AZ Tech Roundtable 2.0

Blockchain Mass Adoption thru Casper Labs w/ Mrinal Manohar

- BRT S03 EP20 (119) 5-15-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Casper is designed to accelerate enterprise & developer adoption of blockchain technology today and evolve to meet user needs in the future.
• Blockchain: key features are missing in the industry, that hinders enterprise adoption, ease of use + speed
• Blockchain – best form of copy / data / IP protection (Smart Contracts)
• Blockchain will cost more because the security, and copy protection is better
• Fees in Blockchain are expensive & inconsistent, there is a need to standardize and make predictable

 

 

 

Guest: Mrinal Manohar, Casperlabs CEO

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrinal-manohar-84422a9/

https://casperlabs.io/

https://casperlabs.io/company/meet-our-team

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Casperlabs+CEO%2C+Mrinal+Manohar

 

Mrinal Manohar is co-founder and CEO of CasperLabs. Mrinal Manohar has an extensive career as both a computer programmer and a finance professional. Before founding Casper, Mrinal was a principal and the technology/media/telecom sector head at Sagard Capital, a ~$1b long-only hedge fund. Mrinal also previously served as a private equity associate at Bain Capital in Boston, and as an associate consultant at Bain & Company. Mrinal has been personally investing in the blockchain industry since 2012 as a seed investor in Ethereum, Blockstack, Basis, Maker, Filecoin, and more. Mrinal holds a Master of Science degree from Carnegie Mellon University.

 

Why Casper?

The Casper Network is the first live proof-of-stake blockchain built off the Casper CBC specification. Casper is designed to accelerate enterprise and developer adoption of blockchain technology today and evolve to meet user needs in the future.

 

Enterprises need to be blockchain ready in 2022. CasperLabs works with enterprises of all sizes to ensure they are ready to integrate a secure and trusted blockchain.

Blockchain technology is on the brink of its next breakthrough. But from the perspective of developers who actually decide if, when, and how to use a particular blockchain, the key features are missing in the industry, and that hinders enterprise adoption of blockchain technologies.  

 

Davos -May 23-25 World Economic Forum

There is a lot of thirsty talk about Metacask and its recent $2.3 million-dollar sale of a Macallan whiskey cask NFT. 

 

Blockchain Hub Davos will host several events over the three days as key stakeholders gather and discuss the latest trends in the Digital Asset Ecosystem, DeFi, Blockchain Enterprise Solutions and NFTs in media, art and sports. Panel discussions and networking will also take place daily. Guests will enjoy drinks and food throughout the day.

As part of the festivities, CasperLabs will also be conducting an auction of a premium single-malt whiskey cask. The winner will also receive a bottle of the rare whiskey with unique Casper branding. The auction comes following a successful partnership with MetaCask to build the world’s first digital marketplace for premium whiskey cask investment. A double-size cask of 1991 Macallan Single Malt Scotch was recently sold for a record $2.3M on the blockchain in the form of an non-fungible token (NFT).

 

Notes:

How Many Casper Coins (CSPR) Are There in Circulation? The initial circulating supply of CSPR breaks down as follows: 400M CSPR released from the freely traded tranche of Casper’s Public Sale on Coinlist. Approximately 183M CSPR provided as liquidity to exchanges

CTO - Medha Parikar

Mrinal background - Computer Science, worked on Wall Street, then Bain Capital in PE and M&A, Investing in crypto and Bitcoin since 2012, Early investor BC and ETH

 

Casper Labs, started in 2017 – idea, created by 4 people, then hired 10 developers

Self funded initially, then Raise funding

Full Deck, 2 months coding

 

Block chain – best form of copy protection

Digital assets copied easily

Best b/c distributed

Platform (shared) for collaboration

Transactions – finance

Sharding –spread out computational storage workload

Gas fees – energy use, ease of use

B2B adoption. Example: like HTML

Cross Chasm Analogy

Private block

Con – block chain will cost more because security/copy protection is better. No referee in system – faith in many economic incentives.

Hacks – fringe, external

Block chain – multiple watchmen

Example: 2008 financial crisis. In block chain, everyone would have seen

Block chain is technical, transparent – harder to hide.

Casper Labs built network more efficient – faster and easier.

Security to network

Proof of work – lots of energy, code and data, inefficient.  70% consensus

80/20 – proof of stack – opposite, more efficient

Create a block – transaction, 70% consensus to create block from network

Staking – like putting up a band and earn fees on it.

Cheaters (double spend) are punished.

Fees – in block chain expensive and inconsistent. Need to standardize and make predictable.

Coin base – fees to move money. 1-4% + fee to network (to minors) who supply hardware and secure network.

Fees in banking / trading used to be higher percentage to basis points now. Volume goes up,  price goes down.

Fees down, energy down over time with proof of stack.

ETH (for 5 years) shift to proof of stake from proof of work - different hardware

Casper wants mass insurance, finance, smart contracts.

AWS and AZURE – cloud, both big and small companies can use, can scale. Open permission-less product.

Block chain – language and coding, most people are unfamiliar. Documentation is bad.

Hard to test, most blockchain not enterprise ready.

Forward sustainability – cannot change past - ok.

Bug – future cannot be changed

Smart contract – automatic, but cannot update yet. Need to modify. Solve bug of future change for enterprise.

Asset class creation – new industry of block chain – need attorneys, banks, consultants, coders, security.

Smart contract – fractional ownership in real estates.

Casper Labs.io – Casper.network (Swiss) Twitter

Enterprise Partners – with big corporation

Davos 5/23-25. World Economic Forum education about Casper and block chain leaders of industry and leaders of government.

NFT – should be linked to actual and unique digital or  real (hard) asset with value .

Method copy protection, authentic certification. McCallum whisky cask NFT (200 liters = 300 bottles)

Napter / Metalica controversy of circa 2002 would not happen if had NFT. How many artists did not get paid for their work? No residual fees – now can have fee ongoing with NFT – 5%for ALL sales

Can be multi party – artist has say in sale

Interlectual Property

Change IP world

IP We –

Patent Marketplace – open and transparent. Know owners and license in easy manner.

License tech directly.

Art Forgers will be put out of business.

Block chain will be like the internet in the future – take 10 years.

Internet, websites, torrent, file share, java, flashplayer  - all complex in past – now streaming – Netflix, HTML, smart phone, YT.

Simplicity is one of the most complicated thing to do. Get quote.

Automate everything for user.

Crazy innovators – need to thank them.

BC – digital gold, hi tech store of value

BC and ETH are the block chain now but could be overtaken.

Energy and storage will improve – All of the above and renewables

Need more predictable energy –

Need block chain specific hardware

Google built their own machines to process.

Set of chips and hardware for specific hardware

Casper Labs.io – for developers section

Open source code and paper.

 

 

 

 

Crypto / Blockchain Topic:

https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Crypto-Bitcoin-Blockchain

 

Best of Blockchain / Crypto: Here

 

Tech Topic:

https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Tech-Startup-VC-Cybersecurity-Energy-Science

 

Investing Topic:

https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Investing-Stocks-Bonds-Retirement

 

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

 

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast. 

