The hottest Finance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics

Roblox’s Hindenburg moment

SuperJoost Playlist • 238 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
💼 Business Finance Investments Tech Companies Market Trends Regulatory issues
  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.

TSM - It's Good to Be the King: 1 Trillion Incoming

Mule’s Musings • 366 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
💼 Business Finance Investments Market Trends Earnings Reports Technology
  1. TSMC has reported impressive growth, especially with a 35% increase in capital expenditures. This shows they are investing heavily in their future.
  2. The demand for AI-related products is driving TSMC's revenue, with expectations for AI revenue to double in 2025. This is a big part of their expected growth moving forward.
  3. As competitors struggle, TSMC is gaining market share and experiencing growing profits. They are on track to potentially become a trillion-dollar company.

Intel 2024 Q4 Financials

More Than Moore • 326 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
💼 Business Finance Technology Corporate Market Analysis Earnings Report
  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.

Subscrive Drive 2025 + Free Unlocked Posts

Astral Codex Ten • 6400 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
💼 Business Subscriptions Finance Marketing Media Economics
  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.

Market Sizing 101

The VC Corner • 759 implied HN points • 23 Aug 24
💼 Business Startups Investment Market Analysis Entrepreneurship Finance
  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.
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America’s Seniors Are About to Pay a High Price for Wall Street’s Growing Disenchantment with Medicare Advantage

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 1139 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Insurance Medicare Finance Policy
  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.

ASML 2024 Q4 Financials

More Than Moore • 280 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
💼 Business Finance Economics Investing Corporate Market Trends
  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.

Top Links 614 Fining crypto. Peak Starbucks in China. Labour on screen. Looking glass war.

Chartbook • 386 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🔮 Crypto Regulation Investment Technology Market Trends Finance
  1. There are discussions about fining crypto activities and the potential impact of regulations on the market.
  2. The idea of peak Starbucks in China suggests changing consumer behaviors and economic conditions affecting global brands.
  3. The mention of 'labour on screen' hints at the evolving relationship between work and digital platforms in today's society.

Fear and Consolidation in the Oil Patch

BIG by Matt Stoller • 20856 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
💼 Business Oil industry Mergers Finance Economy Competition
  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.

The Bear Cave #254

The Bear Cave • 489 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
💼 Business Finance Technology Resignation Investments Corporate Governance
  1. A blogger raised concerns about SoundHound AI, saying it may be losing clients to cheaper and better technology. This could mean big changes for the company.
  2. There have been several high-profile resignations at major companies like Fastenal and Arhaus. These leadership changes could affect their future performance.
  3. The weekly tweets section highlights some interesting social media discussions related to these companies. It's a good way to see what people are saying online.

Chartbook 340 Against synecdoche! … A plural taxonomy of capitalist globalization

Chartbook • 686 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
💼 Business Capitalism Globalization Economics Politics Finance
  1. Global capitalism is complex and can't just be understood as one single economy. Different sectors, like finance and agriculture, have their own unique ways of operating.
  2. It's important to recognize the different sectors of capitalism to fully understand how they interact. For example, globalization affects industries like manufacturing and real estate in distinct ways.
  3. By acknowledging that capitalism is made up of many different parts, we can avoid oversimplifying it and appreciate the specific factors at play in each aspect.

The Death of Intel: When Boards Fail

Mule’s Musings • 969 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
💼 Business Corporate Governance Management Finance Investments
  1. The Intel board is seen as unqualified, with many members lacking the necessary semiconductor experience. This has likely contributed to the company's ongoing struggles.
  2. Pat Gelsinger, the former CEO, was fired despite being technically skilled and wanting to help the company. His optimistic approach conflicted with the board's short-term focus.
  3. The board's focus on maximizing shareholder value might lead to harmful decisions like breaking up the company, which could hurt its long-term prospects and impact the industry and U.S. competitiveness.

This New Internet Thing, Chapter 30

Life Since the Baby Boom • 922 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Internet Startups Investment Software Finance
  1. Netscape went public and became super successful, even though they weren't making profits yet. People were excited about the potential for growth instead of just focusing on profits.
  2. The IPO day was a big moment, with the stock price skyrocketing to $74. This was a huge deal for the people involved, changing their lives and how they viewed their work.
  3. There was a shift in the tech world where everyone suddenly wanted to invest in Internet companies. It became a trend to have '.com' in a company's name, showing how fast things were changing.

