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Navigating the Future of Web3: Insights from Berthold Baurek-Karlic, CEO of Venionaire
/in Market Pulse, News /by VenionaireDuring the annual World Venture Forum in Kitzbühel, BTC Echo‘s Editor-in-Chief Sven Wagenknecht interviewed Berthold Baurek-Karlic, CEO of Venionaire about the World Venture Forum becoming a crypto hotspot on the first day, about timing when it comes to crypto and about today’s environment for M&A deals.
The Transformative Power of Blockchain
In Web3, timing investments is less important than the transformative power of blockchain technology itself. We’ve seen the World Venture Forum become a bustling hub for crypto innovation , now celebrating its tenth year. What started as a small golf tournament has grown into an annual event attracting global investors and thinkers eager to explore the future of digital economies.
The Serendipitous Beginnings of the World Venture Forum
Our journey with the World Venture Forum began unexpectedly· A casual chat with Kitzbühel’s mayor about bringing investors together sparked the idea to create a platform for pioneers in digital assets. Over the years, driven by growing interest in cryptocurrencies, especially during the rise of Web3 technologies, the World Venture Forum expanded into a week-long event. It became clear early on that Kitzbühel’s beautiful setting was perfect for discussions on decentralized computing, innovative blockchain applications, and the broader impacts of the Internet of Blockchains.
Venionaire Capital’s Strategic Investment Approach
Venionaire Capital’s investment strategy focuses on finding projects with strong business models in the Web3 sector. We manage a specialized Web3 fund, the first registered Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM) in Austria authorized for crypto investments. Unlike traditional approaches based solely on market capitalizations, our strategy emphasizes deep community engagement and thorough due diligence. We seek out companies that not only use blockchain technology but also drive sustainable progress in digital networks.
Anticipating the Future of the Cryptocurrency Market
Looking ahead, we expect further development in the cryptocurrency market marked by clear market cycles. After a period of market ups and downs, known as the “Crypto Spring,” we foresee a phase of consolidation and maturity. Regulatory changes, along with the introduction of crypto ETFs, are set to improve market transparency and institutional acceptance. This transformative phase offers opportunities for forward-thinking firms like 21shares, which develop ETFs and contribute creatively to the Web3 ecosystem.
The Fluid Nature of Web3 Investments
When evaluating market trends, it is crucial to highlight the fluid nature of Web3 investments. Unlike traditional sectors where timing is critical, the Web3 universe thrives on ongoing innovation and adaptability. The early days of the internet provide a good comparison; while market sentiments may fluctuate, our dedication to understanding and shaping the future of blockchain technology remains steadfast. It’s not just about investments; it’s about nurturing an environment where digital natives and experienced investors can fully leverage the potential of the Internet of Blockchains together·
Beyond investments, Venionaire actively participates in M&A advisory to foster strategic growth opportunities for our portfolio companies. In a landscape characterized by dynamic changes and strategic consolidations, we navigate opportunities for organic growth and transformative acquisitions.
The original interview has been published in German and can be read here: https://www.btc-echo.de/news/venionaire-capital-ceo-im-web3-ist-es-egal-wann-man-investiert-187877/
World Venture Forum: Internationale Top-Investoren treffen sich in Kitzbühel
/in Uncategorized / not displayed in blog /by VenionaireCircular Economy Day 2024 in Klagenfurt: Startschuss für 20 Millionen InvestCEC-Fonds
/in Uncategorized / not displayed in blog /by VenionaireErwartungen übertroffen: European Venture Sentiment Index auf höchstem Stand seit Ausbruch des Russland-Ukraine-Konflikts
/in Uncategorized / not displayed in blog /by VenionaireWieder mehr Risikokapital für Start-ups: „European Venture Sentiment Index“ stellt Investment-Trendwende in Aussicht
/in Uncategorized / not displayed in blog /by VenionaireÖsterreichs einziger Kryptofonds Tigris Web3 mit 85 Prozent im Plus, Ausblick positiv
/in Uncategorized / not displayed in blog /by VenionaireThe Startup Rollercoaster: How a new Netflix Series can lead to Explosive Growth!
/in Market Pulse, News /by VenionaireIn the world of startups and scaleups, every founder dreams of that one breakthrough moment, the unexpected event that sends their sales soaring. Startups usually run growth experiments for performance marketing and position themselves for the breakthrough moment. This can also come by surprise if the market winds start to blow towards the problem they are tackling. Is it luck or is it the fruit of hard work? Either one. It can happen to any startup, at any time and when lightning strikes, you’ve got to be ready to harness that energy and ride the wave. And sometimes a Netflix series called “Hack Your Health: The Secrets of Your Gut” is responsible for explosive growth.