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

From Seed to Success in Cannabis Cultivation w/ Ryan Douglas

- BRT S03 EP19 (118) 5-8-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Cannabis Cultivation: ops setup, farm, greenhouse, or indoor facility, need a Master Grower
• Master Grower: an informal/unofficial certification or status within the legal cannabis industry. It is conferred by several different organizations both in classroom settings and online to prepare individuals to oversee all aspects of a marijuana growing enterprise
• Cannabis Startup: take 3 years ETA, funding of $2 to $10 million+
• Facility Setup: size of 10k to 20K square feet, land selection, use of space, climate control, lighting, tech monitor
• MITA-AZ, the Arizona Marijuana Industry Trade Association, the state’s first and largest industry trade association.

 

 

 

Guest: Ryan Douglas, Douglas Cultivation

https://douglascultivation.com/

https://douglascultivation.com/services

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ryan+douglas+cannabis

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandouglascultivation/

 

THE RYAN DOUGLAS DIFFERENCE Unprecedented Credentials in the Industry  

As Master Grower from 2013 to 2016, I directed cultivation for Tweed Inc., one of Canada’s largest producers of cannabis and the flagship subsidiary of Canopy Growth Corporation. As one of the company’s first employees, I helped drive the organization’s early success by designing the production facility, selecting the genetics, and hiring and training staff to produce 70,000 plants and process 6 tons of dry cannabis annually. 

 

My work at Tweed has been featured in Vice, New York Times, Bloomberg News, and on National Public Radio. 

 

Deep Roots in Horticulture - Before entering the cannabis industry, I spent 15 years as a commercial greenhouse grower of ornamental and edible crops. As Head Grower for a commercial greenhouse near Boston, I developed and executed a production plan for raising 600,000 plants annually.

 

These experiences, along with consulting projects across the globe, have provided me with a rich toolkit of best practices for helping clients launch and expand their commercial grow operations.

 

Book: From Seed to Success – How to launch a Great Cannabis Cultivation Business in Record Time

https://douglascultivation.com/seed-to-success

Launching a cannabis cultivation facility is no different than starting any other commercially produced agricultural crop, but the excitement and potential for big profits can lead to lapses in judgment that prove devastating for many start-ups.  An entrepreneur does not need to be an expert grower to launch a thriving cultivation business, and most problems can be avoided through the application of basic business principles and good management practices.

By utilizing the advice, checklists, and templates found within this book, cannabis entrepreneurs can skip the typical start-up mistakes and enjoy the shortest path from seed to success.

 

 

 

Notes:

 

Ryan Douglas – Cannabis Consultant

Ryan background - Master Grower with Tweed, Inc, Articles, interviews, speaking

A Master Grower is essentially an informal/unofficial certification or status within the legal cannabis industry. It is conferred by several different organizations both in classroom settings and online to prepare individuals to oversee all aspects of a marijuana growing enterprise.

Horticulture background pre-Cannabis, growing crops

Cultivation consultant – 4 years North America

Book – From Seed to Success – potential yield forecast pg 45. 20 K pounds/year

Land selection - Ch. 4 – location, discretion, security, distance.

Cannabis Industry – uses of Hemp

Starting a Cannabis business – mentality, 3 year time line

Startup Funding - $2 million seed. Money is recaptured. VC and expansion – where to get money - Benzinga Investor conference in FL to find funding

1. Existing business – advisor to optimize business
2. New companies – strategy, plan, setup.

Ryan consults on smaller projects – 6 months to 1 yr +

ETA – probably more like $10 – 20 million startup $, and retail, to create special extraction

Ryan works with start-ups at beginning. Plan fundraise, and strategy

Growing techniques – define a master grower – 5 harvests per year

Product quality and regulations – best way to grow. 100K square foot facility. Build and use of space, greenhouse or farm.

CBD – pass, grow hemp and high THC flower. Tech used – Genetics. Cultivation Team, Grower. Grow Pods. Cap ex – pg 35

Operations challenges – Business plan and licensing. Business risks pg 12. Single or double grows

Facility setup = greenhouses, vertical farming, hydroponics, lighting – grow lights, temp, humidity. Hybrid – conditions like AZ (warm)

Canopy Growth Canada

Cannabis Conference – MJ Business Con in NV (fall)

Facility example - 100K sq ft. is large, average 10K sq ft.                                                                                                        

5K half to plant products, other half, walkways, offices.

$400 sq ft to construct and equipment

ETA – 18 months for construct and retrofit harvest.

Research with legal and realtors for land zoning and location to city

States w/ Low taxes, but good commute (45 minutes) to facility, near a city

Climate – warm, CA, AZ, dry. Indoor facility control 100% - 68 degrees and 50% humidity.

Tech sensors and thermostats – CO2 sensor

HVAC units to cool room, de-humidification, water system – CO2 supplementation

Large facility – 2 work shifts, 8 hours each none at night

Indoor has more control, but takes more energy. Cannabis grows more indoors

Greenhouse – combo of indoor / outdoor techniques for growing

Harvest – growing 2-3 months, 3-4 times a year or 5-6 harvests are possible / year

Sweet spot – client has license, funding and facility

 

 

Connected at 3/30/2022 MITA AZ event - Hosted by Demitri Downing

Clip from: BRT S03 EP13 (112) 3-27-2022 –

Cannabis Supply Chain & License Structure in AZ w/ Demitri Downing of Marijuana Industry Trade Association (MITA AZ)

Full Show Link: HERE

 

Guests: Demitri Downing w/ MITA AZ

https://mita-az.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/demitri-downing-5250531/

Demitri Downing is a former prosecutor and industry registered lobbyist who is part of the original vanguard of Arizona medical marijuana industry leaders. Dedicated to building a vibrant and successful market, Downing has distinguished himself as a vested industry expert and influential trailblazer. With a strong understanding of both policy and operations on a local and international level, Downing was instrumental in drafting Prop 205, Arizona’s 2016 legalization bill and currently serves as an advisor to the 2020 Arizona recreational initiative committee.

In May of 2016, seeing the need for strong State level industry associations, Downing founded MITA-AZ, the Arizona Marijuana Industry Trade Association, the state’s first and largest industry trade association.

 

 

BRT Flashback Clip

BRT S02 EP 36 (83) 9-5-21

BRT Still Growing – Best of Cannabis 2021

Clips from BRT shows talking about the Cannabis Industry in 2021

BRT Revisits some Cannabis topics and shows from 2021, including farming, tower gardens, investing, Harvest Health, Copperstate Farms, AZ legalization, M&A, dispensaries, and more…

 

Full Show: Here

 

More on the topic of Cannabis Farming –

BRT S02 EP03 01-17-21 (50) Tower Farming and Cannabis Business

Guests: Troy Albright, Rph of True Garden (f 2013) & Rx Formulations

https://truegarden.com/

True Garden Tower Framing & greenhouses has a location in Mesa, AZ. They have local grown food distributed to local restaurants and markets. Troy's background is as a chemist and pharmacist who worked in alternative medicine previously.

Full Show: Here

 

 

BRT S02 EP15 (62) 04-11-2021 Cannabis Farming to the Flower Shop

Guest:  Ryan Hurley of Copperstate Farms

https://www.copperstatefarms.com/

https://thecannabisindustry.org/board-members/ryan-hurley/

 

Ryan Hurley is General Counsel at Copperstate Farms, the largest medical cannabis grower in the Southwest. Prior to joining Copperstate, Ryan was a partner at Rose Law Group, Rich, Hurley in Scottsdale, AZ where he led the firm’s Marijuana Practice Group. He has a background in land use and zoning law, environmental and water issues, renewable energy and a wide variety of regulatory compliance and administrative law issues. National Cannabis Industry Assoc., like the Chamber, in Colorado, and Ryan is on the board & a founding member in AZ.

