This Early Spotify Investor Isn't Concerned Shares Have Pulled Back
One early Spotify investor is happy that the company’s stock didn’t surge when it started trading on the market Tuesday.
“If we had totally exploded, I don’t think that would have been good,” said Pär-Jörgen Pärson, partner at European venture capital firm Northzone, a Spotify investor since 2008.
“It would be hard to grow into that valuation over time. I think it’s better to have a gradual convergence of what the market expects and what you deliver as a company.”
Investors and experts forecasted major market volatility as a result of Spotify’s unusual direct listing. But the music streaming company’s public debut went off smoother than expected, and despite pulling back from from the opening trades, shares remain well above the reference price of $132 a share.
Reports emerged Thursday that only about five percent of the total number of Spotify shares that were eligible for the listing were actually sold and traded.
That may be because investors aren’t ready to part ways with their shares as they’ve “grown to really like and appreciate the destructive nature of the company,” said Pärson.
Spotify shares ended Thursday at almost $144.
Dena Jalbert, Head of M&A at Align Advisory, discusses the state of mergers and acquisitions in 2025 and beyond, highlighting key trends and opportunities.
Kim Perell, author and entrepreneur, shares actionable tips and tricks to help current and aspiring entrepreneurs kick off 2026 with confidence and momentum.
Emera CEO Scott Balfour discusses soaring energy demand, AI-driven grid challenges, clean-power investments, and how the company is building a resilient future.
JB Mackenzie discusses Robinhood’s new entertainment prediction markets, letting users engage with pop culture, award shows, and more through low-stakes bets.
Rhett Power shares his startup journey, lessons from his early years and insights from his book on overcoming negative self-talk to lead with confidence.
Despite inflation, Americans aren’t giving up the gym. Crunch Fitness CEO Jim Rowley discusses strong growth, value-driven expansion and what the future holds.
Home prices far outpacing incomes, low inventory, and higher living costs are reshaping the market. WSJ’s Veronica Dagher breaks down the challenges ahead.
As commercial options tighten, more travelers are turning to private aviation. Wheels Up CEO George Mattson breaks down capacity and demand challenges.
Layoffs, hiring slowdowns, and shifting skill demands dominate this year’s job talk. LinkedIn’s Kory Kantenga explains what workers should watch for next.