Why I Don't Read Reddit

The Honest Broker • 14196 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
💼 Business Technology Finance Management Companies Economics
  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.

kitten corner: frozen assets

bad cattitude • 150 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
💼 Business Investing Startups Venture Capital Entrepreneurship Finance
  1. Being an angel investor means you're thinking about supporting new businesses. It's important to do your research before deciding.
  2. Pitching to you shows that startups are looking for funding and believe in their idea. This can be an exciting opportunity if you choose wisely.
  3. Always ask questions and get advice from experienced investors. They'll help you understand the risks and rewards involved.

The Bear Cave #253

The Bear Cave • 489 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
💼 Business Finance Investing Economics Corporate Governance Market Trends
  1. There are serious concerns about Aegon's sales tactics, which some say look like a multi-level marketing scheme.
  2. Recent investigations show JOYY's app Bigo Live is facing major issues after being removed by Google and Apple due to child abuse allegations.
  3. Multiple companies have seen rapid executive turnover, with several CEOs and CFOs resigning or being replaced in just a short time.

All Fear The Cloud and Twitter Financials

Alex's Personal Blog • 131 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
💼 Business Finance Tech Marketing Startups Economics Investments
  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.

I thought we liked free markets

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
💼 Business Finance Crypto Tech Economics Market Trends
  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.

Problems at Hindenburg Research

The Bear Cave • 1982 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
💼 Business Finance Investing Research Media Reporting
  1. Hindenburg Research has been accused of copying or closely mirroring reports made by The Bear Cave without giving credit. This includes similar wording and findings in their investigations.
  2. The Bear Cave has done extensive work on issues such as safety and child abuse on platforms like Roblox, which Hindenburg has also reported on without mentioning The Bear Cave's previous contributions.
  3. There are growing concerns about the ethics of Hindenburg's reporting practices, as many see it as taking credit for others' research without acknowledgment.

Valuable, but not productive

Passing Time • 970 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
💼 Business Consulting Finance Career Entrepreneurship Work Life
  1. Many elite graduates end up in consulting and finance jobs, even if they don't know much about these fields. They often choose these paths due to pressure and anxiety about what to do after college.
  2. While jobs in consulting and finance are lucrative, they often don't contribute much to society. The work can feel unproductive and doesn't create a lasting impact or legacy.
  3. These high-stress jobs can lead to burnout and affect personal lives. People may sacrifice their health and relationships for prestige and money, but there are other fulfilling paths to explore.

Top Links 607 Uncertainty in energy markets. Nike dashing for cash & the strange absence of the state.

Chartbook • 343 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
💼 Business Finance Markets Economics Corporate Industry
  1. Energy markets are facing a lot of uncertainty right now, making it hard to predict what will happen next. This can affect prices and availability for consumers.
  2. Nike is trying to gather cash quickly, signaling possible financial issues or a need for investment. This could impact their future decisions and strategies.
  3. The government seems to be less involved in addressing current economic challenges, leaving some questions about their role and support during these times.

Startups, This Is How You Update Investors

Points And Figures • 373 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
💼 Business Startups Investing Finance Management Entrepreneurship
  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.

Middleware Platform Solid To Wind Down, Lewis & Clark To Exit BaaS

Fintech Business Weekly • 66 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
💼 Business Finance Investment Banking Regulation Legal issues
  1. Evolve Bank & Trust has faced serious legal issues, including accusations of illegal discrimination and failing to meet fiduciary responsibilities. This has raised concerns about their trustworthiness.
  2. The middleware platform Solid is shutting down, and its bank partner, Lewis & Clark, is also exiting its banking-as-a-service business. This indicates a tough environment for fintech companies.
  3. Wise has reached a settlement with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for advertising inaccuracies and failing to disclose fees properly. This highlights ongoing scrutiny in the fintech sector regarding consumer protection.

Steve Cohen Wants To Spend $8 Billion To Transform Citi Field Into An Entertainment District

Huddle Up • 34 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💼 Business Sports Management Real Estate Entertainment Finance Investment
  1. Steve Cohen, the owner of the Mets, plans to spend $8 billion to turn the area around Citi Field into a fun entertainment district.
  2. His vision includes parks, hotels, restaurants, and even a casino, all without using any taxpayer money.
  3. Cohen wants to create a better experience for fans, showcasing his commitment by hosting special fan events and spending heavily on player contracts.

Operation Leviosa

Ronin’s Newsletter • 307 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🔮 Crypto NFT Gaming Blockchain Web3 Finance
  1. The Ronin platform is opening up to more games and applications. This means more opportunities for developers and a wider variety of experiences for players.
  2. The focus on exclusivity is changing, allowing games from other chains to join Ronin. This helps build unity in the web3 gaming community.
  3. The founders reflect on how far they've come in 7 years and see this next step as a significant leap forward. They expect challenges ahead but believe success will benefit the whole community.