 

Copperstate Farms is one of the largest greenhouse cannabis producers in North America, with over 1.7 million square feet of canopy and 40 acres under glass. We bring best practices from big agriculture, consumer packaged goods, and pharmaceutical industries to cannabis. We are building a culture where our employees view Copperstate Farms as one of the best places to work.

 

Full Show: Here

 

 

 

Cannabis Topic:

https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Cannabis-Hemp-Marijuana

 

Best of Cannabis: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/size/5/?search=best+of+cannabis

 

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

Investing Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Investing-Stocks-Bonds-Retirement

 

 

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

AZ Bio & Tech Incubators w/ Russ Yelton

- BRT S03 EP18 (117) 5-1-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Tech Incubator: startup incubator is a collaborative program for startup companies — usually physically located in one central workspace — designed to help startups in their infancy succeed by providing workspace, seed funding, mentoring and training.
• AZ State supporters of Tech: AZ Tech Council, The Flinn Foundation, NAU, ASU, UA, CEI Gateway Tech, AZ Bio, NACET – Moonshot, AZ Advances, & many funding VC & Angel groups – ATI, Desert Angels, Canyon Angels
• Biotech industry growing in AZ the past 2 decades in Flagstaff and Tucson
• Fail & Fail Fast – good rule for tech co’s and incubators - Need capital and investors to fund incubators at Universities, plus community (City) support
• AZ Bio – students talking research and tech, internships

 

 

 

Guest: Russ Yelton, Pres., Yelton & Associates

Immediate Past Chairman, AZBio Board of Directors

http://www.yeltonandassociates.com/

https://www.azbio.org/azbio-board-of-directors/russ-yelton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/russ-yelton-46a9412/

https://twitter.com/ryelton

 

Russ Yelton Bio:

Russ Yelton served as Chairman of the AZBio Board of  Directors from January 2015 to December 2017.  He has been an active board members since being elected in 2009.

He is currently president of Yelton and Associates.  The firm provides economic development services as well as early stage business solutions. Yelton and Associates has experience both domestically and internationally and has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs to raise funding and bring their products to a variety of markets. The firm  also has a long history of assisting municipalities with the development of co-work, incubators and accelerators as well as loan funds, student focused entrepreneurial programming as well as shared facilities.

As a Board Member at Pinnacle Transplant Technologies, Inc., Yelton provides executive level leadership to a rapidly expanding tissue bank and medical device company. Yelton served as Pinnacle Transplant’s CEO from 2014 to 2017. 

Pinnacle Transplant Technologies is a multi-service tissue bank dedicated to ethical participation in the donate life process. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) registered and American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) accredited, Pinnacle only works with federally chartered Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs) and agencies accredited by AATB to help safeguard our employees, provide superior allografts for transplantation and assure reverence to our donor families.

Prior to joining Pinnacle Transplant Technologies, Yelton was President and CEO of the Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology   located in Flagstaff.  NACET is a business incubation program that assists companies with commercializing their technologies in both domestic and international markets.  NACET is supported by the City of Flagstaff and Northern Arizona University where it functions as the Technology Transfer Office for NAU.  Clients in NACET’s program received individual business consulting, access to mentors, venture and angel capital and domestic and international student research teams.

Prior to coming to Arizona in 2009, Yelton oversaw the creation of a business incubation program in Asheville, North Carolina in an abandoned 141,000 sq feet former BASF manufacturing plant.  That program, located at a community college, included a commercial food kitchen, biotechnology space with wet, dry and core laboratories, light manufacturing and executive offices.

Yelton received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Appalachian State University, a Masters of Business Administration from Western Carolina University and Doctoral studies in Educational Leadership also at WCU.  In addition, he received a European Union Grant in 2008 to complete Evaluation of Sustainability Training from Vienna University of Economics and Business Administration.

 

AZBio:  Supporting Arizona’s Life Science Industry for 19 Years (2003 – 2022)

Learn more about Arizona's bioindustry: www.azbio.org

| Facebook: AZBIO |Twitter: @AZBio @AZBioCEO

We’re part of a movement to create sustainable funding for life science innovation in Arizona.

Learn more at www.AZAdvances.org 

MOVING LIFE SCIENCE INNOVATIONS ALONG THE PATH FROM DISCOVERY TO DEVELOPMENT TO DELIVERY OUR VISION OF THE FUTURE: Arizona is a top-ten life science state. OUR MISSION: AZBio supports the needs of Arizona’s growing life science ecosystem. Arizona’s bioscience industry is growing rapidly and reached nearly 30,000 jobs spanning 2,160 business establishments in 2018. Industry employment has grown by 15 percent since 2016—twice the growth rate of the nation—with each of the five major subsectors adding jobs during the period. Arizona’s universities conducted nearly $580 million in R&D activities in bioscience-related fields in 2018, fueled in part by steadily increasing NIH awards to Arizona institutions since 2016. Venture capital investments in Arizona bioscience companies increased in 2019, and during the 2016-19 period totaled $349 million. Arizona inventors have been awarded 2,178 bioscience-related patents since 2016, among the second quintile of states in patent activity.

 

Flinn Foundation

https://flinn.org/

https://flinn.org/about/general-information/board-of-directors/

The Flinn Foundation is a privately endowed, philanthropic grant-making organization established in 1965 by Dr. Robert S. and Irene P. Flinn. Its mission is to improve the quality of life in Arizona to benefit future generations. The Foundation aims to advance the state’s bioscience sector, provide a top-notch education to high-achieving students at an Arizona public university, boost the fiscal and creative capacity of the state’s arts and culture organizations, and develop future state-level civic leaders.

Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations to advance interests in the biosciences, Flinn Scholars, and arts and culture. In civic leadership, the Foundation supports and administers the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership and its Flinn-Brown Fellowship in partnership with the Thomas R. Brown Foundations of Tucson. These philanthropic activities intersect wherever possible, a recognition of the importance of ecosystem thinking.

The Foundation also leverages the additional capacities of a private foundation through its professional resources. These are exemplified by what’s informally known as the Flinn Foundation’s “5 C’s”—to convene interested parties, collaborate and generate partnerships among groups with mutual interests, catalyze solutions, communicate progress and outcomes, and consensus-build among stakeholders. The Foundation often convenes leaders in workshops and educational forums at the Flinn Foundation Conference Center within its office building in Phoenix.

 

 

Notes:

 

Russ has a tech background, from back east (North Carolina) – originally worked at NAU when he first got to AZ in 2009, working with tech incubators and bioscience

 

Russ is a consultant and board member, and involved in AZ Bio (since 2009), AZ Tech Council, Chair of The Flinn Foundation, Pinnacle Transplant Technologies, CEI Gateway Tech & more…

 

NACET – Moonshot – Russ there in 2009,  https://www.moonshotaz.com/

 

Investment by incubators, tech community, established business, university and cities in tech and small business

 

Biotech industry growing in AZ the past 2 decades in Flagstaff and Tucson

 

Pinnacle Transplant – https://www.pinnacletransplant.com/

Founded in 2010, Pinnacle Transplant Technologies recognized the need to establish a processing and distribution facility that would enable medical professionals to acquire safe quality allograft tissue for transplant. The company manufactures innovative allografts produced to the highest standards of quality and safety. With a dedication to customer service, we are devoted to being the most responsive and accommodating Tissue Bank in the industry.

