is going through a significant wave of consolidation, with mega-mergers happening between major companies.
  2. The mergers and acquisitions in the industry are driven by challenges in increasing production, high finance strategies, and the desire to showcase access to reserves to investors.
  3. The consolidation will likely lead to squeezed suppliers, reduced innovation, and a shift of industry power from domestic firms to global entities.
Huddle Up 46 implied HN points 20 Jun 25
  1. Mark Walter just bought the Lakers for $10 billion, making it the most expensive sports franchise sale in U.S. history.
  2. Jerry Buss, who originally bought the Lakers for $67.5 million, transformed the team and the NBA with innovative business strategies.
  3. Walter is known for his smart ownership approach, focusing on winning and hiring talented people, which has brought success to the teams he manages.
Parth's Playground 25 implied HN points 10 Jun 25
  1. Technology goes through cycles of creation and adoption every 50 years. These cycles start with new technology being developed and then used by people, leading to big changes in society.
  2. Financial crises often happen in the middle of these cycles to clear out old ways of doing things and make space for new technologies to grow and connect with each other.
  3. Each new technology builds on past innovations, creating new opportunities. So, understanding where a technology is in its life cycle can help you know its potential and value.
Magis 127 implied HN points 03 Jun 25
  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.
Bet On It 55 implied HN points 12 Jun 25
  1. Supporting market growth is important for businesses. It helps create jobs and increases the economy.
  2. Talking openly about ideas can lead to better understanding and discussions. It's good to share different perspectives.
  3. Meetups can help connect people who share similar interests. It's a great way to make new friends and learn from each other.
Fintech Business Weekly 163 implied HN points 25 May 25
  1. Mercury is trying a bold strategy by taking on risky clients, which can bring high rewards but also big challenges. They might face pushback from regulators because of this approach.
  2. The CEO of Mercury has personally asked for special permission to work with OnlyFans, showing their commitment to controversial business opportunities.
  3. Evolve's bank holding company seems to be in financial trouble, indicating that not all fintech companies are succeeding in this high-risk environment.
Alex's Personal Blog 131 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Twitter's financial health has changed a lot since Musk bought it. Today, it makes less money but is more profitable than before.
  2. There are mixed opinions about the future of AI startups and cloud services. Some believe they'll thrive, while others think they'll face tough competition and slim profits.
  3. Some companies, like Deel and Glean, are doing well in the AI space. They've shown strong growth and profitability, even in a tough market.
Alex's Personal Blog 32 implied HN points 21 Feb 25
  1. Advertisers are feeling pressure from X to spend more, as there are concerns about political consequences if they don't. This shows a shift in how government and business interact.
  2. Block's recent earnings report missed expectations, raising concerns for the fintech sector. Although not devastating, this might delay new company launches in the industry.
  3. Coinbase has had a legal win against the SEC, which could open doors for more crypto companies. Without strong regulations, this market may see both opportunities and risks for investors.
Points And Figures 373 implied HN points 14 Jan 25
  1. Startups should keep their investors updated regularly, like every quarter. Simple updates help investors stay engaged and offer support.
  2. When updating, focus on key points like growth rates, income or losses, and any future capital raising. It's best to keep it clear and short.
  3. Investors can be valuable beyond just their money. They can help with introductions and potential partnerships, so it's crucial to communicate effectively with them.
Noahpinion 11588 implied HN points 02 Mar 24
  1. Traditional banks aren't willing to take on the risks associated with financing small real estate development projects due to the complex and risky nature of construction work.
  2. Small developers struggle to access financing from traditional lenders because they lack the track record and financial resources required to secure loans, creating a barrier to entry in the industry.
  3. Institutionalization of real estate development by large firms can lead to a loss of community identity, charm, and personalized building designs, highlighting the importance of supporting small developers in creating unique and vibrant neighborhoods.
Alex's Personal Blog 65 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Robot butlers may become affordable in the near future due to advancements in technology. This could change how we manage household tasks.
  2. Recent investments in AI and robotics indicate a growing market. Companies are receiving significant funding to improve technology and services.
  3. The political landscape is affecting tech policies and decisions. Changes in leadership might lead to new directions for tech regulations and innovations.
