Things Have Changed

Ever wondered how startups grow by buying other companies?  Today on Things Have Changed, we're delighted to host returning guest, Dylan Terrill, Chief Business Officer of Asaak, as he discusses his company's remarkable expansion, now spanning two continents. Asaak, founded in 2016, is a fintech company offering loans for motorcycles and smartphones to people who couldn't get traditional bank loans. This approach not only addressed a critical financial gap but also spurred economic empowerment in Uganda.Now they've set their sights on to Mexico, through a strategic acquisition of FlexClub Mexico. With over 300,000 active Uber drivers and a smartphone penetration of 93%, yet with less than half the adult population banked, Mexico presents a fertile ground for Asaak's mission-driven approach. This move raises several questions: How will Asaak's experience in Uganda's unique market translate to Mexico's diverse economy? With Mexico's significant unbanked population, what new opportunities and challenges will Asaak encounter?Join us on Things Have Changed for a deep dive into Asaak's groundbreaking journey and the visionary leadership steering it into new frontiers.Support the showThings Have Changed

We've all been there: mid-conversation or deep into a work session, only for our digital lifeline to suddenly drop, leaving us stranded in a sea of silence. It's these moments of unexpected disconnection that highlight a pervasive gap in our modern, connected lives.Well, Today on Things Have Changed Podcast, we're joined by Damien Garot, CEO, and Hassan Aouisse, CTO of Stellar, a deep tech startup on a mission to perfect internet while on the move. Through their innovative blend of cellular, Wi-Fi, and satellite technologies, they're tackling the universal challenge of reliable connectivity, promising a future where digital accessibility knows no bounds.Join us as we delve into the journey of Stellar, uncovering the inspirations, challenges, and breakthroughs that mark their path towards a seamlessly connected world. This episode is more than just a peek into the future of technology; it's a conversation about how bridging the digital divide can reshape our daily lives, making every moment of connection count.So stay curious, and let's explore together how Stellar is lighting up the dark spots on our digital maps, ensuring that no call, no message, and no byte of data is ever lost in transit again.Support the showThings Have Changed

Palmer Luckey, once synonymous with the virtual reality revolution through the Oculus Rift, catapulted into tech stardom when Facebook acquired Oculus for an astonishing $2 billion. This pivotal moment not only validated VR's potential as the next major computing platform but also marked a turning point in Luckey's career. His journey from crafting immersive digital worlds to influencing tangible, real-world outcomes began here, setting the stage for an unexpected pivot towards a sector far removed from gaming and entertainment: defense.Transitioning from virtual reality to the defense industry, Luckey embarked on a new venture, founding Anduril Industries. This shift was motivated by a desire to innovate within a sector known for its resistance to change, leveraging cutting-edge technology to address modern security challenges. Anduril's inception represented a bold move into a domain dominated by longstanding giants, with Luckey aiming to infuse the agility and innovation of Silicon Valley into the traditionally conservative defense industry.Anduril Industries stands as a testament to this vision, actively dismantling the traditional cost-plus model that has long governed defense procurement. By adopting a tech-driven approach, Anduril is navigating the "Valley of Death" – the daunting gap between prototype development and full-scale production that many defense startups face. Through strategic investments in autonomous systems and AI, Anduril is not just surviving this transitional phase but thriving, offering scalable, efficient solutions that promise to reshape the landscape of global defense, signaling a new era where technology drives strategy, and innovation ensures security.Support the showThings Have Changed