Founder Advice 101: Ready, Set, Scale!
So, you’ve got a killer idea, a passionate team, and a burning desire to change the world. But here’s the harsh reality: success isn’t just about having a great product. It’s about being ready to scale when the opportunity arises – and that can happen out of the blue. That means you have to build a strong foundation, stay agile, and always be prepared to pivot when the winds of change start blowing. This is crucial for those who want to use their once in a lifetime chance.
A recent example of such a striking incident, increasing sales momentum 20 to 30 fold, happened to our portfolio company Biome Diagnostics, just this week. Let’s take a closer look into it and share some learnings with all founders and investors out there.
Unleashing the Microbiome Miracle: BiomeDX’s Netflix Moment
Picture this: a normal day at the BiomeDX headquarters, when suddenly, the internet explodes with chatter about gut health, all thanks to a Netflix series called “Hack Your Health: The Secrets of Your Gut“. Although the topic of gut health has been scientifically en vogue for years, publications on the subject, books have been written, etc., the topic has only now really reached the general public through Netflix. Infotainment has hit, now everyone wants to optimise their gut health and is looking for the right products and partners online. In a matter of days, the world is buzzing about the microbiome, and BiomeDX finds itself at the epicenter of the craze.
With their flagship product, “myBioma,” poised to revolutionize the way we understand gut health, BiomeDX sees sales skyrocket overnight. Now, imagine this: in the blink of an eye, BiomeDX finds themselves not just doubling or tripling their sales, but multiplying them by a staggering factor of thirty! Yes, you read that right—thirtyfold growth in the blink of an eye! It’s the kind of meteoric rise that most startups dream of, and yet, for BiomeDX, it’s become a reality. But here’s the twist: they were ready. Ready to scale, ready to innovate, and ready to seize the moment when opportunity came knocking. It’s a testament to their foresight, their resilience, and their unwavering commitment to seizing every opportunity that comes their way.
The Takeaway: Be Prepared, Be Proactive, Be BiomeDX
So, what’s the lesson here for all you aspiring founders out there? It’s simple: always be ready for the unexpected. Success isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about being prepared to capitalize on opportunities when they arise. Whether it’s a viral Netflix series like Hack your Health or a chance encounter with a potential investor, you’ve got to be ready to pounce and ride that wave of momentum all the way to the top.
So, are you ready to unleash your startup’s potential? The time to act is now. Just remember: when opportunity knocks, don’t just open the door—kick it down and make it yours. And who knows? With a little luck and a lot of hustle, you just might be the next BiomeDX, riding the wave of success all the way to the top!
And if you’re itching to dive deeper into the fascinating world of your gut microbiome, then look no further! Head over to https://mybioma.com/ to get your hands on a test kit and unlock the secrets of your microbiome today. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take control of your health and embark on a journey of discovery with BiomeDX. Your gut will thank you!
Pioneering Women in Computing: Shaping the Future of AI
/in Market Pulse, News /by VenionaireArtificial Intelligence is without any doubt a daily companion for many of us —sometimes consciously, sometimes without us even realizing it. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s essential to recognize the remarkable contributions of women who laid the foundation for the technological landscape we inhabit today. The extraordinary women we have chosen for this blog have / have had a significant impact on the evolution of computing technologies. Their groundbreaking work contributed significantly and furthermore set the stage for the development of artificial intelligence. Our blog does not claim to provide a comprehensive list of female scientists in AI for sure. These women are shining examples of women in science who without any doubt have achieved groundbreaking results.
Ada Lovelace (1815-1852): The Visionary Programmer
Ada Lovelace is often hailed as the world’s first computer programmer. She left an indelible mark on the history of computing in a time where gender equality was not even a vision. In the mid-19th century, she foresaw the potential of Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine to process not only numbers but also symbols. Lovelace’s detailed notes laid the groundwork for the concept of computer programming, a visionary perspective that resonates in the algorithms and codes powering AI systems today.
Grace Hopper (1906-1992): A Naval Pioneer in Programming
Grace Hopper, a pioneering computer scientist and U.S. Navy rear admiral, played a crucial role in the development of early programming languages. Her dedication led to the creation of COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language), which remains influential in business and administrative systems, contributing to the foundations of modern computing. Hopper’s legacy undeniably endures in the languages that underpin the AI technologies shaping our future.
Dorothy Vaughan (1910-2008): Paving the Way for Modern Computing
Dorothy Vaughan, an African-American mathematician at NASA, made significant contributions to the early days of computing. Her expertise in programming the IBM 7090, an early mainframe computer, laid the groundwork for modern computer programming techniques. Vaughan’s impact obviously transcends time, influencing the programming practices essential for the AI technologies we rely on today.