The Great Reset: From Startups to What's Next

European Straits • 60 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
💼 Business Startups Finance Economics Innovation Global Markets Entrepreneurship
  1. Europe has struggled to create big tech companies like those in the US and China. It's due to issues like culture differences and less investment, which make it harder for companies to grow big.
  2. The US has certain advantages, such as a large market and easier access to funding, that help companies succeed. In Europe, money tends to be concentrated with a few wealthy families, making startups struggle.
  3. Even if startups seem to be fading, there's still a chance for new tech and ideas to emerge, especially with things like AI. Companies are likely to focus on efficiency rather than just rapid growth.

Reading List 11/16/24

Construction Physics • 1043 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
💼 Business Construction Infrastructure Technology Real Estate Finance
  1. Miami tried to become a new tech hub, but it didn't get much venture capital funding, showing it hasn't really worked out.
  2. Modular construction is growing, especially for fast food restaurants, where buildings can be completed in just 24 hours.
  3. The average homebuyer in the U.S. is now 56 years old, which reflects the aging population in the country.

Why small developers are getting squeezed out of the housing market

Noahpinion • 11588 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
💼 Business Real Estate Finance Development Affordable Housing Banking
  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.

How soon until we can afford robot butlers?

Alex's Personal Blog • 65 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Finance Business News
  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.

How to Build a Data Room That Stands Out 📁

The VC Corner • 719 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
💼 Business Startups Fundraising Investing Entrepreneurship Finance
  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.

How we built a business out of recession - chapter 35 - the wild goose chase continues

The ZIPster • 26 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Startups Expansion Finance Management
  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.

Moving Mental Mountains

Software Design: Tidy First? • 1369 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
💼 Business Finance Technology Economics Management Workforce
  1. Now it's easier and cheaper to explore data and insights, so we should be more curious and take the time to investigate our 'I wonder' moments.
  2. Emotional reactions often replace actual work, and we need to focus on doing the analytical tasks instead of just responding emotionally.
  3. When analyzing data, start small and make sure your findings are accurate. Sharing what you learn can help you grow and encourage collective knowledge.

What’s Next For DeFi

DeFi Education • 719 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
🔮 Crypto Decentralization Blockchain Finance Regulation Investing
  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.

Why Insurance Companies Are Rationally Failing Their Social Purpose

Software Design: Tidy First? • 1391 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
💼 Business Insurance Finance Economics Investing Risk management
  1. Insurance is meant to convert risks into opportunities, allowing people to buy homes and start businesses by protecting lenders against losses. But it's complicated when companies only want to insure low-risk customers.
  2. Insurance companies often cut back on the risks they cover to stay competitive and offer lower prices, which means they might not support those in need, like entrepreneurs with health issues.
  3. For insurance to work as it should, companies need to stop focusing solely on low-risk clients. They should start covering real people, including those who are a bit riskier, to provide the societal benefits that insurance was originally designed for.

Panic Among the Streamers

The Honest Broker • 22673 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
💼 Business Technology Entertainment Finance Economy Industry
  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.

The Bear Cave #251

The Bear Cave • 513 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
💼 Business Finance Markets Investing Corporate Governance Research
  1. There are significant legal troubles for companies like LendingTree, which could face lawsuits costing hundreds of millions of dollars. This could affect their financial stability and future operations.
  2. Recent executive resignations in several companies, including Intel, suggest instability at the management level. Frequent leadership changes can indicate underlying issues within a company.
  3. Research reports from different groups are highlighting possible problems in companies like Serve Robotics and Plug Power. These findings could impact investor confidence and stock prices.

The Bear Cave #250

The Bear Cave • 606 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
💼 Business Finance Investing Corporate Governance Market Analysis Activism
  1. The Bear Cave focuses on finding problems in companies that are often ignored by the mainstream. This helps identify potential short selling opportunities.
  2. The publication has tracked executive resignations and has shown that many companies with leadership changes tend to underperform in the market.
  3. Over the past few years, the companies highlighted by The Bear Cave have consistently lagged behind the S&P 500, hinting at serious issues that investors should consider.

Sounding the Alarm Over the WHO’s Attack on American Taxpayers and Sovereignty....

Peter Navarro's Taking Back Trump's America • 9159 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Politics World Politics Finance News Podcasts
  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.