Big Technology 5504 implied HN points 18 Oct 24
  1. OpenAI plans to change how it looks at training costs, suggesting these might not be fixed over time. This could impact their profits, as training expenses are significant.
  2. OpenAI believes that ChatGPT will generate more revenue than its API, showing confidence in its widespread use. They expect more people will want to interact with AI in the future, which could be risky if the growth doesn’t happen as hoped.
  3. OpenAI is already making big payments to Microsoft, which is one reason they expect to lose a lot of money this year. If their losses continue at this rate, they will need to raise more money soon.
The VC Corner 719 implied HN points 22 Jul 24
  1. A data room is a secure online space where startups keep important documents for investors. It shows you're organized and ready to share details about your business.
  2. Having a well-prepared data room can save time and build trust with investors. It helps them understand your company's operations and financial health better.
  3. When setting up a data room, choose good software, organize your documents, and control who can see what. This ensures sensitive information stays safe while sharing essential details.
The ZIPster 26 implied HN points 21 Feb 25
  1. Expanding a business into new markets can be really tricky. Many companies assume they will succeed without understanding local culture or costs, and that can lead to big losses.
  2. Hiring the right people is essential, especially in new regions. You need experienced local managers who understand the market and can connect with customers.
  3. Sometimes, it's better to focus on nearby markets instead of chasing distant dreams. Building strong local partnerships can lead to better results without unnecessary risks.
DeFi Education 719 implied HN points 19 Jul 24
  1. DeFi, or decentralized finance, allows people to access financial services directly over the internet without needing banks. This is exciting because it can reduce costs and frustrations from traditional banking.
  2. Many people still view DeFi as complicated or risky due to past scams. However, there's a growing acceptance from governments and institutions that could help improve its image.
  3. The future of DeFi looks promising as big companies start to embrace its technology. It’s important for people to learn about DeFi now since it will likely become a key part of the financial system in the coming years.
Peter Navarro's Taking Back Trump's America 9159 implied HN points 22 Feb 23
  1. World Health Organization has faced criticism regarding its handling of the pandemic in relation to the US.
  2. US taxpayers may be disproportionately burdened financially in upcoming WHO agreements.
  3. Concerns raised over potential loss of American sovereignty in decisions made by the WHO.
The Honest Broker 14196 implied HN points 27 Feb 24
  1. Reddit relies heavily on unpaid labor with 60,000 daily active moderators compared to around 2,000 employees.
  2. After 18 years, Reddit still isn't profitable, accumulating a $717 million deficit, but it shows potential for profitability with increasing revenues and reduced losses.
  3. Reddit's CEO earned $193 million last year, prompting questions about excessive compensation, and Reddit is heavily reliant on advertising for revenue, putting it in a risky position concerning Google competition.
SatPost by Trung Phan 175 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  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.
2nd Smartest Guy in the World 4658 implied HN points 15 Jan 24
  1. Vivek Ramaswamy made millions from biotech companies that failed, leading to accusations of running a Ponzi Scheme.
  2. Ramaswamy has been critiquing corporations engaging in what he calls 'socially conscious investing' as a threat to America's well-being.
  3. Despite accusations and controversies, Ramaswamy's net worth has been estimated to be over $950 million, raising questions about his business practices.
Where's Your Ed At 21068 implied HN points 13 Sep 23
  1. Elon Musk has significant influence due to his wealth and power, and his actions can negatively impact global events.
  2. Musk's decisions, personal beliefs, and interactions with authoritarian regimes raise concerns about his potential misuse of power.
  3. Coverage of Musk should shift to recognize him as a harmful actor who prioritizes his desires over societal well-being.
More Than Moore 46 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Arm's recent financial results show a big increase in revenue, largely thanks to the growing demand for AI and new technology. They set records in both total and royalty revenues this quarter.
  2. The company is heavily investing in research and development, increasing their spending and hiring more engineers to stay competitive. This is helping them innovate and improve their products.
  3. Arm faces competition from other chip designers and ecosystems like RISC-V, so they must navigate these challenges carefully to maintain their market share and continue growing.
The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday 1639 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. Wealth doesn't guarantee freedom. Even billionaires serve someone and often compromise their principles.
  2. Charisma and social influence can be more powerful than money. Being likable and persuasive can get people further in many situations.
  3. Cultural power matters more than financial power. Those with money often want to control how they're perceived and fear being ridiculed.