These pioneering women are akin to the great-great-great-grandmothers of AI, laying the groundwork for tools like ChatGPT and the myriad others that have emerged in recent years. As we acknowledge their incredible achievements, it’s especially important to reflect on the challenges they faced in times when gender equality was less than a distant concept. These trailblazers achieved their groundbreaking feats in an era when women’s rights were limited, with issues like the right to vote and domestic violence against women still prevalent and without legal consequences. Despite these challenges, these remarkable women forged ahead. The left an enduring legacy that inspires and empowers women in STEM fields today.
Even today, gender bias persists in professional settings, and contemporary female scientists continue to combat stereotypes. We salute all the women who continue to advance science with their work, enabling groundbreaking changes even today. Thus we would like to spotlight three of them here.
Radia Perlman (b. 1951)
Radia Perlman, an American computer scientist, is renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the field of computer networks. She developed the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), a crucial mechanism for preventing loops in Ethernet networks. Her work was obviously fundamental to the stability of network topologies and played a significant role in laying the foundation for modern interconnected systems and the Internet. Often referred to as the “Mother of the Internet,” Perlman has had a substantial impact on shaping the structure and architecture of today’s digital age. Learn more about her work here.
Fei-Fei Li (b. 1976)
Fei-Fei Li is a Chinese-American computer scientist and AI researcher. Her research in computer vision, machine learning, and cognitive neuroscience has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of AI systems, particularly in image recognition. Li has worked on bridging the gap between computer vision and human vision, enabling machines to understand and interpret visual information more effectively. Her contributions have had indeed a profound impact on the development of AI applications in image and pattern recognition. Check out her profile!
Danica Kragic Jensfelt (b. 1971)
Danica Kragic, a Yugoslavia-born Swedish roboticist and computer scientist, has established herself as a leading figure in the realms of robotics and artificial intelligence. She studied mechanical engineering at the University of Rijeka and obtained a Master of Science degree in 1995. Furthermore she holds a PhD in Computer Science from KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. Her research has made significant contributions to various facets of robotics, including computer vision, machine learning, and human-robot interaction. Thus Kragic’s research finds practical applications in diverse fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, and autonomous systems. Learn more about Danica!
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us honor these ladies and all the others who contributed with their work and passion to today’s welfare. Let’s embrace their legacy, fostering an inclusive environment where the brilliance of women in science and technology continues to shine.
As a matter of fact, their stories remind us that progress is possible, even in the face of adversity. The pursuit of knowledge knows no gender boundaries. To rephrase it, the future of AI is brighter because of these extraordinary women. Their influence continues to resonate in the algorithms and innovations shaping our interconnected world.
Bitcoin: New All Time High in Euro
/in Crypto, Insights, News /by VenionaireOn March 5th, the cryptocurrency world witnessed a historic milestone as Bitcoin reached its all time high in Euro (€61,312.37 as of 3/5/24 9:30 AM). In November 2021, Bitcoin reached its peak value, soaring to an all-time high of €58,200. This significant achievement not only marked a new peak in Bitcoin’s price trajectory but also signaled a resurgence of enthusiasm within the crypto community. The recent surge in Bitcoin’s price can be attributed to a convergence of factors, each playing a pivotal role in fueling the renewed optimism surrounding the cryptocurrency. Amidst this exhilarating ascent of Bitcoin, the Tigris Web3 Fund, our Austrian crypto investment fund registered with the Austrian Financial Market Authority, has emerged as a standout performer, experiencing a remarkable surge of its own.
All Time High Surpassed, Marking Historic Milestone
Bitcoin reached its all time high in Euro. In February, the cryptocurrency briefly soared above $64,000, triggering a frenzy of activity on major exchanges like Coinbase. However, as demand surged, so did issues with data traffic and service interruptions, causing some users to see their portfolios momentarily displayed as “zero”. Despite these hiccups, Bitcoin quickly rebounded, currently (3/5/24 9:30 AM) sitting at an impressive $66,714.36 according to Coinmarketcap’s data. The recent surge in Bitcoin’s price relies on several factors, each contributing to the renewed optimism surrounding the cryptocurrency:
Bitcoin ETFs
One significant catalyst for Bitcoin’s all time high is the approval of new types of funds in the United States. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) green light for exchange-traded Bitcoin funds (ETFs) on January 10th opened the floodgates for listed funds directly investing in Bitcoin. Notably, heavyweights like Blackrock and Fidelity have had their applications approved. These spot ETFs undoubtedly enable investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin without the need to purchase the digital currency directly, expanding accessibility and driving demand. The prospect of the approval of Bitcoin ETFs alone caused the price of the cryptocurrency to rise sharply. At the beginning of January, the currency broke through the $45,000 mark, its highest level since April 2022.