 

Regan Med –

 

Life Science – Gore, founded in Flagstaff - https://www.goremedical.com/STEM-educational-programs

 

Medical device – drugs Tucson, AZ

 

What is a business incubator? A business incubator is a workspace created to offer startups and new ventures access to the resources they need, all under one roof.

 

A startup incubator is a collaborative program for startup companies — usually physically located in one central workspace — designed to help startups in their infancy succeed by providing workspace, seed funding, mentoring and training.

 

Startup incubators are usually nonprofit organizations, often associated with universities and business schools who extend invitations to students, alumni and members of the community to take advantage of the program. Some popular incubator programs include Y Combinator, TechStars and Excelerate Labs.

 

Fail and fail fast – good rule for tech co’s and incubators

 

Patents and IP plus legal battles

 

Need capital and investors to fund incubators at Universities

City and University – community, mentors group advisors, workforce

 

Tier 2 company- grow companies

Build $28K accelerator

 

Open Book Accounting – run like any business with expenses and revenue, looking to be a viable company developing products or be shut down

Build team – invest in teams

Board different at each funding stage: 2-3 years

3-5 years to get incubators

 

CEI – Gateway Community College

Incubator seed spot

UA – tech park

Mining –

 

Life Science and Bio Tech – FDA, regulations, legal

 

Jim Goulka – ATI and Desert Angels. Canyon Angels

ATI sidecar fund – White Hat Investor – Sept/Oct. Bio-science week.

 

AZ Bio – State Biotech Flagstaff, Tucson

Flinn Foundation – Bio Science road map

Dr. Flinn – philapothry and grant, scholarship

 

Policy -  R&D tax credit – Angel Investing Credit

35% tax credit for Life Science investment.

Low reg and low taxes in AZ, so tech industry has been growing with state help

Entrepreneurial eco system

Big University and community college (labtechs)

 

Collaborative gene –

Hill Labs board at ASU, help students in sciences and health types of tech

Taproots – company using AI treat Alzheimer’s

 

AZ Bio – students talking research and tech, internships

Edison Program ASU funds students

#1 reason startup leaves because of funding

AZ Advances – Evergreen Fund

 

Prep before you present

CEI will help prep

 

 

 

 

AZ Tech Council Shows: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/size/5/?search=az+tech+council

 

Tech Topic:

https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Tech-Startup-VC-Cybersecurity-Energy-Science

 

Best of Tech: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/size/5/?search=best+of+tech

 

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

Investing Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Investing-Stocks-Bonds-Retirement

 

 

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

Money for the Rest of Us w/ David Stein

- BRT S03 EP17 (116) 4-24-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Investment vs. Speculation vs. Gambling: You must understand the difference and recognize which camp the product you’re considering is in
• The three drivers of asset class performance: These all relate to cash and earnings,  cash flow, cash flow growth and change in valuation, and how each impacts the future price of an asset class
• The Efficient Market Hypothesis vs Adaptive Market Hypothesis: which combines behavioral finance w/ EMH
• Wayfinding: An alternative to traditional rebalancing of asset allocation - use current market conditions to help evaluate where you should increase / decrease your exposure, depending on how the asset is doing currently
• Modern Portfolio Theory vs. The Asset Garden Approach when adjusting asset allocation, focused on diversification between return drivers - Like landscaping, there are rules of thumb, but there’s freedom to create and build the portfolio. And it’s much easier to make changes.

 

 

 

Guest: David Stein, Money for the Rest of Us

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdstein/

https://moneyfortherestofus.com/

https://moneyfortherestofus.com/about/

Book: https://moneyfortherestofus.com/how-to-invest-book/

 

David Stein’s Bio:

David helps individuals become better and more confident investors through his writing, audio, and video. He hosts the personal finance podcast Money For the Rest of Us. The show reaches more than 40,000 listeners per episode and has over 10 million downloads. The podcast has received mention from The New York Times, Forbes, The Chicago Tribune, and the U.S. News and World Report.  David also provides investment insights and model portfolios to 1,000 members of the Money For the Rest of Us Plus community.  

David Stein author of Money for the Rest of Us 10 Questions to Master Successful Investing Prior to launching the podcast, David was Chief Investment Strategist and Chief Portfolio Strategist at Fund Evaluation Group, LLC, a $33 billion investment advisory firm. At FEG, David co-headed the 21-person research group. He co-founded the firm’s $2.2 billion asset management division where he developed its investment philosophy and process and was the lead portfolio manager. David’s former advisory clients include The Texas A&M University System, the University of Puget Sound, and the Sierra Club Foundation.  

David splits his time between Idaho, Arizona, and locations around the globe. In his free time, he loves to bike, fly fish, hike, read, and spend time with his family.

 

Money for the Rest of Us – 10 Questions to Master Successful Investing book was published in 2019 by McGraw-Hill and is available in hardcover and e-book formats as well as an audiobook.

Money For the Rest of Us Plus is the premier investment education platform (membership) that can teach you to manage your financial assets like a professional. Membership gives you access to step-by-step video lessons, spreadsheets, and written materials to guide you as you build a diversified portfolio plan and adapt it as market conditions change.Re

Guides & Resources – Investing, Rebalance / Asset Allocation, Tail Risk, Inflation, REITs, TIPs, Gold, Oil, Bonds, Farm Investing, Frontier Markets & more…

 

His podcast, Money for the Rest of Us is “about money, how it works, how to invest it and how to live without worrying about it.” - with the goal of “demystifying investing for nonprofessionals, so they can invest more confidently”. David’s resources, book, etc. is all for the do it yourself investor to provide info, advice and a community.

 

 

Notes:

 

David invests in ETF’s, REITs, MLPs, and other low cost funds mainly, with some other investments like Bonds, Bank Loans (variable rate bonds), Land, Gold (5%) or Crypto, he is not picking individual stocks though. Example: Vanguard VT total market fund.  

 

Money for the Rest of Us Book subtitle: 10 Questions to Master Successful Investing Everyone should ask as they think about various asset classes -  

1. What is it?
2. Is it investing, speculating, or gambling?
3. What is the upside?
4. What is the downside?
5. Who is on the other side of the trade?
6. What is the investment vehicle?
7. What does it take to be successful?
8. Who is getting a cut?
9. How does it impact your portfolio?
10. Should you invest?

 

Other Ideas from his book and writings:

Investment vs. Speculation vs. Gambling:  You must understand the difference and recognize which camp the product you’re considering is in

Investing consists of "opportunities that have a greater likelihood of being profitable."

Speculation consists of "opportunities where the investment outcome is highly uncertain," 

Gambling is something else altogether – "opportunities that have a greater likelihood of losing money."

The danger of using historical returns:  It’s the present and the future that matter, not the past, look at the possible future outlook for different asset classes

The three drivers of asset class performance:  These all relate to cash and earnings,  cash flow, cash flow growth and change in valuation, and how each impacts the future price of an asset class

Bond yields to maturity:  Understand bonds, the impact of maturity periods, and how to include potential default risk

A bond's yield to maturity (YTM) is the internal rate of return required for the present value of all the future cash flows of the bond (face value and coupon payments) to equal the current bond price. YTM assumes that all coupon payments are reinvested at a yield equal to the YTM and that the bond is held to maturity.