The Honest Broker 22673 implied HN points 28 Jul 23
  1. Spotify's CEO sold $100 million in stock amidst the company's increasing losses, causing concern among investors.
  2. Streaming companies like Netflix and Disney are heavily investing in AI technology, potentially replacing human creativity with bots.
  3. Music streaming platforms like Spotify prioritize profit over user experience, creating a bland and generic listening environment.
DeFi Education 519 implied HN points 14 Jul 24
  1. The Q&A sessions provide expert insights from knowledgeable professionals in finance and crypto. This helps people understand complex topics better.
  2. These sessions are designed to keep subscribers informed about the latest trends in the DeFi space. Staying updated is important for making smart decisions.
  3. The content is aimed at both new and experienced individuals in the crypto world. Everyone can benefit from the shared knowledge.
FreakTakes 14 implied HN points 20 Jun 25
  1. BBNs are new types of organizations focused on research and development, similar to consulting firms but with a broader impact aim. They need new funding models to support their unique financial challenges.
  2. Common financial problems for BBNs include cash flow issues, startup capital needs, and the need for risk capital. They often require funding before their contracts and grants pay out, which complicates their operations.
  3. There are ideas for new financial products that could help BBNs, like low-interest loans or revolving door loan funds. These could provide timely financial support and help BBNs grow and innovate.
The ZIPster 35 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. Starting a business without a formal plan can still lead to success, especially if you're adaptable and listen to your customers.
  2. Entering new markets can be tricky; familiarity with local culture and practices is very important to avoid mistakes.
  3. It's better to focus on areas where you have experience and can easily connect with customers, rather than spreading too thin in unfamiliar locations.
Doomberg 10309 implied HN points 28 Feb 24
  1. It's important for analysts to reflect on their past work to improve and learn from mistakes.
  2. Understanding the political landscape is crucial for predicting market trends, especially in energy markets.
  3. The strategy of imposing sanctions against Russia may be ineffective and could have negative consequences on the global financial system.
Striking 13 2515 implied HN points 01 Mar 24
  1. The UK's Rwanda scheme is shown to be financially insane, with exorbitant costs and no real impact, according to a recent report.
  2. The Home Office's approach to the scheme is criticized for its irrationality, waste of money, and failure to address the asylum backlog effectively.
  3. Comparison with the costs of a functioning asylum system highlights the extreme financial inefficiency and lack of logic in the Rwanda scheme.
DeFi Education 839 implied HN points 08 Jun 24
  1. There are different blockchain ecosystems called Layer 1, Layer 2, and Layer 3, and each has its own use and benefits. Understanding these layers can help you decide where to invest your time and money.
  2. Layer 2 solutions help blockchains process more transactions efficiently by using off-chain data to save on resources. This means faster transactions and lower costs, making them a hot spot in the crypto world.
  3. Layer 3 is a newer concept that sits on top of Layer 2, focusing on specific apps and improving their functionality. While still experimental, investing in Layer 3 can present unique opportunities.
Where's Your Ed At 13056 implied HN points 26 Oct 23
  1. Elon Musk is perceived as a modern-day hustler, skilled at manipulating media and markets without creating tangible value.
  2. Musk's success lies in picking companies and products that promise eternal growth, even if the reality doesn't align with the hype.
  3. The acquisitions of SolarCity, Twitter, and the Cybertruck showcase Musk playing outside the odds, relying on emotion, and making risky bets.
The VC Corner 559 implied HN points 28 Jun 24
  1. Every startup needs a strong pitch deck to impress investors. It's not just about showing what you've done, but telling a compelling story about what you can achieve.
  2. Following a clear structure for your pitch deck helps you address investors' concerns. You need to present your vision and strengths in a way that resonates.
  3. These ten essential slides can make your pitch memorable. They help highlight your potential and build a narrative that investors can connect with.
The Beautiful Mess 1031 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Capacity in software development isn't just about how many hours people work. It's more complicated and depends on past investments and the overall work environment.
  2. Oversimplifying capacity can lead to poor decisions. You need to consider many factors, like team dynamics and the quality of work, rather than just time spent on tasks.
  3. When asked about spending, it's better to focus on how investments improve future capacity instead of just breaking down hours. Understanding the bigger picture is key.