Bitcoin Halving
A pivotal event fueling Bitcoin’s all time high is the impending halving. The Bitcoin Halving involves halving the reward for miners validating transactions and adding new blocks to the blockchain. This so-called block reward is 3.125 Bitcoin per mined block after the next halving. Specifically, this halving of the BTC reward is firmly anchored in the code after the creation of 210,000 new Bitcoin blocks. Despite the planned creation of a new block every ten minutes, the date of the next Bitcoin halving can only be estimated. It is expected to be on April 21st, 2024. The number of Bitcoin that will ever exist is fixed at 21 million. This means that the last Bitcoin will not be mined until around the year 2140 after the 33rd halving.
Historically, halving events have triggered substantial price increases due to the anticipated supply shock. With demand on the rise and the supply diminishing, investors anticipate a surge in Bitcoin’s price in the wake of the halving, further bolstering its value.
Falling Interest Rates
Analysts are closely watching the Federal Reserve’s stance on interest rates, with expectations of a halt or even a reversal of the rate hikes initiated to combat inflation. Moreover, as the economy stabilizes after a turbulent period, the Federal Reserve’s potential shift in policy could stimulate investment activity. Due to the series of rate increases, borrowing got more expensive, dampening investment appetite and favoring safer government assets. A shift towards lower interest rates could reinvigorate risk appetite, driving investors towards alternative assets like Bitcoin in search of higher returns.
Riding the Crypto Wave: Insights from the Tigris Web3 Fund
In the midst of Bitcoin’s meteoric rise, the Tigris Web3 Fund, our Austrian crypto investment fund registered with the Austrian Financial Market Authority, has been experiencing a remarkable surge of its own. Last week, we witnessed a series of all-time highs, reflecting the buoyant momentum within our portfolio. Anchored by strategic investments in leading projects such as Kujira (KUJI), Thorchain (RUNE), Akash (AKT), Injective (INJ), and Ethereum (ETH), our fund has been reaping the rewards of a dynamic crypto market landscape.
Fueled Institutional Interest and Technological Advancements
While Bitcoin’s recent surge has garnered significant attention, the drivers behind our fund’s success are multifaceted and extend beyond the flagship cryptocurrency. Notably, the approval of Bitcoin ETFs in the US has provided a substantial tailwind, amplifying investor interest in the broader crypto space. Furthermore, the possibility of Ethereum ETF approval looms on the horizon, promising additional avenues for diversification and growth.
Technical advancements in the realm of usability and scaling have also played a pivotal role in propelling our fund forward. With Web3 protocols evolving to offer seamless user experiences, free from the complexities of traditional wallet management, and incorporating social or user/password logins, accessibility to crypto assets has never been easier. Additionally, innovations in scaling solutions such as Layer 2s and the impending Ethereum upgrade have laid the groundwork for enhanced transaction throughput and reduced fees, further bolstering the appeal of our investment portfolio.
Resurgence of Retail Investors and Halving Anticipation
Moreover, the resurgence of retail investors, coupled with anticipation surrounding the upcoming Bitcoin halving, has injected renewed enthusiasm into the crypto market. As retail participation continues to gain momentum, we remain poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities and navigate market dynamics with agility.
At the core of our investment strategy lies a commitment to yield-generating trading strategies and diversified investments, underpinned by ongoing rebalancing and informed insights derived from our extensive network within the crypto ecosystem. Additionally, through close collaboration with industry stakeholders, including developers, foundations, validators, and beyond, we maintain a pulse on market trends and position ourselves strategically to optimize returns for our investors.
In conclusion, Bitcoin’s recent surge past the $60,000 mark and all time high in euro is underpinned by a combination of factors, including the approval of Bitcoin ETFs in the US, expectations of falling interest rates, and the upcoming halving event. As institutional interest in cryptocurrencies grows and regulatory barriers continue to evolve, Bitcoin’s trajectory remains one to watch closely, offering both opportunities and challenges for investors navigating the volatile yet promising landscape of digital assets. The Tigris Web3 Fund stands at the forefront of the crypto revolution, harnessing the collective potential of innovative technologies and strategic investments to deliver unparalleled value to our stakeholders.
Sources:
https://blockchainwelt.de/news/bitcoin-kurs-kurz-vor-60-000-ath-im-zuges-des-halvings-in-sicht/
https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/bitcoin/
https://www.bitcoin.de/en?cr=2
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