In the past two decades, technology has dramatically reshaped numerous industries, from newspapers to travel agencies. Once thriving sectors have been disrupted, evidenced by the decline of traditional newspapers, which lost $6 billion in ad revenue to Craigslist alone between 2000 and 2006. Similarly, the rise of platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Airbnb reflects a significant shift in consumer behavior. Now, this wave of technological disruption is poised to redefine the defense industry, a sector traditionally characterized by unique procurement practices and significant government contracts. 📰📱The defense sector, once dominated by a handful of major players following a wave of consolidation in the 1990s, is now facing a new challenge: tech-driven transformation. The industry's "cost-plus" methodology, which often leads to inefficiencies and misaligned incentives, is now being scrutinized by tech companies. These new entrants see an opportunity to leverage their expertise in optimizing processes and margins. As tech companies bring their innovative approaches to defense, they're catalyzing a shift towards more efficient and cost-effective solutions. 🚀Yet, the integration of tech into defense is not without its challenges. Traditional defense contractors are deeply entrenched, familiar with the intricacies of government contracts and regulations. However, companies like SpaceX and Palantir are advocating for more accessible pathways for smaller contractors, potentially leading to greater innovation and competition in the sector. This evolution in the defense industry mirrors the broader impact of tech across various markets, raising questions about the future of defense technology and its implications. 🌐🛰️Support the showThings Have Changed

E-bike sales outpaced EVs and hybrid cars in both 2021 and 2022. In fact, research shows that by 2030, E-Bike sales are expected to 3x, outpacing even the rapid growth of passenger cars! There is a Bike Revolution taking place across the world and it is not only reshaping personal commuting but also freight and last-mile delivery services.In today's episode of Things Have Changed Podcast, we dive into the world of urban mobility with Mikko Ampuja, the founder and former CEO of Vapaus, a Helsinki-based startup reshaping the way we think about city commuting. Miko brings a unique blend of personal experience and industry expertise, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and urban planning.Miko delves into the evolving bicycle industry across Europe, particularly in cycling-friendly cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, highlighting how innovations in cycling are not just about transportation, but also about fostering healthier, more sustainable cities. Join us on Things Have Changed Podcast as we explore how Vapaus is leading the global movement, with their unique approach to making cycling an accessible and attractive option for commuters.Support the showThings Have Changed

There is an alarming trend taking place in South America : the steady rise in obesity rates. Despite all the ads and talk about eating healthy, the truth is that getting  access to nutritious foods is still a struggle.In response to this growing health crisis, The Wild Foods has emerged as a game-changer. Our guest today is Patrick Hardy, the Chief Operating Officer of Wild Foods, is at the forefront of this revolution. Hailing from Chile, WildFoods is a consumer packaged goods company committed to disrupting the entire food and beverage industry by producing healthy and sustainable food products.Patrick takes us through Wild Foods' remarkable journey, sharing the CPG company's strategies that include:Focus not just on Healthy products but one that is easily accessible, delicious, and appealing to consumersLeveraging unique digital marketing and bold ad campaigns, to set itself apart in the competitive food industryGrowth to new markets like Mexico by adapting to local tastes and regulations.Join us on the Things Have Changed Podcast to hear from Patrick Hardy and find out how Wild Foods is making healthy eating fun and doable, turning things around in a world full of processed food, and setting new standards for what's on our plates.Helpful links:Patrick Hardy, COO The Wild FoodsThe Wild Foods WebsiteUS website — https://thewildprotein.com/Supermarkets pushing junk foodObesity in South AmericaAbout Wild Foods:Wild Foods is a healthy food company focused on developing tech-enabled products with the aim of disrupting the Food & Beverages (F&B) industry in Latin America. They have developed a portfolio of +200 SKUs that has allowed them to capture +30% of the market share in Chile in the bars category, on-top of multinational incumbents such as Kellogs, Pepsico, Nutresa, among others. They have a business model based on innovation in product development, digital brand building, digital marketing, technology and talent acquisition. Wild Foods has built a strong, profitable, high-growth business that has experienced 2-3x yoy growth for the past five years with consistently positive EBITDA. Wild Foods continues with its growth and international expansion plans with presence in Chile, Mexico, USA, Colombia and Peru.Support the showThings Have Changed

