July 2024

This Side Hustle Spotlight Q&A features Victoria Carroll, a U.S.-based professional voice actor who created a full-time career with the freelance service platform Fiverr.

^{Image Credit: Courtesy of Fiverr. Victoria Carroll.}

What was your day job (or other sources of income) when you started your side hustle?
I was living abroad in the Czech Republic and working as an actress and filmmaker before I did voiceover work, but my income was always low (and sporadic), so I mainly supplemented it by teaching preschool. I did all sorts of things before becoming a full-time freelancer, though — I was a Disney princess, a promotional model for brands, I gave English lessons to Czech students…you name it!

Related: This Mom Started a Side Hustle on Facebook — Now It Averages $14,000 a Month and She Can ‘Work From a Resort in the Maldives’

When did you start your side hustle, and where did you find the inspiration for it?
I joined Fiverr, which is a platform for freelancers of all kinds, in 2018, which I fully credit for my current career. I had just finished my first large voice acting and motion capture project for a videogame (Kingdom Come: Deliverance) that was becoming quite popular and generating a ton of buzz, but I was still living paycheck to paycheck. A friend suggested I pursue voice-over more seriously and mentioned that they had just hired a voice actor through the site. I was really excited to give freelancing a shot. The prospect of being able to work from anywhere in the world and create my own schedule — especially in my field, which demanded a lot of flexibility for auditions and filming schedules — was really exciting.

What were some of the first steps you took to get your side hustle off the ground?
My first step was setting up a professional home recording studio. I bought a fancy microphone and soundproofing gear. From there, I did research on what clients were looking for in a recording artist and how to best set up my profile on Fiverr. This included creating videos and voice reels of my work, writing a good bio and figuring out how to best communicate project details to meet client’s needs.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while building your side hustle, and how did you navigate them?
I poured everything into building my career as a freelancer, meaning I often worked seven days a week. Sometimes my days were 14-plus hours long, too — and I spent the majority of those hours in a small, dark home recording studio. I also worked holidays, and although I saw success with all the time and effort I put in, I definitely got burnt out. After about a year or so of bending over backward to accommodate dozens of clients a day, I began to set clearer boundaries on when and where I was available and for what price. I have a rule about not working on Sundays now — and I try to avoid weekends in general if I can. I’ve also set stronger requirements for what types of projects I’m willing to take on and for what rates.

Related: This 26-Year-Old’s Side Hustle That ‘Anybody Can Do’ Grew to Earn $170,000 a Month. Here’s What Happened When I Tested It.

How long did it take you to see consistent monthly revenue? How much did the side hustle earn?
I hardly saw any revenue for the first six months. Then, I began to make around $1,000-2,000 a month on average, and it slowly increased from there. By my second full year on Fiverr, I made around $70,000 — the most I had made…ever!

What does growth and revenue look like now?
Since I started, I’ve been lucky enough to almost double my monthly earnings each year. Through Fiverr alone, I’m currently able to pull in around $250,000 a year.

You’ve turned your work on Fiverr into a full-time business. What do you enjoy most about this career?
I think time is our most precious and valuable resource, so having the freedom to make my own schedule is by far my favorite thing about this career. I never did well with jobs that required me to show up at the same place every day for several hours a day. Fiverr is incredible from a time-saving perspective because the catalog of your past work is displayed on the site, along with thousands of honest reviews from previous clients to establish trust, so you’re not wasting time auditioning for jobs or seeking out gigs — the work comes to you. It’s fun to wake up each day and see what new jobs I’ll be taking on; it keeps things fresh. It’s also nice not having a boss to answer to! I’m fully in charge of how my business operates.

Last year, I was able to fund and complete my first feature film (a documentary on a shaman that’s coming out this year), which included traveling to Peru to shoot, edit and post-produce the project. I also got married and pregnant — all while working “full-time”!

So, as a filmmaker and new mom, my freedom is absolutely priceless.

Related: This Former Flight Attendant and Her Roommate Started a Side Hustle With Just $2,000 Each. Then It Earned Them Nearly $600,000 — and Counting.

