More Fun with Wireless Standards – The 3GPP has released a new timeline for updates to the 5G standard. And while it is delayed by 7-8 months, there are many signs that we are returning, or at least headed towards, some form of normalcy.
What is happening to the supply chain? There are some significant bottlenecks in the electronics supply chain right now, with even some of the most overlooked components in shortage. Blame 2020, but also, call ALL your suppliers, just to double check.
The Haves and the Have Nots – No one can predict how the economy will fare, for now the tech industry is propped up by a healthy dose of investor cash. Eventually this spigot will be shut off, and it is important to be prepared for a long winter.
Financial models – This is the Way. Build simple, cash models. Models do not give answers, they show constraints and trade-offs, and are a tool for making informed decisions. We have a few suggestions on the right way to build them.
Not a Drop for You – To use a highly technical terms, capital markets are weird right now. We are seeing a growing divide between the haves and have-nots, with many start-ups rolling in investor interest and many more seeing their options decline.
Uncertainty – Are we going back to work? – After a week of speaking to a lot of large enterprises, we think a lot of big companies will not return to normal activity this year.
Is America losing the R&D race? – The short answer is no, but we may want to rethink how we prioritize our R&D investments.
Fear is the Mind Killer – Two weeks ago we argued that consumer sentiment and individual decision making are going to have a big impact on the economy. There is now an academic paper to back that up. Also, wear a mask.
Raising Venture Funds under Uncertainty – Fear of the virus and its impact on the economy are still pervasive, and while conditions will tighten for many, investors are nonetheless aware that there will be many compelling opportunities in coming months.
Good CFOs need to understand their companies. Their role shouldn’t be the Veto-holder or decision maker. Instead, they should help companies frame and measure decisions.