Join us on a captivating journey to the heart of the Middle East as we unravel the extraordinary transformation of Dubai. In this episode, we delve deep into the city's meteoric rise from a regional trading post reliant on oil to a buzzing global hub for investment, tourism, and technology. Discover how Dubai's strategic diversification efforts led to an economy where oil now contributes less than 1% to its GDP, a stark contrast to the 50% it once commanded. We'll explore the pivotal roles of initiatives like the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority, which revolutionized trade, and examine how Dubai's strategic location and business-friendly policies catapulted it into a major player in global finance. This episode is not just about economic growth; it's a story of vision, innovation, and ambition. Tune in to see how Dubai emerged as the tech hub of the Arab world, setting a new standard for urban transformation and development.Helpful Links:https://www.brookings.edu/articles/what-the-united-arab-emirates-can-teach-resource-rich-countries-in-africa/https://www.wsj.com/articles/dubai-emerges-as-tech-hub-of-the-arab-world-11646568001https://web.archive.org/web/20180317113009/https://www.bloomberg.com/view/articles/2018-01-14/dubai-s-the-very-model-of-a-modern-mideast-economyhttps://www.investmentmonitor.ai/features/where-are-the-global-islamic-finance-hubs/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/dubais-stock-market-hits-8-year-high-lifted-101519465https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oc5tHbEK0IQSupport the showThings Have Changed

Over the past few weeks, we've delved deep into the stories of remarkable companies, visionary founders, and dynamic landscapes of emerging markets!So, where are we zooming in today? Nigeria, Africa. We're exploring the remarkable story of Nigeria, a nation that has emerged as the largest economy in Africa. With a diversified economy and abundant natural resources, Nigeria’s journey isn't just about oil anymore. It’s about tech, entertainment, and an entrepreneurial spirit that refuses to be quelled.Join us as we dive into the secrets behind Nigeria's transformation on the global stage, exploring the factors that propelled it to an economic powerhouse on the African continent.Support the showThings Have Changed

Ever wondered how a nation transforms from a war-torn past to a thriving economic powerhouse? Vietnam's transformation has been nothing short of astonishing, as it deftly navigated through technological advancements and strategic partnerships to establish itself as a pivotal player in the global trade landscape. This Asian tiger, now a central hub for manufacturing, produces a wide range of goods, from shoes to cutting-edge technology, harnessing the potential of the internet, smartphones, cloud computing, and data.If you are currently listening to this podcast on a smartphone, there's a significant likelihood that the device was manufactured in Vietnam. Notably, mobile phones represent Vietnam's top export, generating export revenues exceeding $45 billion in 2017. In a period when global trade has stagnated, Vietnam's trade has skyrocketed, accounting for 190 percent of its GDP in 2017, up from 70 percent in 2007.So, how did Vietnam emerge as a manufacturing powerhouse? In this episode of the Things Have Changed Podcast, we shine a spotlight on Vietnam and explore how the nation has firmly positioned itself as a vital player in Asian global trade, offering a fresh narrative of prosperity in the era of Slowbalization. Join us as we delve into the heart of Vietnam's economic renaissance!Links:Joe Biden’s Visit to Hanoi is a signal to ChinaWhy are Vietnam’s schools so good?Vietnam is emerging as a winner from the era of deglobalisationVietnams Richest Man wants to sell EV’s to AmericaSupport the showThings Have Changed

Ready to embark on an enlightening journey exploring the economic evolution of Brazil? Strap in as we navigate through dramatic GDP growth, a thriving digital revolution, and Brazil's robust role in global agriculture and natural resources. This intriguing exploration uncovers the shifting landscape of globalization and how Brazil, as part of the BRICSA coalition, is carving its own path towards becoming a top five economy.As we traverse through Brazil's economic terrain, we'll cast a spotlight on its burgeoning agricultural exports and reliance on the same. We'll also examine how the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted its economic momentum while highlighting the significance of monetary policy, past inflation hurdles, and the current favorable trends fostering business growth. From there, we segue into Brazil's burgeoning tech space and the potential growth there, underscoring its sustainability initiatives.Lastly, we broaden our lens to capture the pulsating industries in Latin America, discussing the EU-Mercosur trade pact and its economic implications. We'll touch upon the rising tech companies in Brazil and the immense benefits of regional partnerships within Latin America. Together, we'll dissect the need for sustainable leadership in Brazil and the broader region, and Brazil's role in global economics amidst the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Be prepared for an informative journey that dissects Brazil's economic strategies and its resilience in weathering global economic storms. So, are you ready to explore Brazil's exciting role in globalization and economics? Because we're ready to take you there. Join us in this enlightening journey of discovery and insight, as we navigate the fascinating economic landscape of Brazil.Support the showThings Have Changed

