Category: Business

BusinessStartupsTechnology

Lakestar Halts New Venture Fundraising, Shifts Focus to Existing Portfolio

Klaus Hommels, founder of Lakestar, announced the firm will not raise new generalist venture funds, instead concentrating on maximizing existing portfolio companies. The shift comes as European venture fundraising faces a significant decline, with funds raising only $8 billion this year compared to $27 billion in 2024.

Strategic Shift for European Venture Giant

Lakestar, one of Europe’s most prominent venture capital firms, has informed investors it will halt raising new generalist venture funds, according to reports. Founder Klaus Hommels stated in a letter to investors that future startup investments will primarily utilize his personal capital rather than institutional funds. The Zurich-based firm, which manages over $2 billion in assets, plans to focus on maximizing value from its existing portfolio companies.

by Priya Kapoor
BusinessStartupsTechnology

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 Approaches With Final Discount Window Closing Soon

The premier startup conference TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is set to launch in San Francisco with only days remaining for discounted registration. The event promises networking with thousands of tech professionals and showcases emerging technologies across multiple industries.

Final Registration Window for Major Tech Conference

With only four days remaining before launch, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is preparing to take over San Francisco’s Moscone West convention center, according to event organizers. Sources indicate this marks the final opportunity for attendees to secure passes before anticipated price increases take effect.

by Priya Kapoor
BusinessInnovationManufacturing

Private Sector Investment Key to Revitalizing South Africa’s Transport Infrastructure, Experts Say

South Africa’s transport and logistics sector requires significant private investment to overcome inefficiencies hurting export competitiveness, according to industry experts. Panelists at a recent transport webinar emphasized that specialized skills, technology, and capital from private companies could revitalize underperforming infrastructure. Regulatory modernization and public-private partnerships were cited as crucial for sustainable improvement.

Private Sector Participation Crucial for Transport Efficiency

South Africa’s transport and logistics system requires substantial private sector involvement to overcome longstanding inefficiencies and boost export competitiveness, according to reports from industry leaders participating in Creamer Media’s recent Transport webinar. Analysts suggest that the sector’s current challenges are significantly impacting the country’s economic performance and global trade position.

by Priya Kapoor
BusinessManufacturingTechnology

Rivian Announces Workforce Reduction Affecting Over 600 Employees Amid EV Market Pressures

Rivian Automotive is reportedly preparing to lay off more than 600 workers as the electric vehicle manufacturer confronts increasing market headwinds. The cuts would affect approximately 4% of the company’s workforce, with details expected to be shared with employees this week. The move comes as EV makers face a shifting regulatory landscape and changing market conditions.

Major Workforce Reduction at Electric Vehicle Maker

Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian Automotive is planning significant workforce reductions affecting more than 600 employees, according to reports from multiple financial news sources. The layoffs represent approximately 4% of the company’s total workforce, which stood at just under 15,000 employees at the end of last year.

by Priya Kapoor
BusinessInnovationStartups

Corporate Venture Arms Emerge as Key Partners for Pioneering Climate Technology Projects

As climate tech funding declines sharply in Europe, corporate venture capital firms are positioning themselves as essential partners for first-of-a-kind projects. Sources indicate CVCs provide technical expertise and offtake agreements that traditional investors cannot match, though some concerns about competitive tensions remain.

Corporate Venture Capital Fills Critical Gap in Climate Tech Funding

Corporate venture capital firms are increasingly positioning themselves as essential partners for first-of-a-kind climate technology projects facing massive capital requirements and technical hurdles, according to industry analysis. As traditional climate tech funding reportedly dropped 71% in Europe during the first half of 2025, CVCs claim they can provide the specialized expertise and customer connections that FOAK startups desperately need.

by Samuel Kim
BusinessStartupsTechnology

Helsinki’s Donut Lab Strengthens E-Mobility Ecosystem Through Strategic Stake in Nordic Nano

Helsinki-based e-mobility specialist Donut Lab has deepened its technology portfolio with a strategic investment in Nordic Nano Group. The move unites nanotechnology solutions for renewable energy with electric transportation innovation. This partnership aims to accelerate development of sustainable battery technology and energy systems.

Strategic Expansion in E-Mobility Technology

Donut Lab, a Helsinki-based electric mobility technology specialist, has reportedly expanded its innovative offering through a strategic investment in Nordic Nano Group, according to industry reports. Sources indicate this move significantly strengthens the international tech cluster for electric transportation that Donut Lab is developing.

by Priya Kapoor