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In Case You Missed It: Launch Links - Week of March 27, 2016

  • 4.1.2016

Some interesting links we found across the web this week:

How The Fiduciary Rule Will Harm Fintech And Startups
The Department of Labor may not be the first federal agency on an early-stage founder’s mind, but keep an eye on their upcoming decision around the “fiduciary rule,” expected to be released next week. It’s expected to significantly limit the degree of risk permitted in investing through 401(k) and IRA accounts, which have been source of funds for and VCs. Click through for more and stick with this under-the-radar development.

Why Mutual Funds Can’t Agree on What Unicorns Are Worth
We’ve previously noted the subtle but increasing involvement of mutual funds in the market and their obligation to regularly re-value their portfolio companies. This week, a new Fidelity valuation report marked down Dropbox, Cloudera and Zenefits (registration/subscription), among others, but at least one trustworthy commentator is highly skeptical of their methodology.

This AI Engine Takes Common Biases Out Of The Venture Capital Process
Ever tried pitching to a computer? That’s right—we’re getting closer to Watsonesque decisions on venture capital investment. Check out and keep tabs on this fascinating project by the UK-based accelerator Founders Factory.

Inside Silicon Valley's Big Pitch Day
Y Combinator recently hosted a particularly epic demo day, and if you weren’t there, this piece from The Atlantic will certainly make you feel like you were. A perfect weekend read.

Building Long Term Companies
We’re longtime fans of Brad Feld’s writing and this post on the sustainability of an idea is no exception. Dig in and dream big!

Links compiled by Jared Brenner.