In the past few decades, it's been like watching the world shrink right in front of us. Globalization has turned our planet into this super connected place where everything's buzzing. Borders? They've become kinda blurry. Businesses? Oh man, they're popping up all over the globe. And tech? Well, it's like the ultimate game-changer, making even the most remote spots possible market hotspots.But winds of change are blowing once again. Enter: Slowbalization. While it might sound like we're hitting the brakes, it's a bit more complicated than that. Countries are revisiting the whole global trade angle thanks to the volatile past few years we’ve witnessed - from rising trade tensions, evolving geopolitics, and supply chain crises driven by COVID. We're moving from that whole worldwide party mode to a chill regional hangout scene.In this series on Things Have Changed Podcast, we're going to unravel the layers behind this shift. Specifically, Mexico is emerging as a standout beneficiary, as US companies aim to divest from China and invest closer to home!Amidst the intricacies of Slowbalization, Mexico emerges as a standout beneficiary. As the whirlwind of global trade cools and countries seek more regional, strategic partnerships, Mexico's geographical proximity to the US and robust trade agreements place it at a pivotal position.As companies reevaluate supply chains and lean towards nearshoring, Mexico's blend of competitive labor costs, established manufacturing prowess, and its strengthened ties with the U.S. through agreements like the USMCA, makes it a beacon for businesses looking for agility and resilience in this new economic landscape. In essence, Slowbalization is opening doors for Mexico that globalization merely hinted at.Helpful Links:https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/mexico-nearshoring-gdp-growthhttps://www.wsj.com/articles/mexicos-industrial-hubs-grow-as-part-of-trade-shift-toward-nearshoring-11675257070https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-u-s-and-china-are-breaking-up-in-charts-282bd878?mod=Searchresults_pos5&page=1https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-06-28/supply-chain-latest-us-nearshoring-proof-grows-as-mexico-exports-jump?in_source=embedded-checkout-banner#xj4y7vzkgDisclaimer: The information and opinions expressed in this episode are for informational purposes only and are not intended as financial, investment, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content provided. Neither the podcast nor its creators are responsible for any actions taken as a result of listening to this episode.Support the showThings Have Changed

Imagine navigating the often-complex world of equity management with ease. Picture illuminating the path to growth opportunities that you were previously oblivious to. That's exactly what our guest, Peter Walker, head of insights at CARTA, is here to discuss. CARTA is reshaping equity management and providing invaluable insights to companies like Slack, Coinbase, and Robinhood, enabling them to focus on their core mission - building their company. Peter stresses the importance of a clear cap table for investors and how CARTA is revolutionizing this process. Ever wondered how first-time founders transform into second-time founders, and in the process, create more owners in the ecosystem? CARTA's insights can guide you on this journey. Peter shares how CARTA's cross-functional collaborations between data and marketing teams make their data more valuable for the ecosystem. CARTA's mission to become the infrastructure for startups, and its data-driven approach, is indeed intriguing and holds immense potential for entrepreneurs.Lastly, we delve into Peter’s exciting journey in DataViz and CARTA's bold moves in the VC and liquidity space. He reveals the importance of tooling and iteration in data storytelling and how companies can optimize their buying process. We also discuss trends in startup valuations, employee options and their implications on company acquisitions. CARTA's role in educating employees on equity management and making informed financial decisions is also brought to light. It's a captivating discussion you don't want to miss. Hop in for an enlightening conversation on the future of equity management.Support the showThings Have Changed

On our previous episode, we spoke about the Buy Now Pay Later industry and the players that rode the pandemic to all time highs! But what we didn’t talk about was the chaos that ensued post covid!..Affirm's stock price dropped over 90% since November 2021, AfterPay fell more than 80%, and Klarna saw a decline of over 70%.So what's behind this turbulence? Rising interest rates, inflation concerns, and worries about consumer debt have left investors scratching their heads. But don't worry, we're here to make sense of it all!In this episode, we'll explore the challenges facing the BNPL industry and how it's adapting to the economic storm. We'll also discuss the importance of responsible spending and share some tips to ensure you're making informed decisions when using BNPL services.Regulatory Scrutiny. BNPL is a relatively new product, and there is no clear regulatory framework for it. This has led to concerns about consumer protection and financial stability. Some BNPL companies have been fined for violating regulations. For example, in 2022, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom fined Klarna £39 million for failing to adequately assess the affordability of its products to consumers. The FCA also fined Clearpay £20 million for similar reasons.Helpful LinksSupport the showThings Have Changed

