Tag: Spotify

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

Refurbed Secures £44 Million Investment Following Workforce Restructuring

Austrian startup Refurbed has reportedly secured £44 million in new funding just eight months after reducing its workforce by 20%. The company, which operates a marketplace for refurbished electronics, plans to use the capital to expand into the UK market following recent profitability achievements.

Funding Round Details

Austrian startup Refurbed has reportedly raised £44 million in a recent funding round, according to sources familiar with the matter. The investment comes approximately eight months after the company implemented significant workforce reductions, cutting 20% of its staff earlier this year.

by Priya Kapoor
MediaTechnology

Spotify Launches First FAST Channel on Samsung TV Plus with The Ringer Content

Spotify has debuted its first FAST channel exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, featuring The Ringer’s video podcasts. The free channel offers 24/7 curated content including sports analysis, movie reviews, and cultural commentary. This marks Spotify’s entry into free ad-supported streaming television.

Spotify Enters FAST Market with Samsung Partnership

Spotify has launched its first FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) channel exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, according to reports from both companies. The new channel, called The Ringer, represents Spotify’s strategic move into the rapidly growing free streaming television market and leverages content from The Ringer podcast network founded by Bill Simmons.

by Priya Kapoor