What’s your advice for others hoping to start successful side hustles of their own?
Be prepared to sacrifice a large amount of time and effort in the beginning to establish yourself. When I speak to other freelancers about how they got started, they usually say the same thing. I don’t think there’s a shortcut for that. In the beginning, I worked long hours for low pay. But I was able to pay my dues, build up a huge portfolio and forge nice, long-term relationships with brands and companies. If you make that investment by building up a portfolio and client base in the beginning, it will pay off when you’re established.

The cannabis industry has experienced exponential growth over recent years, with Verano emerging as a leading player. Verano operates in 13 states with over 140 locations and posted revenue of $938 million in 2023. George Archos, the founder and CEO of Verano, shares his journey and insights on building a successful cannabis company, emphasizing the importance of culture, adaptability, and community impact.

Archos was drawn to the cannabis industry by the potential benefits of the plant. He was influenced by a family member with multiple sclerosis, which motivated him to pursue a cultivation license in Illinois. Archos highlights the importance of building a company that does good for people, saying, “I always loved the opportunity to do something good for people, and this was an opportunity to do it in my home state.”

Related: Jon Bon Jovi and His Son Jesse Want You to Play ‘Pink Pong’ With Their Top-Rated Rosé This Summer. You Game?

One of the keys to Verano’s success is its strong focus on culture and hospitality. With a background in the restaurant industry, Archos emphasized the importance of a welcoming environment and excellent customer service. “Training and creating that family vibe is very important to us and then providing them a great product,” he explains. This approach has been instrumental in building a loyal customer base and a dedicated team of roughly 4,000 employees.

However, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Going public was a significant milestone for Verano, but it came with its own set of difficulties. Archos admitted that managing a public company involves more time on investor relations and less on-ground operations, which he enjoys. He shares, “Once you go public, unfortunately, you have to step away from that a little bit and spend a little bit more time on investor relations and traveling.” Despite these challenges, Archos has adapted and now sees the benefits of the increased exposure and learning experiences that come with being a public company.

Related: A Look Inside the Company That Is Making $500 Million a Year Serving Italian Beef Sandwiches Made Famous by ‘The Bear’

Archos’s advice to fellow entrepreneurs is straightforward: make decisions and learn from them. He stresses the importance of trusting one’s gut and not being afraid to pivot if needed. “You have to make that decision. You have to trust yourself and you have to move forward,” he advises. This mindset has helped Verano navigate the volatile cannabis market and position itself for future growth. Looking ahead, Archos envisions continued success for Verano, driven by a commitment to quality, community, and innovation.

Watch all episodes of The CEO Series here

Business leaders and CEOs are voicing well wishes for former President Donald Trump following the attempt on his life at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday, which claimed the life of one spectator and injured two others.

Before Trump announced Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance as his VP pick on Monday, public figures and tech leaders including Mark Cuban, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk condemned the violence, and, in some cases, even endorsed the presidential candidate.

Related: Mark Cuban Warns About Fake Fundraisers on Social Media After Assassination Attempt: ‘Makes Things Worse’

Here are how CEOs and business leaders reacted to the weekend’s events.

Mark Zuckerberg

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg took to Threads to pen a message calling for a “quick recovery” for Trump, saying that Saturday was a “sad day” for America and noted that “political violence undermines democracy.”

Zuckerberg is not affiliated with any political party, though a 2019 Time report found that the billionaire was quietly recommending potential hires to now-U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign team.

Jeff Bezos

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos praised Trump on X for his “tremendous grace and courage” and mourned the other victims of the violence along with their families.

Our former President showed tremendous grace and courage under literal fire tonight. So thankful for his safety and so sad for the victims and their families.

— Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) July 14, 2024

Bezos has previously donated to both Democratic and Republican candidates and organizations, including former President Barack Obama and former President Donald Trump. He has yet to endorse a candidate for the 2024 election.

He is also the owner of The Washington Post.

Tim Cook

The Apple CEO strongly condemned the violence and said that he hoped Trump would have a “rapid recovery.”

I pray for President Trump’s rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence.

— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) July 14, 2024

Cook and Trump met a number of times during Trump’s presidency, particularly during Washington’s trade war with Beijing, China, a place where Apple produces much of its product base.

“I feel very strongly about engaging with people regardless of whether they agree with you or not,” Cook told GQ last April regarding his meetings with the former president. “I actually think it’s even more important to engage when there’s disagreement.”