Imagine this: you're browsing through an online store, eyeing that perfect item you've had your heart set on like the new iPhone 15 or a brand new Leather Couch to pass out on. In today’s world, you can bring it home today and pay later, without the hassle of upfront payments or credit checks. It's like having a financial genie granting your wishes! It’s called “Buy Now, Pay Later” or BNPL.This new form of payment, BNPL aims to disrupt traditional credit cards, by helping customers indulge in that must-have item and spread the cost over manageable installments. So this idea has spawned some billion-dollar businesses, but is it all sunshine and rainbows?Join us on "Things Have Changed Podcast" as we delve into the stories of how this new wave in finance is changing the way you shop online.Links:Klarna, a Swedish payments unicorn, wants to conquer AmericaWhat is Buy Now Pay LaterSome Buy Now Pay Later Users Face RejectionHere are some Companies in the space:Afterpay - The Rebellious TrendsetterThe trailblazer in the BNPL industry, boasting over 16 million users in 17 countries and processed over $12.7 billion in transactions in 2021Origin Story: Delve into the audacious tale of Afterpay's founding in 2014 by Nick Molnar and Anthony Eisen, who started the company with just two employees and transformed it into a global phenomenon with a market capitalization exceeding $37 billion.The Fashion Forward Movement: Explore Afterpay's success in partnering with over 86,000 global retailers, including industry giants like Sephora and Urban Outfitters, attracting millions of fashion-forward users who account for a significant portion of the company's average of 14 million monthly active users.Customers often leverage Afterpay to splurge on trendy clothing, shoes, and accessories, allowing them to stay on top of the latest fashion trends without breaking the bank. It's also popular for beauty and grooming products, allowing individuals to pamper themselves with skincare essentials, cosmetics, and hair care items.Revolutionizing the FinTech Landscape: Witness how Afterpay's unique approach to responsible spending has led to over 98% of its transactions being interest-free, providing users with a convenient and transparent payment option that challenges the conventional credit card model.Klarna - The Quirky ScandinavianKlarna serves over 250,000 retailers and has amassed more than 140 million users in 45 countries and processed over $15.8 billion in transactions in 2021Scandinavian Influence: Discover how Klarna's Scandinavian heritage, led by CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski, has propelled the company to process an average of 1 million transactions per day, with a transaction volume surpassing $53 billion in 2022.From Frustration to Innovation: Uncover the story behind Klarna's inception in 2005, when Sebastian Siemiatkowski, Niklas Adalberth, and Victor Jacobsson set out to simplify online checkouts. Today, Klarna's innovative solutions drive customer satisfaction, resulting in a net promoter score higher than the industry average.Customers frequently utilize Klarna for purchasing electronics, gadgets, and home appliances. Klarna also appeals to those seeking furniture and home decor items, enabling them to revamp their living spaces with ease. AdditionSupport the showThings Have Changed

In today's episode, we delve into the remarkable story of how JP Morgan Chase became the largest bank in the world. From its humble beginnings to its rise as a global financial powerhouse, we'll uncover the key milestones, strategic decisions, and factors that propelled this iconic institution to its prominent position in the banking industry. Join us as we explore the vision, innovation, and determination that shaped the legacy of JP Morgan Chase.JP Morgan Chase's journey begins in the late 19th century when a visionary named John Pierpont Morgan, known as J.P. Morgan, laid the foundation for what would become an influential banking empire. Through his shrewd business acumen and deep understanding of finance, J.P. Morgan navigated the rapidly changing landscape of the industrial revolution, capitalizing on opportunities that propelled him to the forefront of the financial world.Throughout its history, JP Morgan Chase has demonstrated its ability to adapt and evolve, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. From strategic acquisitions and partnerships to technological innovation and a relentless commitment to exceptional service, the bank has consistently stayed ahead of the curve.JP Morgan Chase played a pivotal role in the face of economic crises, such as the financial downturn of 2008, and how the institution's resilience and prudent risk management helped it emerge stronger than ever before.So, sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on an enlightening journey through the history, triumphs, and continued success of JP Morgan Chase. Helpful Links:Viva Wallet AcquisitionBattle of ScaleWhat is Bear worth?Support the showThings Have Changed