Maximum Drawdown Risk:  What is drawdown risk and the historical months to recover loses, and your exposure, how it impacts your investments in bad times

A maximum drawdown (MDD) is the maximum observed loss from a peak to a trough of a portfolio, before a new peak is attained. Maximum drawdown is an indicator of downside risk over a specified time period. Drawdowns present a significant risk to investors when considering the uptick in share price needed to overcome a drawdown.

The Efficient Market Hypothesis:  Per David it’s flawed, and prefers Adaptive Market Hypothesis, and how it differs from the efficient market hypothesis

The efficient market hypothesis (EMH), alternatively known as the efficient market theory, is a hypothesis that states that share prices reflect all information and consistent alpha generation is impossible.

According to the EMH, stocks always trade at their fair value on exchanges, making it impossible for investors to purchase undervalued stocks or sell stocks for inflated prices. Therefore, it should be impossible to outperform the overall market through expert stock selection or market timing, and the only way an investor can obtain higher returns is by purchasing riskier investments.

The adaptive market hypothesis (AMH) is an alternative economic theory that combines principles of the well-known and often controversial efficient market hypothesis (EMH) with behavioral finance. It was introduced to the world in 2004 by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor Andrew Lo.

Evaluating Investment Vehicles:  All investments analysis needs to include liquidity, costs, structure and pricing, David likes closed-end funds and ETF’s vs picking individual stocks  

Wayfinding:  An alternative to traditional rebalancing of asset allocation - use current market conditions to help evaluate where you should increase / decrease your exposure, depending on how the asset is doing currently

When we know exactly where we are going, having step-by-step directions to our destination can be extremely helpful. The only requirement is to follow the steps.

The American explorers Lewis and Clark were wayfinders. They didn’t have a map as they explored the western United States looking for the easiest route to the Pacific. When you are wayfinding, you need to be prepared for the unexpected.

Investors are wayfinders. They only have a general sense of what might happen. There are no guarantees we will reach our destination. We get in trouble as investors when we forget we are wayfinders and believe outcomes are certain. That if we just follow the correct formula, we will reach the wealth level we desire.

No precise location, no map, Lewis & Clark analogy, no one knows market direction, uncertain

 

Modern Portfolio Theory:  David does not believes this works, prefers “The Asset Garden Approach” when adjusting his asset allocation, focused on diversification between return drivers - Like landscaping, there are rules of thumb, but there’s freedom to create and build the portfolio. And it’s much easier to make changes.

The modern portfolio theory (MPT) is a practical method for selecting investments in order to maximize their overall returns within an acceptable level of risk. A key component of the MPT theory is diversification. Most investments are either high risk and high return or low risk and low return.

Dollar-Cost Averaging vs. Lump Sum Investing:  this delves into the psychological side of investing, and how to allocate money consistently to keep investing, David prefers lump sum investing, and argues dollar cost averaging underperforms over time

Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) is an investment strategy in which an investor divides up the total amount to be invested across periodic purchases of a target asset in an effort to reduce the impact of volatility on the overall purchase. The purchases occur regardless of the asset's price and at regular intervals.

 

Reversion to the Mean –

Momentum ETF & Growth

Emerging Market – lower P/E, higher dividend

P/E vs long term historical average

Case Shiller CAPE Ratio

Lower P/E = higher returns over 10 years

US Stocks are 60% of global stocks

Risk more important than volatility

Risk Tolerance & asset allocation depending on your age and investing time horizon

 

Investors David likes:

Howard Marks – Oaktree Capital, talking risk in his Memos & books

Book – Wisdom of Finance by Mihir Desai

Rob Arnott of Reasearch Affiliates, contrarian value investor

https://www.researchaffiliates.com/about-us/our-team/rob-arnott

 

 

*some info c/o of Investopedia

 

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

Investing Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Investing-Stocks-Bonds-Retirement

More 'Best of Investing': Here

 

 

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

Designing Tech Products w/ David Schie of Linear Dimensions

- BRT S03 EP16 (115) 4-17-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Linear Dimensions develops machine learning systems for the fast grow consumer wearables mkt
• Wearables & health industries growing to $130 by 2030 b/c of advances in AI, Cloud, Chips, AR, VR
• EEG – headsets and sensors, get feedback to brain
• Microchip, sensors – built by Linear ie: heart rate monitor, of small size
• Turnkey Develop – draw up plans, product definitions, prototype, testing, software, manufacturing and ship

 

 

 

Guest: David Schie, Founder / CEO of AI Storm

aistorm.ai / www.lineardimensions.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-schie-9b02784

 

David Schie is a tech industry veteran who runs two companies – AI Strom (started 2018), and Linear Dimensions (c 2011) with their HQ in Texas. Prior to staring Linear he worked as a VP at Semtech, and Micrel Semiconductor before that, and worked at Maxim Integrated Products.

Linear Dimensions develops machine learning systems for the fast growing consumer wearables market. Linear is focused on powering and interfacing sensors and microelectromechanical systems (MEMs) for use in industrial, communications, and biotechnology devices. Linear's innovations include flexible analog front ends (AFEs), mixed-signal integrated circuits including ARM based SoCs, and extraction and security algorithms & software.

Linear continues to define the future of the wearables industry, as presented by Linear CEO, David Schie in his keynote speech at CES 2014. Our collaborative industry partners such as BodyMedia/Jawbone, Orbital Research, Freescale Semiconductor, and others, bring next generation solutions to market.

Product examples include physiological and heart rate monitors, head worn wearable devices, ECG and EEG harnesses and bands, and other sensor based products. In addition to customers in consumer fitness tech and digital health, we also support developments for governmental agencies such as NASA, DMEA, Navy, AFRL, and the Air Force. Linear Dimensions is headquartered in Houston, TX.

 

Notes:

Founder/inventor – bring ideas and design to Linear

Microchip, sensors – built by Linear

Example: heart rate monitor, of small size

Develop, clinical trials, make products and ship.

Chip design

Turnkey develop – draw up plans, product definitions, prototype, testing, software, manufacturing and ship

Research what if questions, prototypes and test

Has backend delivery and manufacturing in Asia

Engineering only is not profitable

Some requests are difficult, if not possible

Example: glucose or alcohol measurements, heart wave form, blood monitoring, camera on glasses.

Startup raises money, kickstarter and go to Linear Dimensions to design and see if even possible.

Early design always has a budget

Repeat customers – Silicon Co

Big and small companies as clients

Linear has a lot of patents

Big companies can have multiple departments

Products –

Wearables with cameras and sensors

Optimal sensors, shoulder straps, car seats,medical devices, watches – sensors through light, can actually read blood and heart rate

Muscle and eye movements, can combine sensors

Measurements – of glucose, alcohol

Identify people through sensors. Can be in cars, cards.

Keychain data storage

Chips for all of these devices

Fit bit for dogs on harness

Camera with AI – face recognition, security

Security camera / sensors – can differentiate from animals and people.

Monitor people for health reasons, can monitor farms and food growth. Improve pollution, health, society IOT and sensor work will be involved in many things (already being used).

Healthcare – can monitor diseases early and catch more issues early. Non invasive monitoring (with AI) for more data. AI will look for anomalies with edge devices.

