BusinessStartups

Prominent European VC Lakestar Shifts Strategy, Halts External Fundraising

Veteran investor Klaus Hommels’ Lakestar is reportedly shifting its strategy away from external fundraising. The firm plans to concentrate on maximizing returns from current investments while supporting internal entrepreneurial ventures.

Strategic Shift for European Venture Capital Leader

Lakestar, one of Europe’s most prominent venture capital firms known for early investments in Spotify and Revolut, is reportedly planning to stop raising external capital, according to sources familiar with the matter. The firm, founded by veteran investor Klaus Hommels, intends to focus on maximizing returns from its existing portfolio while maintaining flexibility to pursue selective new opportunities.

HealthcareStartups

Venture Capital Shifts Focus to MedTech’s Innovation Pipeline and Faster Returns

MedTech investments are gaining momentum as venture capitalists seek innovation with faster returns. Analysis suggests Canadian MedTech offers particularly attractive valuations compared to overheated markets elsewhere, with exit timelines potentially compressible to 3-5 years.

MedTech Emerges as Venture Capital’s New Frontier

The MedTech sector is reportedly entering a period of accelerated transformation driven by artificial intelligence, digital health, and robotics. According to industry analysis, AI in healthcare is expected to grow approximately 40 percent year-over-year throughout the next five years, creating unprecedented potential for innovation and acquisition activity.

AI ImpactEnergy Policy

Tech Leaders Debate AI Regulation Approaches as Startup Ecosystem Embraces Artificial Intelligence

LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman compares AI regulation to automotive seatbelts, advocating for iterative approaches. Meanwhile, Anthropic’s Jack Clark emphasizes the need for comprehensive policy solutions as AI dominates startup funding conversations. The contrasting viewpoints emerge amid an AI investment boom, with 85-90% of startups at recent pitch events incorporating artificial intelligence.

Diverging Perspectives on AI Governance

Technology leaders are expressing contrasting views on how artificial intelligence should be regulated, with LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman advocating for an iterative approach while Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark calls for more comprehensive policy solutions, according to reports from recent industry events.