In episode 2 of the Company Spotlight series we explore the world of tech companies invading the finance industry, and specifically Apple, the tech giant that's not satisfied with just dominating the smartphone market.Apple decided to dive headfirst into the finance industry, and boy did they make a splash. With Apple Pay, you can now buy a coffee, a burrito, or even a new pair of sneakers with just a flick of your wrist. It's like magic, except it's technology.But what's even crazier is how successful it's become. Some people even say that using Apple Pay is easier than trying to navigate the maze that is your bank's mobile app. And who can blame them? With Apple Pay, you don't need to remember your pin, your password, or even your mother's maiden name. All you need is your iPhone and a few taps, and voila, you've just made a purchase.The Worlds most valuable company has its own Credit Card, is providing Loans, and even just announced a Savings Account! Is this the start of the tech domination within finance as well? Tune in!Helpful Links:Apple and Goldman Sachs Launching Credit Card - 2019Apple Should Shrink its Finance Arm before it goes Bananas - 2017Big Tech pushes further into Finance - 2022Why APples Partnership with Goldman is the future of Banking - 2023Apple is a Hedgefund that makes iPhones - 2018Watchdogs take a swipe at Apple Pay - 2022Apple Pay and Taking over your Wallet - 2022Apple Pay Fees Vex Credit Card Issuers - 2021Goldmans Subprime Problem - 2022Apples Buy Now Pay Later Roll-out - 2023Support the showThings Have Changed

Starting and scaling a successful startup has never been easy, but in today's climate, it's more challenging than ever. With recent events, such as the collapse of SVB and the slowdown in venture capital, access to funding and resources has become increasingly difficult. For startups to survive, they must have access to the right support and resources. That's where Microsoft for Startups comes in, providing startups with a unique approach to help early-stage companies succeed.On today's episode, we'll dive into how Microsoft for Startups is helping early-stage companies overcome the challenges of building and scaling their businesses. Microsoft is a new player in the startup accelerator game, but the company has a rich history as a startup itself. They started from humble beginnings in the 70s, with just two employees, and now they're a tech giant with a market cap of over $2 trillion.With Microsoft for Startups, the company is making a significant investment in the startup space. Their unique approach is designed to help early-stage companies succeed by providing access to Microsoft resources, technology, and expertise. Joining us on this episode is Lahini Arunachalam, Senior Director of Platform & Growth at Microsoft for Startups. Lahini has spent a lot of time solving problems for startups and is a leader in Microsoft's efforts to invest in the startup space.Whether you're a startup founder looking for guidance, an investor interested in the latest trends and innovations, or simply curious about the world of entrepreneurship, this episode is for you. So stay tuned as we dive into the challenges facing startups, the importance of startup accelerators, and how Microsoft for Startups is helping early-stage companies scale.Helpful Links:TechCrunch Article on How Microsoft For Startups can HelpMicrosoft for Startup adds Linkedin BenefitsMicrosoft for Startups WebsiteMicrosoft for Startups LaunchHungry for Cloud Credits?Microsoft for Startups in the Middle EastAWS vs Azure vs GoogleMicrosoft Revamps with OpenAISupport the showThings Have Changed

