facebook for compliments

I’ll tell you a story

Hi there,

When Spotify acquired Gimlet Media, we analyzed:

• how the deal and valuation multiple compared to other podcast acquisitions
• Spotify’s strategy with Gimlet based on prior M&A, investments, and earnings calls

That client-only research note is here.

Using the new Stories capability on CB Insights, we also created this Story about the podcast space, which you can find here.

Exit left

26 companies valued at $1B+ went public or were acquired in 2018. The companies represent a wide range of industries, including e-commerce, payments, and software.

From Meituan Dianping to Spotify to GitHub, we take a closer look at last year’s 26 unicorn exits.

The company you keep

Turns out there’s some science behind the “good vibes only” mentality.

A 2017 study from Northwestern University found that sitting within 25 feet of a high performer at work improved an employee’s performance by 15%. Sitting within 25 feet of a low performer hurt their performance by 30%.

Outside digs into the research. You can find the article in The Blurb below.

You can take that to the bank

Despite skepticism from banks, the question of whether blockchain and decentralized ledger technology will replace or revamp elements of the banking system remains.

From payments to secuirities to loans and credit, we take a look at how blockchain could transform the $134T global banking industry.

 The inner machinations of my mind are an enigma

Though research has advanced over the years, the brain is still mysterious. Alzheimer’s disease, for example, affects around 5.7M Americans, but its causes are still unknown.

But researchers are determined to solve the brain’s mysteries, and several new technologies have emerged to help.

We examine the current state of brain research, the startups and innovations shaping the area, and more. Clients can read it here.

Speaking of good vibes…

Internet users in China are joining social media groups where they can pay to receive compliments.

The “praising groups” — or “kuakuaqun” in Mandarin — can be found on Tabao, an e-commerce site run by Alibaba. Pricing options start around 35 yuan, or $5.21.

BTW, if you refer someone for one of our open positions, you could get $5K and our editorial team will send you an email saying you’re strong, powerful, and wise.

Keep your eyes peeled

Artificial intelligence is spreading across every industry. From facial recognition to next-gen prosthetics to auto claims processing, our analysts identified the top 25 AI trends to watch this year. Check them out here.

 I know that face

Banks, merchants, and payments cos are fighting “card-not-present” fraud with biometric authentication, or verifying payer identity with fingerprints, voices, and faces.

We dig into how biometric authentication works, which countries are already using it, and where it stands in the US. Expert Intelligence clients can read about it here.

Who run the world?

Funding in the women’s health space is on the rise, with fertility and period care startups gaining attention from investors and consumers.

We take a closer look at what’s driving the trend here.

The Industry Standard

CB Insights data is the most trusted by those in the industry and the media. A few recent hits.

Forbes. Anuja Khemka (@anujakhemka) provides tips for aspiring entrepreneurs and references CB Insights research.

Glossy. Emma Sandler (@emmasandler) writes about Brandless’ goal to change the perception of wellness as being elitist and quotes CB Insights senior CPG analyst Anagha Hanumante (@anaghahanumante).

TechRepublic. Alison DeNisco Rayome (@alisondenisco) lists 10 industries that could be impacted by 5G technology and references CB Insights research.

I love you.

Anand
@asanwal 

P.S. On March 26, we’ll be discussing payments trends to watch in 2019. Register for the briefing here.

P.P.S. Do you love our fintech research? Want to join the CB Insights team? We’re hiring a senior fintech analyst.