Brian Chesky

The Airbnb CEO shared on X that he was “horrified” by the attempted assassination and said that he was “thankful” for Trump’s safety.

I’m horrified by today’s political violence, and I’m thankful President Trump wasn’t seriously injured. My thoughts are with him and his family.

— Brian Chesky (@bchesky) July 14, 2024

Chesky expressed criticism over Trump’s desire to build a wall between Mexico and the U.S. at a 2016 panel at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. In 2022, he donated $100 million to the Obama Foundation.

Related: Elon Musk Endorses Trump, Says ‘Dangerous Times Ahead’

“Anyone who tries to put up barriers against culture is going to be on the wrong side of history,” Chesky said at the time.

Mark Cuban

Cuban took to X in a series of posts that thanked the U.S. Secret Service for their actions.

Let’s just hope the former President is Ok and no one else was injured.

And let’s hope they catch the idiot who did this. This is not the way

And thank you to the Secret Service who put themselves in harms way to protect the former President

— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) July 13, 2024

Cuban also took the opportunity to warn his followers about potential grifters and scammers who may take advantage of the tragedy to steal funds through fake fundraisers that claim to raise money for victims.

I know some people may say it’s not the right time to share this. But, I don’t think anyone disagrees that there are a lot of bots and fake accounts on social media.

When tragedy and horrific events like the assassination attempt on former President Trump happens, it brings… https://t.co/DgiOd0r6Y8

— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) July 14, 2024

Cuban has often been critical of Trump and has made it clear that he is not endorsing him for President.

“I’m no supporter of Trump,” Cuban said in a March 2024 post on X. “That’s for damn sure.”

Elon Musk

Elon Musk formally endorsed Trump for President following the shooting on Saturday, just one day after a Bloomberg report revealed that Musk had donated to Trump’s 2024 campaign.

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery pic.twitter.com/ZdxkF63EqF

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024

Apple entered the AI game last month with Apple Intelligence, a suite of new features designed to bring AI straight to iPhone, iPad, and Mac screens. Apple’s AI has a catch though: it only works on the newest iPhones and it could be the reason why millions of iPhone users with older models seriously think about upgrading, say Morgan Stanley analysts.

Morgan Stanley analysts named Apple a top-pick stock on Monday, after which Apple shares jumped to an all-time high, per Bloomberg. Apple Intelligence is a “clear catalyst” for iPhone upgrades and will enable Apple to sell nearly half a billion iPhones in the next two years, analyst Eric Woodring stated.

Apple Intelligence is expected to come out this fall for the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max — older iPhones will not have access to Apple’s AI. The update offers AI-generated emojis, a smarter Siri, and direct access to ChatGPT, though some anticipated Siri AI upgrades may arrive next year.

Related: Apple Is Expanding What The iPhone Can Do. Here’s What’s Changing Right Away.

“We believe that there is record level of pent-up demand entering the iPhone 16 cycle later this year,” Woodring noted, adding that Apple Intelligence delivers “unique-to-the-Apple-ecosystem” value.

Morgan Stanley previously forecasted that Apple would sell around 230 million iPhones in the same time frame, making the new prediction more than double the previous one.

Apple is also uniquely positioned to be the AI “base camp” for its customers, “just as it has done for digital content (iPod) and social media (iPhone),” wrote Morgan Stanley analyst Ananda Baruah.

^{Apple CEO Tim Cook waves to customers before they enter Apple’s 5th Avenue store. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)}

Other analysts at different firms have made similar predictions. Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives told Reuters in June that more than 15% of existing iPhone users could buy the new iPhone Apple is expected to release this fall.

Related: Apple Labels These 3 Iconic Products ‘Vintage,’ and Soon-to-Be ‘Obsolete’

Ives estimated that 270 million iPhone users have not bought a new model in the past four years.

More than half of Apple’s overall revenue in the second quarter of 2024 came from iPhones; Apple has the majority of the market share for smartphones in the U.S.

At the time of writing, Apple was the largest company in the world with a $3.584 trillion market cap. Microsoft, Nvidia, Google, and Amazon followed.

