Spotify's Unusual Public Listing Could Change the IPO Game
Spotify officially filed for a $1 billion public listing, planning an unusual direct listing instead of a traditional IPO. Dan Primack, Business Editor at Axios, joined Cheddar to explain how a successful listing could change how high-profile tech companies go public.
Primack explained his biggest takeaway is that there are no lock-ups on any investors or shareholders other than Tencent. This means almost all venture capitalists and employees can dump the stock as soon as Spotify goes public. Primack said this is important because it could cause crazy volatility like "we've never seen before."
One of Spotify's major challenges is that it bleeds money. The Swedish company lost nearly $1.5 billion last year. On the other hand, Spotify revealed robust growth with its 159 million users and 71 million premium subscribers. Despite extraordinary growth, Primack noted that it's hard to ignore the losses. Primack said this, along with competition from Amazon, Apple, and Pandora, will be a major challenge for the music streamer.
Watch Duty CEO, John Mills, talks to Cheddar about how the app works, how it helps people in real time and how people can donate to help those affected.
JP Richardson, CEO at Exodus, discusses bringing Exodus public, his thoughts on the future of crypto markets, and tips to take the first steps into the space.
Jonathan Alter, journalist and author, discusses Trump's threats to take back the Panama Canal, unraveling foreign policy work done by Jimmy Carter in 1978.
Curious as to what your latest streaming bundle will look like? Find out what the future of media looks like from Ken Leon, Research Director, at CFRA. Watch!
Nathan Bomey, Reporter at Axios, discusses where Tesla stands, Musk's relationship with the incoming president and expectations for Tesla throughout 2025.
Senior Writer at Fast Company, Elizabeth Segran, discusses how Sephora has become the dominant beauty retailer and why brands want to sell there. Watch!
Matt Calkins, CEO of Appian, breaks down the recent bipartisan report on AI safety and shares thoughts on future privacy enhancements needed in the space.