The Impending Commercial Robot Revolution

The robotics industry has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, thanks to progress in computer vision, dexterity, and cost efficiencies. While much of this growth has been concentrated in industrial robots—largely operating out of sight—the landscape is shifting fast. Breakthroughs in AI, mechatronics, sensors, and batteries are now setting the stage for a boom in … Read more

Navigating the Complexities of Investment Due Diligence

Investment due diligence is a critical step for both buyers and sellers to ensure smooth transaction execution. However, with high stakes involved, the process often presents challenges. Through careful planning and execution, these hurdles can be effectively managed. Why Due Diligence Matters The 2016 collapse of Theranos, once valued at $9 billion, is a stark … Read more

The Online Dating Industry: The Business of Love

Matchmaking is among the world’s oldest professions, but today, online matchmaking has taken center stage. This article dives into the business of dating, analyzing the U.S. market size for dating apps, the industry’s leading players, and the revenue strategies these platforms employ (and whether they profit). Key Highlights Market Size of Online Dating In 2018, … Read more

Corporate Tax Reform and the Future of Valuation – Part II

In his initial discussion on the implications of the new U.S. corporate tax reform, Toptal Finance Expert Jacob Wright explored one critical effect of the reform: changes to interest deductibility. In this follow-up article, Wright delves deeper, examining the impact on capital expenditures while providing a broader perspective on what an optimal capital structure may … Read more

Justifying Investments with the Capital Budgeting Process

Investment decisions should never solely rely on intuition or “gut feelings.” With a structured capital budgeting process, businesses can evaluate multiple projects systematically, identifying those that will offer the greatest value for the company. This method provides a clear framework for assessing investments in capital assets, projects, or acquisitions, allowing managers to make justifiable, data-driven … Read more

Anatomy of a Business Plan: How to Create a Roadmap for Success

Business plans are a vital tool in the early stages of any business. They guide internal operations and provide a structured foundation for fundraising, recruitment, and strategic growth. While writing a business plan may seem daunting, a thoughtfully crafted plan can make a significant difference in the trajectory of your business. This guide walks you … Read more

Fundraising Consultants vs. Broker-Dealers: Choosing the Right Partner for Your Capital Raising Needs

Fundraising is a challenging process for startups and growth companies, which is why many founders seek external expertise for guidance. Two of the most common professional options are fundraising consultants and broker-dealers (BDs). While these roles have similarities, there are key differences in their scope, compensation, and suitability for your company’s needs. Understanding these distinctions … Read more

Effective Startup Boards: What They Are and How to Build Them

For entrepreneurs, the thought of creating a board of directors can evoke mixed feelings. Some may find the idea exciting, imagining a room full of experienced leaders fostering their startup’s growth. For others, it’s intimidating, conjuring scenes of intimidating power struggles in grand boardrooms. Yet, the reality of startup boards is far from these extremes. … Read more

Caution to the Wind: Understanding the Renewable Energy Boom

Renewable energy, led by solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind power, is growing at an extraordinary pace. Technological innovations are drastically lowering the cost of generating renewable energy to levels comparable to, or even cheaper than, traditional fossil fuels. While this surge in growth and cost-efficiency is promising, a number of underlying challenges threaten the long-term … Read more