Related: Warren Buffett Had to Work From His iPhone After Telephone Lines Went Down at Berkshire Hathaway: ‘I’m Glad We Didn’t Sell All of Our Apple’

Shortly after former President Donald was pulled off stage by Secret Service agents after a failed assassination attempt on Saturday, Elon Musk posted his support on X, stating: “I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.”

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery pic.twitter.com/ZdxkF63EqF

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024

The official endorsement follows Musk contributing to a pro-Trump political action committee, per Bloomberg.

While not entirely unexpected if you have been following most recent Musk’s posts about politics and business, this does come as a notable shift given that he was once an outspoken supporter of Democratic candidates Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Joe Biden.

Related: Mark Cuban Warns About Fake Fundraisers on Social Media After Assassination Attempt: ‘Makes Things Worse’

Beyond the political, cultural, and business implications of his support, the Tesla CEO also raised alarms regarding personal security threats, stating that there have been two attempts on his life since he moved the company from California to Texas.

Dangerous times ahead.

Two people (separate occasions) have already tried to kill me in the past 8 months. They were arrested with guns about 20 mins drive from Tesla HQ in Texas.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

Read more at Wall Street Journal

World Environment Day, the United Nations’ day to promote awareness of the environment and encourage action, recently took place and is a good reminder of how important it is for companies of all sizes to assess their environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals and sustainability efforts. Awareness and action however are evergreen. Recent statistics show sustainability matters more than ever to consumers and employees; nearly 70% of workers said they would be more likely to accept a job at an organization considered to be environmentally sustainable, even if it meant a lower salary.

It’s important for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to keep these statistics in mind, because not only can a business’ sustainability efforts attract top talent, but they can also have financial benefits for the company. For example, investing in quality tech products that can be easily repaired and upgraded helps to extend the product lifespan and build a more sustainable tech industry, saving money that would otherwise be spent on new devices.

I’ve always believed sustainability is all about finding solutions with a meaningful long-term impact and how we can work together towards a better tomorrow. Fortunately, sustainability is at the core of what we’re doing at Lenovo. Not only have we developed plastic-free packaging for many of our products, but we’ve also taken important steps to help customers improve their carbon footprint. We recently launched Lenovo’s Intelligent Sustainability Solutions Advisor (LISSA), an AI-powered sustainability engine that gives customers actionable insights to understand the estimated emissions impact across their IT lifecycle and deploy customized solutions that align with their sustainability goals.

Lenovo is also committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 with science-based targets validated through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Net-Zero Standard.

Here are three essential ways your SMB can integrate sustainability throughout the business.

Related: 6 Ways to Build Sustainable Principles Into Your Business

1. Reduce, reuse, repair

Waste from electronic devices is often overlooked, but it’s a huge problem and increasing. According to the United Nations, around 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste are produced every year worldwide.

That’s why the phrase “reduce, reuse, repair” should be top of mind for all SMBs that want to be more sustainable.

One way to reduce waste is to implement circular practices for electronic devices within your business. Part of this means embracing practices that prioritize product longevity and repairability.

Invest in quality tech products and laptops that are designed to be easily repaired and upgraded, thereby extending their lifespan. Look for repair-friendly technology that has easily replaceable parts for your employees. Employees will be able to quickly DIY their repairs, reducing the downtime they would normally spend waiting for support.

2. The power of packaging

Business owners often overlook the role packaging plays in their sustainability practices, but it’s a serious issue. Worldwide e-commerce used approximately 2.1 billion pounds of plastic packaging in 2019, and this number is projected to more than double to 4.5 billion pounds by 2025. This means sustainable packaging is extremely important not only for the products companies sell, but also for the devices they choose to purchase.

When possible, SMB owners should purchase products that use recycled, renewable and bio-based materials. For example, bamboo and sugarcane fiber are great alternative options to traditional packaging because they are made with 100% renewable materials. So, looking for partners and vendors that focus on reducing packaging consumption and promotes an ecosystem of more sustainable practices and solutions.

SMBs that sell physical products should take similar steps to ensure that they are not producing excess waste through their packing and shipping processes by ensuring they are sustainably made and recyclable. Highlighting sustainable packaging is not only beneficial to the environment, but will also resonate with environmentally conscious consumers, and could have a positive financial impact for your brand. Recent surveys, including those conducted by IBM with NRF and the Baker Retailing Center at the University of Pennsylvania, found between half to two-thirds of consumers say they will pay more for sustainable products; for consumers ages 18 to 34, the number jumps to 80%, according to a Business of Sustainability Index report.