Earlier you detect a health issue, save money on health care

Need for more R&D and investment L/T to get prices down.

Glasses – AR / VR, wearable goggles are big now, but features will be added to current glasses

Example: glasses that read to you, monitor your eyes.

IOT devices in cameras, smart city monitors

Occupancy sensors and adjust thermostats

AI been added to cameras

Companies analyze data of how their products are being used.

Clothing form factor

Watches, jewelry, wrist bands

Car sensors – check if people are falling asleep with multiple cameras and sensors.

Edge computing and IOT data – trying to collect less data, just collect end data.

 

 

Link to David Schie’s 1st Guest spot on BRT 3/2021: HERE

 

 

Guest: Vardhman Sheth, Director of Design Engineering

Linear Dimensions

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vardhmansheth

 

Vardhman Sheth is the Director of Design Engineering at Linear Dimensions. Linear Dimensions is a product design company that develops custom and semi-custom system solutions for customers, including wearables, healthcare, industrial and medical products.   

Vardhman studied Electrical Engineering at the University of North Texas with a focus on Signal Processing and Control Systems. His initial projects included working at startups as an intern before joining Linear Dimensions. Vardhman’s expertise lies in Hardware Designing, Firmware and Algorithms Development. He has worked on several products currently in the market, either in their prototyping stage or being used in research and development. For his current role, he is involved in the design and management of the company’s various electronic products. In his free time, Vardhman likes to travel and play outdoor sports.

 

Notes:

Consumer design products

One stop shop – of customer IP client has an idea for a product. Example: create wearable headset health wear product or finger sensor, forehead chest strap. Specialty in hardware, AI.                                        AP company wants to create a product :

1. Design document and testing
2. Prototype
3. Manufacturing

ETA – could be 6 months to a year or more. Design can go fast  but testing can be open ended and take a year  - depends on how complex design is.

Works in a lab area at Linear Dimensions, then engineers build test prototype hardware boards, then outsource to China factory, then ship back.

No carpet in lab, disturbs electronics. Some chips no short circuit protection, plus grounding precautions – no static.

Wearable and health industries growing to $130 bill industry by 2030 because advancement in AI, Cloud, Chips, AR, VR

Bio signals from pets – with harness and electronics

GPS tracking industry part of more products. People want more info (data) with their health and body, when to hydrate and drink water , reduce stress, feedback

ECG – Electro Cardiogram, body readings.

EEG – headsets and sensors, get feedback to brain. Wearables will be common in everyday use , in health offices  and telemedicine – virtual appointments and telemedicine.

Health monitors, band for wrist. Future patches will give signals to medical providers.

VR – headset, manage body better with headset, not get nauseous, monitor health of a gamer. Bio - feedback.

 

 

 

 

Tech Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Tech-Startup-VC-Cybersecurity-Energy-Science

 

Best of Tech: HERE

 

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

 

 

Buying a Business Requires Due Diligence w/ Elliot Holland

- BRT S03 EP15 (114) 4-10-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• When Buying a Business – Need Inspection (called due diligence) of the financials to determine what you are buying
• Quality of Earnings – financial audit of income statements, bank statements, taxes & cash flow 
• Business Valuation is typically 3 – 4x Cash Flow / Profit
• 3 Outcomes Post Audit of financials: accurate – yes; middle – off 10-15%; fraud – no
• Startup Model (new biz) vs. Acquiring an Established Business or a Business Model (Franchise)

 

 

 

Guests: Elliot Holland of Guardian Due Diligence

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliottholland/

https://www.guardianduediligence.com/

Elliott Holland is a Harvard MBA alum and founder of Guardian Due Diligence, which specializes in helping everyday people acquire businesses as investments to optimize ROI and create new millionaires. He can walk your audience through the business buying process, how to approach due diligence, how long it really takes, what’s involved, and how it’s different than the DD process you might be used to in other asset classes or investment types (see more in attached one page overview). He stops his clients from buying bad businesses and expedites his clients' process to buy great businesses. These are million-dollar investments often backed by personal guarantees - so it hugely matters that people get it right. 

 

Notes:

Elliot – has an MBA and background in corporate world, worked in private equity for 8 years working business deals, then started Guard Due Diligence to consult

Elliot compares himself to a Home Inspector except for business buyers

He reviews financials to determine Quality of earnings, a financial audit, review P&l, balance sheet, cash flow, bank statements, Quickbooks financials, taxes

Process assumption is to not trust anything Business Seller gives you

Due Diligence Process ETA – 6 weeks, get and review all docs, then deliver a report for the buyer to review with 50 – 200 items on a list and a summary

3 Outcomes Post Review of Due Diligence:

Good: financials are accurate – rec of yes to buyer

Middle: financials off 10-15%, rec to buyer to negotiate the price or terms

Bad: Financials have bug issues, business may be a fraud – rec of no to buyer

 

Example of Sale Price - $2 million purchase w/ cash flow of $500 K, paying 4x CF (or 3 – 4x profit), make your money $ back in 4 years 

Average Business Sale is $5 million in revenue w/ 5-30 employees in biz

Private Equity sale could be $50 - $100 million w/ thousands of employees in biz

 

Elliot works with past Executives (or Entrepreneur) looking to buy a cash flowing business, usually in late 30s or 40s (age)  

SBA Loan example – put down 20 % or $200K on a $2 mil purchase, then a loan of  $1.8 mil  w/ a Personal Guaranty

 

Broke line vs. bad business ?

Negotiation - M&A type advising,  if profit sales #’s are less than shown in financials, then negotiate the price down (15%) or a seller note of 3-5 years, and Keep owner 1 yr vs. 3 months.

Business Owner who is selling probably leaves after 3 months. GM & other staff likely stay.

Max ROI – if buyer belives there is potential in the business to grow, may pay more for the business and keep owner for 2 years in advisory role.

Guardian Due Diligence has a Sample Report of process to download at their website

Other website - https://www.offerfromelliott.com/

 

3 Things to Consider before you go to Buy a Business:

How much can you buy (afford) ?

What Industries and actual Location (City or State) interest you?

Are You Prepared for a Life Change?

 

 

Guest: Denver Nowicz, President - Wealth For Life http://wealthforlife.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/denvernowicz

https://twitter.com/denvernowicz

 

Denver is an advisor with nearly 20 years experience working with clients in investments and insurance, designing retirement plans with a combo of both. He takes us through different strategies for clients to get the best allocations for their money over the long term. It is the Combo Strategy of both Offense and Defense, the synergy of the mix, not ‘All or Nothing’.

 

Notes:

Acquire Assets and work to create income streams (passive if possible)

Taxes – largest expense for most professionals, what is your tax plan?

Investing analysis, consider time lines, fees and taxes

Executive leaves corporate world & decides to buy a business, first have a financial cushion, have monthly expenses covered, means less stress  

Determine what is the monthly burn rate for money – ie monthly expenses, new business owners will have both personal and business expenses during business ramp up

Passive vs. Active management for investments – passive is somewhat of a myth

Tax team and advice, be protective with tax setup

Corporate setup  - S Corp or C Corp

S Corp = pass through earnings to business owner

C Corp = business tax rate of 21% on earnings

Write offs and depreciation of equipment

Expansion plan and cash flow

File self employed vs. S Corp., good to file as C Corp if larger sized company, $1 million or more

Financing options – for established business or business model (franchise) is easier as you have cash flow from the business vs. startup with no revenue (need personal assets)

If business has revenue / cash flow – banks will accept

Build asset classes with income

rental income with real estate

stocks that appreciate, also can invest in stocks that pay dividends

Passive investing – Less connection and distance to a deal, less risk and less work, but also less return.