Governments are going BIG on batteries! As the world transitions towards cleaner energy sources, Governments have recognized the importance of securing battery supply chains in the transition towards a more sustainable future!Some of the biggest government spending packages on battery production incentives include:The US Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) loan program, which provides up to $25 billion in loan guarantees to support the development and production of fuel-efficient vehicles and related components, including batteries.The European Union's Horizon 2020 program, which includes funding for research and development of batteries and related technologies as part of its Clean Energy for All Europeans package.China's National New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Plan, which includes significant government subsidies and incentives for the development and production of electric vehicles and batteries.The UK's Faraday Battery Challenge, which includes £274 million in government funding to support the development of battery technology and promote the growth of the UK's battery manufacturing sector.South Korea's Electric Vehicle Battery Industry Cultivation Plan, which includes government funding and support for the development of the country's electric vehicle and battery manufacturing industries.These government spending packages reflect a growing global commitment to supporting the development and production of battery technology, which is seen as essential for achieving a more sustainable future. By providing incentives and funding for battery technology research and development, these packages are helping to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies.In Ep 2 with Gavin White, Co-Founder and CEO of About: Energy, we explore the various initiatives and policies implemented by countries to encourage the production of batteries.So whether you're interested in clean energy, electric vehicles, or the future of sustainability, this episode is for you! So, let's dive in!Helpful Links:https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/10/20/1062000/billions-in-funding-could-kick-start-the-us-battery-materials-industry/2022 was a record year for EV battery factories in the U.S. - NPRCATL plans Europe's biggest battery gigafactory - C&ENSupport the showThings Have Changed

It seems like every electronic device these days involves some type of battery - your phone, your laptop, and even your CAR! We had another year of SuperBowls boasting new EV production cars from traditional manufacturers like GM, Honda, and Hyundai. The consumers have spoken and the demand for EV's cannot be stopped!But what's taking so long to get to an electrified future? Have you ever wondered why it's so hard to create battery technology? Traditionally, battery research has been a slow and expensive process, with many iterations of trial and error required to find the optimal combination of materials and design. About:Energy aims to change this!Today, on Things Have Changed, we chat with Gavin White, Co-Founder & CEO of About:Energy, revolutionizing the battery industry by building a software platform that helps researchers & institutions design and optimize batteries more efficiently.Gavin discusses in detail the process of building a battery tech company in the age of sustainability:🤔 Concept & Prototyping during his PhD⭐️ Commercialization & Building “The Voltt” Software Platform💊 Pain points & Tradeoffs in the Battery Development CycleThe Voltt platform speeds up the research process while allowing for a much broader exploration of the design space, potentially unlocking new breakthroughs in battery technology.The THC team are super excited to see how Gavin & Kieran’s team, continue to innovate  towards a sustainable and better future.Helpful LInks:About:EnergyFaraday Battery ChallengeGavin White, ICLNovel methods for measuring the thermal diffusivity and the thermal conductivity of a lithium-ion batteryUniversity of Birmingham and Imperial College London aims to speed up battery developmentSupport the showThings Have Changed

The dollar tumbled to a nine-month low against the euro this past week, after data showed U.S. inflation was easing, prompting bets that the Federal Reserve will be less aggressive with rate hikes going forward. But this isn’t new.. The greenback’s share of global foreign-exchange reserves has extended a two-decade decline, but it’s still used more than all other currencies combined. For decades, the dollar has been the worlds most important currency. You buy energy in dollars, you pay back debts in dollars, and most of world trade is done in dollars. This gives the United States a unique amount of influence which some countries acknowledge is a challenge. Recently, developing countries including Brazil, Russia, India & China have been steering away from the surging US Dollar, in their global transactions. China, the worlds biggest trading partner, could also start demanding “Yuan” for it’s exports instead of dollars - I mean they’re starting to do that already! BRICS (Brazil, Russia, Inida, China, and South Africa) recently hinted at a plan to “dethrone” the dollar. A system of trade between the countries that could reduce the importance of the dollar for more than 40% of the world population. The dollar will remain the worlds reserve currency for a while but as the United States sanction countries that do not align with its political agenda, it becomes increasingly clear that dollar dominance comes at the risk of US policy alignment. Will we see the US dollar become less relevant? So today, on Things Have Changed, we’re going to talk about the US Dollar declines, why the rest of the world celebrates when this happens & the possibility of the US Dollar becoming less dominant as new contenders around the globe emerge! Support the showThings Have Changed