Related: How Your Business Can Unpack and Prioritize Sustainability Through Recycling

3. Invest in the future

Sustainability can be further integrated into your business by investing in the future, which could include activities such as exploring avenues for recycling, limiting energy consumption, and supporting sustainable charities or initiatives. For example, investing in tech products that have a long battery life reduces energy consumption and e-waste. Plus, working with organizations like the Global Electronics Counsel, which promotes the purchase of sustainable technology, could have long-term benefits.

Adopting energy-efficient practices, participating in recycling programs and supporting sustainable causes not only contributes to a positive corporate image but also nurtures a sense of responsibility among employees and customers. By investing in the future, your SMB can actively participate in developing a more sustainable tech industry.

World Environment Day serves as a good reminder for SMBs to reflect on the ways they can play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future for all, but businesses should remember that environmental awareness isn’t just one day.

E-waste is an issue that is not going away anytime soon and is a significant environmental concern, so remembering to “reduce, reuse, repair” (and also recycle) can help make the tech industry more environmentally friendly. Prioritizing sustainability is not just a trend; it is a fundamental facet of your business that can attract top talent, foster better financial decisions and perhaps most importantly, have a positive impact on our planet.

AT&T revealed on Friday that a massive data hack, originally exposed in April, may have been worse than previously thought.

The call and text logs of “nearly all” of its cellular customers have been exposed in the breach.

“In April, AT&T learned that customer data was illegally downloaded from our workspace on a third-party cloud platform,” the company said in a statement. “We launched an investigation and engaged leading cybersecurity experts to understand the nature and scope of the criminal activity. We have taken steps to close off the illegal access point.”

The compromised data includes files containing AT&T records of calls and texts of “nearly all” of AT&T’s cellular customers from May 1, 2022 – October 31, 2022. Per CNN, at the end of 2022, AT&T had 110 million wireless subscribers.

The company said the data “does not contain the content of calls or texts, personal information such as Social Security numbers, dates of birth, or other personally identifiable information.”

“At this time, we do not believe that the data is publicly available,” AT&T said in the statement. “We are working with law enforcement in its efforts to arrest those involved in the incident. We understand that at least one person has been apprehended.”

Customers can visit att.com/DataIncident for more information.

^{[Original story below from 4/1/2024]}

Current and former AT&T customers beware.

The mobile and internet service provider confirmed over the weekend the company suffered from a massive data breach that may have leaked the personal information of an estimated 7.6 million current AT&T customers and 65.4 million former customers, totaling 73 million users affected.

AT&T said that, roughly two weeks ago, the data set was leaked to the “dark web.” It’s unclear if the leak originated from AT&T or a third-party vendor.

Related: ‘I Want a Free Month’: Thousands of Customers Furious at AT&T After Widespread Outages

Compromised data may include social security numbers, full names, phone numbers, AT&T account information (numbers and passcodes), and email and mailing addresses.

“Currently, AT&T does not have evidence of unauthorized access to its systems resulting in exfiltration of the data set. The company is communicating proactively with those impacted and will be offering credit monitoring at our expense where applicable,” the company said in a release. “As of today, this incident has not had a material impact on AT&T’s operations.”

The company also clarified that the data “appears” to be from accounts created in 2019 or earlier.

News of the leak was originally posted on X by tech account @vx-underground on March 17, which claimed that “the stolen data is legitimate” and was leaked onto dark web platform Breached.

Today 70,000,000+ records from an unspecified division of AT&T were leaked onto Breached. No information is available to indicate whether it is a 3rd party compromise, or which ‘division’ this data is from.

Regardless, upon review, we can confirm the stolen data is legitimate.

— vx-underground (@vxunderground) March 17, 2024

Earlier this year, in February, AT&T suffered a mass outage that affected roughly 75% of the company’s total customers. CEO John Stankey confirmed that customers who were “most affected” by the service disruption will receive a $5 credit to their account.