When you receive lump sum money or sell real estate or business – break up tax burden by setting up a trust first.

Deferred sales trust – sell through a trust and pay taxes over a 10 year period

Loans and lines of credit on assets like stocks or real estate

Loans not reported as income and loan interest rate is lower than tax rate.

Set up in 3 tax buckets – 1. Taxed (income)  2. Tax deferred (401K)  3. Tax free

Use each bucket as needed. Learn the tax offset strategies and put yourself in tax free position.

Real estate write offs and depreciation to save tax – check rules.

Can refinance and pull money out of a property – not taxed.

Check with professionals, CPA’s and attorney before doing any of this.

 

 

 

BRT Clip from Seg. 2 of 12/5/2021

Guest: Jon Ostenson, w/ Franbridge Consulting

https://franbridgeconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonostenson

Jon Ostensen discusses the Franchise industry on multiple levels; from being a broker, to purchasing a franchise, to investing and also the operation side of running your own. He gives numerous examples of opportunities in franchising - How much does it cost, the buy in process, and realizing franchises are more than just food opps.

Jon is a consultant, owner/investor, author (The Franchise Path), and international speaker specializing in the area of non-food franchising. He serves as CEO of FranBridge Consulting where he helps clients in the process of introducing them to opportunities from the over 300 high growth brands that he represents. Additionally, Jon oversees FranBridge Capital where he and his partners own 18 territories across 5 property service franchises.

 

Full Show: Here

 

 

Business Buying Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Private+Equity-Valuation-MandA-Franchise-Business+Broker

 

Investing Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Investing-Stocks-Bonds-Retirement

 

Link to Taxes Show on 10/31/2021 w/ Denver: Here

Link to Offense / Defense Show on 6/6/2021 w/ Denver: Here

Link to Shows, Denver was a Guest: Here

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

Options vs Stocks & Trading vs Investing w Tom Sosnoff of tastytrade

- BRT S03 EP14 (113) 4-3-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Implied Volatility & Time Decay – options begins with volatility, on a clock so Mechanics (forget mind set) on how to setup a trade is key
• tastytrade is a media network based on Math (Probability & Statistics - Look at the Math), trading & focus on markets 
• Limited Profitability & Unlimited Risk when you Sell Puts w/ 80% chance of success - Be a Seller of Options – let Market beat you, slight edge
• Trade Small, Trade Often - Law of Large Numbers w/ 45 DTE Strike Price of 1 SD – Exit or Roll at 21 DTE
• Options Trading Teaches Life Lessons – Important to: take risks, learn to take risks, make quick decisions, be decisive about those decisions.

 

 

Guests: Tom Sosnoff of tastytrade

https://www.tastytrade.com/

https://twitter.com/tastytrade

 

Tom Sosnoff, founder and co-CEO of tastytrade

Tom Sosnoff is an online brokerage innovator and financial educator. Tom is a serial entrepreneur who co-founded thinkorswim in 1999, tastytrade in 2011, tastyworks in 2017, helped to launch the award- winning Luckbox Magazine in 2019, and in 2020 he created the first new futures exchange in 20 years, The Small Exchange. Leveraging over 20 years of experience as a CBOE market maker, Tom is driven by the passion to educate self-directed investors. A true visionary, after his years on the floor he saw the need to build and design superior software platforms and brokerage firms that specialized in complex financial strategies. His efforts ultimately changed the way options and futures are traded and how digital financial media is produced and consumed. Currently, Tom hosts tastytrade LIVE and continues to drive innovation and know-how for the do-it-yourself investor.

Tom has been named to Techweek’s Tech 100 list, Crain’s Chicago’s Tech 50, and has spoken at over 500 events across the globe. Tom received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award and was been featured by prominent publications such as WSJ, IBD, Chicago Tribune, Crain’s Chicago, Traders Magazine, and Barron’s.

 

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About tastytrade, Inc.

tastytrade is one of the most-watched online financial networks, engaging investors and traders across 165 countries with daily, live, cost-free and commercial-free programming with over 100 million hours viewed. tastytrade offers over 50 original segments for all levels of traders. tastytrade’s data-driven research-based content teaches a logical, mechanical approach to investing and identifying opportunities based on probability and volatility. Investors are continually challenged with financial math, humor, and new market perspectives.

tastytrade and its companies focus on empowering the individual investor through content, technology, and know-how.

tastytrade is the parent company to several innovative financial companies.

tastyworks, a brokerage firm creating and leading a financial revolution for the do-it-yourself investor

 

 

 

Notes:

 

Bio – options trading in 1980s, CBOE market maker, then built 2 co’s

tastytrade & tastyworks (broker platform), history c 2011 – media platform sold 2021, $1 billion bought by IG Group 2021, Tom stayed on, runs tastytrade.

TD Ameritrade, and 2012 purchase of Think or Swim (was IPO, public)

Partners – Tony Battista, Kristi Ross, Scott Sheridan

Think or Swim – started in 2001 w/ 7 people and 5 still with Tom.

10 years, went public, purchased by TD in 2009, $1 billion stayed 2 years, then started tastytrade with TD CEO as investor.

Think or Swim – learned as they went, education, content.

Finance is missing good content, does not understand financial media and technical analysis.

 

Efficient Market Theorist & efficient market pricing

Media Network all math – quantitative and statistical logic.

tastytrade 10 hours a day – live content.

Focus on markets, math related and trading. Morning radio show about people working tp make money, having fun,  talks trading and Financial Mechanics

Tony Battista, Tom Preston, are some of the 30 personalities total on-air.

Talking math a lot, but Tom just ok at math.

Jacob Perlman – math genius, Phd. tastytrade research team

Audience is smart, challenge them don’t dumb it down.

Capital Efficiency - Derivative (Options) Markets very efficient.

Buffet Options Strategy – selling Puts, profit of $ billions, rarely discussed

 

Markets are 50/50, generally.

S/T markets are emotional, can be over bought or oversold, but Tom trusts prices over L/T. No one knows direction of market and where price is going on stocks and market direction , 50/50 is a guess. Market is random with side of emotion, not a perfect distribution curve.

Positive drift in market, market goes up over Long Term L/T

More deviations vs. a model.

Does not believe in traditional investor education

Empower power with lots of info, not teaching people

Content marketing in house, media to masses

Stocks can go down, have to experience it

Fear size (of a trade) - one thing Tom fears is size, bet big and wrong, large failure

When Genius Failed (a book) - trades too big (leverage), collapsed the company

 

Law of large numbers – do something enough times, end up with expectation.

Trade a lot with 70 - 80% probability outcome.

Learn options by doing options

Casino games have negative edge – can’t win, can never get ahead. Just for fun.

Options trading teaches life lessons – Important to: take risks, learn to take risks, make quick decisions, be decisive about those decisions.

Take risks to do something special

Brain processing, faster than competition

Working hard not enough

Make a lot of decisions, learn to take risk and increase brain processing speed.

Manage risk in life, finance and work probabilities, hard to predict things

 

Day 1 in Options – Mechanics most important thing to understand

Mindset is BS, no emotional side to trading, no mindset to math.

