a16z has announced a significant $15 billion fundraising round, bringing its total assets under management to over $90 billion. The article delves into the firm’s history, investment strategies, and its approach to venture capital, emphasizing its unique positioning and the skepticism it has faced over the years.

The ICR Conference Spotlight Series will discuss the emerging trend of publicly listed companies acquiring large cryptocurrency positions as core assets on their balance sheets to provide investors with equity exposure. The event will feature insights from executives and firms involved in this strategy, focusing on key players like MicroStrategy and Upexi, while analyzing the benefits, risks, and historical context of this approach.

When pitching to venture capitalists, it's crucial to directly ask them about the likelihood of their investment. This approach not only opens a dialogue but also helps entrepreneurs gauge the interest and concerns of the investors. Establishing this transparency can lead to a more productive conversation about potential investment opportunities.

The article explores the intersection of angel investing and design, offering insights specifically tailored for designers looking to attract investment for their projects. It discusses key strategies, potential pitfalls, and the importance of aligning design principles with investment goals to create compelling pitches.

Understanding the differences between venture capital strategies is crucial for founders seeking investment. The article outlines various VC approaches, from hyper-selective funds aiming for high returns through concentrated investments to volume-based players focusing on deploying large amounts of capital. It emphasizes the importance of knowing the type of VC being engaged to ensure alignment with business goals and expectations.

IPOs are currently facing a downturn due to a combination of unfavorable market conditions, rising interest rates, and economic uncertainty. Many companies are delaying their public offerings, leading to a significant slowdown in the IPO market for the foreseeable future. Investors and companies alike are adopting a more cautious approach as they navigate these challenges.

The article discusses the importance of conviction in contrarian investing, emphasizing that successful investors often go against prevailing market trends. It highlights the need for thorough analysis and a strong belief in one's decisions when taking unconventional investment positions. Additionally, it explores the balance between being a contrarian and recognizing when to adapt strategies in response to changing market conditions.

Tim Chen has emerged as a highly sought-after solo investor, gaining recognition for his unique investment strategies and successful track record. His approach combines thorough research with a personal touch, making him a standout figure in the investment community. As interest in solo investors grows, Chen's influence and demand continue to rise.

Gil Dibner responds to Sam Lessin’s 2025 update on the venture capital landscape, highlighting the shift from a factory model to a regatta model where startups navigate funding with varying time and capital. He agrees with Lessin's observations on the fragmentation of the VC market and the emergence of new investment strategies, while also critiquing some of Lessin's more provocative statements about software and the SaaS model's viability. Ultimately, Dibner suggests that venture capital is returning to its uncertain roots, where the most promising investments are often those that break the mold.

Collaborative Fund's bold investment of $5 million into a single startup in 2015 exemplifies the high-risk, high-reward nature of venture capital. The article explores the complexities of portfolio construction, emphasizing the balance between concentration and diversification while highlighting the significance of conviction in investment decisions. Ultimately, it argues that effective venture capital requires both strategic thinking and an understanding of the unpredictable landscape of startup success.

Crypto liquid funds have experienced significant losses this year, prompting a shift towards high-quality tokens and fundamentals rather than momentum. Investors are narrowing their portfolios to focus on a select few assets with strong fundamentals, as market conditions push for more cautious strategies in the volatile crypto landscape.

The article discusses the differences between public and private companies in terms of their performance during market downturns and crashes, highlighting how public companies are typically more vulnerable to external shocks due to their visibility and accountability to shareholders. It also examines the implications for investors and the strategies that companies can adopt to mitigate risks during such times.