Related: Maine Hacked in Data Breach, 1.3 Million Residents At Risk

“Moments like these are a test of resilience,” Stankey wrote at the time in an internal memo. “This is not our first network outage, and it won’t be our last – unfortunately, it’s the reality of our business. What matters most is how we react, adapt, and improve to deliver the service our customers need and expect.”

AT&T was down over 10.5% year over year as of Monday morning.

For first-time startup founders, the pressure to get funding feels stronger than for experienced folks. These emotions are totally understandable because choosing your first investor significantly impacts your venture’s long-term success.

So, what should your first investor be like, and how do you choose them? Here are five must-have qualities that you need to be looking for in your first investor to set the stage for a strong and mutually beneficial partnership that will support your startup’s growth and success in the long run.

1. Shared enthusiasm for your company’s vision

Finding an investor who shares your passion and enthusiasm for your startup’s mission and values is paramount. Look for someone who resonates with the problem you’re solving and the impact you aspire to create.

When your investor is genuinely excited about your startup’s purpose, it fosters a shared sense of commitment and dedication. This alignment cultivates a strong connection, enhancing mutual efforts towards achieving your goals.

Drawing from the gaming industry, where GEM Capital is a reputable investor, a successful mobile game publisher is unlikely to be enthusiastic about backing the development of a new AAA shooter for PC and consoles. It’s all about finding the right fit.

A good match will comprehend and align with your startup’s long-term vision and objectives. It goes beyond providing financial support; it requires a profound understanding of where you envision taking your startup. Seek someone who can offer strategic insights and guidance that harmonize with your growth trajectory.

Related: 5 Surprising Qualities Investors Look For in a Winning Team

2. Extensive network of useful contacts

An investor with a robust network can grant you access to resources crucial for your startup’s advancement. This includes strategic partners, top-tier talent, reliable suppliers, and efficient distribution channels. Leveraging these invaluable resources, your startup gains a competitive edge and establishes a solid foundation for long-term success.

Seek an investor who can introduce you to influential figures in your industry or target market, whether industry mavens, opinion leaders or prospective clients. By facilitating meaningful connections, your investor empowers you to gain insights and seize new opportunities.

Related: The Key Traits of Patient and Successful Investors

3. Knowledge and extensive experience

Look for an investor with a proven track record of successful investments. Their past successes demonstrate their ability to identify promising opportunities, overcome challenges and achieve favorable returns. Partnering with such an investor grants you access to valuable insights and guidance.

It’s best if they also possess deep industry-specific knowledge and insights relevant to your startup’s field. Their familiarity with market trends, emerging technologies, and industry dynamics can provide you with a competitive advantage.

By tapping into their expertise, you can better understand your target market, refine your product or service offerings, and develop effective go-to-market strategies. Many investors are eager to discuss their superpowers, so feel free to ask what sets them apart from other funds.

4. Transparency, mutual respect and reliability

An investor who prioritizes transparent dialogue and values your insights lays the groundwork for a robust partnership. Transparency nurtures trust, empowering founders to make informed choices. Knowing their investor operates with honesty and integrity ensures alignment in goals and expectations.

In turbulent times, you need a helping hand from a wise mentor who shares the same risks with you rather than a prosecutor looking for a paycheck.

Feedback from an investor’s portfolio companies is one of the best signs of trustworthiness. A reliable investor fulfills their commitments and stands by founders through trials and triumphs alike. Consistency in actions and words enhances credibility and fortifies the bedrock of trust in the investor-founder relationship.

Related: 4 Things Investors Are Actually Looking For in Financial Forecasts

5. Long haul commitment capability

An investor who remains open to navigating unforeseen challenges and changes in direction exemplifies resilience. Being ready to stand by your side through various growth and evolution stages demonstrates dedication beyond financial backing. It ensures the startup can weather uncertainties and seize emerging opportunities effectively.

Founders should always be on the lookout for new funding opportunities, as this also reinforces the confidence of existing investors. However, in a challenging situation, an investor who possesses the financial resources to support the startup’s evolving needs instills confidence in its future trajectory.

When making decisions about investors, always research how confidently they stand on their own feet. For example, end-of-life cycle funds may not have sufficient resources to support the company further.

