Swiping Left on TikTok: The END of the Scroll?

Author

Adam Valenta
March 14, 2024

Welcome to the second edition of The Pulse. We have been spending most of our time this week at SXSW. We must say… this is the best SX we’ve had…

Some important stories have been brewing in the past week that you don’t want to miss – Especially if you’ve been partying networking at SXSW.

TL;DR

  • U.S. House passes a bill that could lead to a TikTok ban, awaits Senate's move.

  • Stripe is taking its time to go public, buoyed by a recent uptick in cash flow.

  • Airbnb outlaws indoor security cameras, requires transparency for outdoor cameras, and introduces noise monitors.

  • Nvidia invites developers to sneak a peek at an upcoming AI chip release next week.

  • Augment SXSW shenanigans

TikTok’s Fate is about to be Sealed

The U.S. House fast-tracked a bill to potentially ban TikTok unless it's sold by ByteDance, spurred by bipartisan security concerns and TikTok's perceived political influence. Despite TikTok's lobbying and denials of data misuse, the House, citing classified briefings, acted swiftly. Critics question the bill's free speech implications, while supporters see it as a necessary step. The Senate now deliberates amidst constitutional and privacy debates.

Stripe = Cashflow positive — slowing IPO discussion and $1T processed in 2023

Stripe is not rushing to go public, diverging from previous expectations. The company, which saw businesses using its platform process over $1 trillion in payments in 2023, was cash flow positive and plans to invest long-term. Co-founder John Collison emphasized their financial independence from the capital markets.

Nvidia Teases a Sneak Peek of AI Chip Magic Next Week

At Nvidia's GTC event, CEO Jensen Huang will unveil new AI chips, cementing the company's lead in AI technology. Nvidia, with a market cap nearing Apple's, expects soaring revenues as demand for AI processors spikes. Despite supply constraints and premium pricing, Nvidia's stock has surged due to its dominant role. Critical issues include sustaining growth, software ecosystem expansion, and staying ahead of Chinese competition, with new chip B100 likely widening the technology gap.

Airbnb says no mas to indoor cameras

Airbnb is banning indoor security cameras in rentals to protect guest privacy, effective April 30th. The platform previously allowed cameras in common areas but will now also enforce disclosure of outdoor cameras and noise monitors in listings. The policy update follows incidents of guests finding hidden cameras and aims to prevent surveillance of private moments. Hosts have until end of April to comply, with potential penalties including removal from Airbnb for violations.

More News and Links

Augment SXSW Extravaganza(s)

We have been busy during SXSW partnering with our friends at Velvet, OpenVC & Firefly Aerospace to put on two amazing events for investors. A massive thank you to everyone who attended our events this past week — the drinks were flowing and relationships were sparking.

Family Office & GP Cocktail Hour hosted by Augment, Velvet, & OpenVC

Rocket Factory Tour at Firefly hosted by Velvet & Augment — Amazing team, magnetic energy, & Execution gods.

Where should we host our next in-person Investor event?

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Until next week.

Cheers,

Adam Valenta

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