All in all, as you can see, the science of choosing the best investor for a startup has nothing to do with stumbling through the darkness or sheer luck. A founder can use certain criteria to evaluate potential partnerships, which allows for the elimination of doubts and finding the best match for long-term success.

Your Instagram feed may look like everyone’s in Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games, but at least one airline says travelers may not be flocking to the City of Light during the world’s biggest sporting event.

Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian told CNBC that the company will lose $100 million this summer as customers without Olympics tickets opt out of a Parisian vacation.

Related: These Are the Airlines With the Most Satisfied Customers, According to a New Report

“Unless you’re going to the Olympics, people aren’t going to Paris … very few are,” Bastian said. “Business travel, you know, other types of tourism is potentially going elsewhere.”

Of all major U.S. airlines, Delta serves the most flights to Paris, thanks to a joint partnership with Air France. Delta flies around 14 nonstop flights daily from France to the U.S. and per data cited by CNBC, Delta and Air France make up an estimated 70% of all nonstop flights between the countries.

“Outside of this temporary event, summer travel demand to Europe is strong and consistent with our expectations,” said Glen Hauenstein, Delta president, during a call with investors.

Air France is also independently feeling the strain, forecasting a revenue loss of up to 180 million Euro or nearly $195.5 million between June and August of this year “due to the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, with traffic to and from the French capital lagging behind other major European cities.”

The airline said that travel to and from the country is expected to “normalize” following the games ending with demand returning.

“International markets show a significant avoidance of Paris,” Air France said in a release earlier this month. “Travel between the city and other destinations is also below the usual June-August average as residents in France seem to be postponing their holidays until after the Olympic Games or considering alternative travel plans.”

Related: Major U.S. Airlines Are Suing the Government Over ‘Capricious’ Fee Transparency Law

The 2024 Summer Olympic Games Begin on Friday, July 26, and run through Sunday, August 11.

Delta reported a record Q2 operating revenue of $15.4 billion during its Q2 2024 earnings release on Thursday — a 5.4% increase from the same time last year.

The airline also forecasted a 2-4% year-over-year increase in total revenue during Q3 of 2024.

“Peak summer travel demand remains strong and Delta is delivering elevated experiences for our customers,” Hauenstein said in a company release.

Delta was down just over 8.5% year over year as of Friday morning.

In order to write, lead advertising campaigns, and power side hustles AI needs training material. ChatGPT needed about 300 billion words to get off the ground and continues to train itself based on how users interact with it.

However, human beings aren’t being credited or compensated for creating the content that AI is eating up. Authors, artists, and news organizations have already filed countless copyright lawsuits against AI giants like OpenAI and Microsoft as they find that AI bots can talk about their copyrighted work “too accurately” — indicating that the works are in the AI’s training data.

That’s why Microsoft’s AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman was asked at the Aspen Ideas Festival in late June if AI companies have essentially stolen the world’s intellectual property.

Suleyman’s answer? Almost all content on the Internet, with one possible exception, is fair game for AI training.

Related: A Microsoft-Partnered AI Startup Is Being Sued By the Biggest Record Labels in the World

“I think that with respect to content that is already on the open web, the social contract of that content since the ’90s has been that it is fair use,” Suleyman said.

Suleyman stated that “anyone” can copy or recreate the content on the open web.

“That has been freeway,” he said. “That’s been the understanding.”

However, some news sites and publishers have asked not to be scraped or crawled.

“That’s the gray area and I think that’s going to work its way through the courts,” Suleyman said.

^{Mustafa Suleyman. Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg via Getty Images}

Suleyman leads Microsoft AI at a time when Microsoft has invested billions into the technology. His position on what is fair use and what isn’t fleshes out how AI companies might defend intellectual property allegations in court.

OpenAI, for example, has allegedly used more than a million hours of YouTube videos to train ChatGPT. When asked whether YouTube or social media videos were used to make OpenAI’s video generator Sora, the company’s chief technology officer Mira Murati said, “We used publicly available data and licensed data” and wouldn’t specify further.

AI also appears to be eating work generated by other AI, resulting in lower-quality output. Experts estimate that 90% of online content will be AI-generated within the next two years.

Related: The Most Downloaded News App in the U.S. May Have Published Dozens of Fake, AI-Written Stories