Mindset just a sales tool, that Financial world sells.

Mechanics has strategy within it. Cannot manage positions or risk post trade.

Need mechanics to set up trade right.

Traders could be nice or mean, but all good ones make fast decisions before you even heard question.

Trade plan – if goes this way, I will do this.

Options – learn by doing; learn mechanics by doing a little at a time.

Volatility – majority starts and ends with volatility with few exceptions.

Implied volatility & Time Decay – always on a clock, option will expire

Stock Trader - out wait your enemy, patience. Trader plays short volatility game.

Enter trade – implied volatility rank is high

Trade favorable, expected volatility move is high.

Rank relative to itself, it’s inflated and has potential to contract.

Volatility is a math equation and will mean revert.

Price is not a math equation, does not need to revert to some number or average.

 

Tom would rather be a seller of options vs a seller, small advantage, likelihood of contraction after expansion.

Fear has expanded, better chance to contract vs expand more.

Analogy: own stock, own the asset. Sell options, collecting income (rent) on the assets. Sell covered calls, or out of the money put.

Put – limited upside, unlimited downside, but 70% chance of profit.

Put up $200 for $100 profit with 70% chance

Put up $1000 for unlimited profit with 50/50 chance

Have a choice – think through probabilities and bank roll.

No math equation can tell you the right answers for sure.

Tom back tests – selling out of money puts of S&P index out performs buying index with dividends, Use less capital, lower volatility in your P&L, make more money.

More conservative strategy

 

Trade more, and small with higher percentage of success.

45 day position – DTE Days to Expiration. 21 day DTE is exit day per Tom, exit early after 24 days.

Adjust, roll or close position. Increase probability to be profitable. Reduce outlier risk almost to 0.

tastytrade spent millions on research

Manage trades and exit early is mechanics, can always exit at 21 DTE

45 day position, 24 days in (21 DTE), make a decision – adjust, roll, close, extend contract (add duration) –roll

Start new position 45DTE, buy more time at 21 DTE, move it no matter what work to be close to 50% at 21 DTE

Casino Analogy – bet $100, won $50, take money and end bet.

tastytrade content goal is: create methodology and strategies to have positive environment for self directed investor, requires time and resources.

Learning curve faster now, can learn in a few months or a few years.

6-10 strategies Tom likes, short strangle – simultaneous sale of a call and a put.

No tech analysis or charts, just watch screen.

 

Price Action  / Liquidity – trading hundreds of millions per day.

Very liquid assets, very liquid underlyings (ir – Apple, Tesla, Indexes) does not trade non-liquid (microcap)

Tom could do 60 trades a day (had 14K trades in 2021) On day of interview, did 110 trades. Self described “Trading Junkie”

Account size in tastytrade - $25K average . Reserves – 50%, $12.5K in reserve.

1-3% of account size on a particular trade ($250 per trade), 5% on high and 1/5 size of a stock. Tom does not believe in option levels of industry.

No noise, no CNBC or Bloomberg news. No (zero) belief in newsletters or trading bots, trading education is over rated. All tastytrade content is free, videos, newsletter, etc.

Trade fees are low, $1 per, Tom does factor fees or taxes.

Most options income is ordinary income - 1256 B tax – max of 25%. L/T 40%, S/T 60%

Stocks are usually capital gains (20%) in taxes

 

Trades – 80% of business in under-lyings (standard big stocks / indexs)

1 STD – 16% of getting to that level, 2 STD -  5%, 3 STD – 1%

1 STD is Delta, Tom likes 16 – 22%

Greeks – know Delta & Theta (can also learn Gamma, Vega)

Directional Risk – rate of decline or time decay – Theta

Change in price of option vs. stock – Delta, premium making or losing daily.

Per Tom – need to trade more. Trade small, trade often. Counter thinking to stock trading of buy & hold. Per Tom, stock trader can evolve to an options trader with 1 downturn in market.

 

Buy & Hold stock investor (passive) is a ‘knuckle dragger’, does not have the  appreciation for capital efficiency - Stock investor ‘just hasn’t evolved yet’ – gotten to next level.

Casino Games analogy – enter a casino, we have all these games, but you can just play the slots (buy stocks)

Grow and realize capital efficiency of options indifferent to products and strategy.

Tom owns stocks but trades options, crypto, stocks

Facilitate opportunity. No limits, no fences.

House Analogy - big meter in front of house, with home price & appreciation shown daily on the side of the house, no one would own a home.

We don’t teach our kids to be passive, follow crowd and not think – don’t be passive with your money.

Financial service firms and media convinced masses ‘buy & hold’ and we’ll handle the rest - Don’t be ‘only passive’

Future of investing is more than check a few boxes.

Differences in asset classes

 

Final takeaway – life is short and goes by fast. Get comfortable taking risks and experiencing risks. Good Luck to Tom with his 500 trades this week.

 

 

 

Investing Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Investing-Stocks-Bonds-Retirement

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

Cannabis Supply Chain & License Structure in AZ w/ Demitri Downing of Marijuana Industry Trade Association

- BRT S03 EP13 (112) 3-27-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Need for Strong State Level Associations in Cannabis industry
• AZ Cannabis License Structure of vertical integration should be broken up
• Recreational Medicinal should be open to more people & medicinal should not be taxed
• Special Committee is needed to analyze industry – use, marketing, regulations, laws, etc. – Alcohol Prohibition Model is out dated concept
• Supply Chain Issues – AZ long term could be a Cannabis exporter nationally & then internationally

 

 

Guests: Demitri Downing w/ MITA AZ

https://mita-az.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/demitri-downing-5250531/

 

Demitri Downing is a former prosecutor and industry registered lobbyist who is part of the original vanguard of Arizona medical marijuana industry leaders. Dedicated to building a vibrant and successful market, Downing has distinguished himself as a vested industry expert and influential trailblazer. With a strong understanding of both policy and operations on a local and international level, Downing was instrumental in drafting Prop 205, Arizona’s 2016 legalization bill and currently serves as an advisor to the 2020 Arizona recreational initiative committee.

 

In May of 2016, seeing the need for strong State level industry associations, Downing founded MITA-AZ, the Arizona Marijuana Industry Trade Association, the state’s first and largest industry trade association. He is also the co-founder of the Southwest Cannabis Conference and Expo, which hosted shows in Phoenix, San Diego, Dallas, and Miami. In addition, he has collaborated with other industry innovators to foster inclusivity and cultural and ethnic diversity in the cannabis space. As part Native American and Mexican, Downing is the founding member of the National Indian Cannabis Coalition (NICC), an organization focused on guiding native communities into emerging cannabis market opportunities and founding member of the Mexican Cannabis Business Alliance. Downing is also the co-founder of AMMA PAC, a patient’s first organization in Arizona, and co-founder of digital publication Arizona Cannabis Monthly.

 

 

Notes:

Demitri Downing – is an AZ native, U of A grad who worked as a prosecutor from 1998 – 2010 prosecutor

Has Relatives working in business and politics

Demitri got involved in the Cannabis industry in 2012, & MITA-AZ was started in 2016 as a Cannabis and Marijuana Networking Association

Nov. 2010  - AZ medicinal use, Aug. 2012 -  first licenses to start

Nov. 2016 – bill failed for recreational use for adults consumer use

Nov 2020 – legalized starting January 2021 for adult consumer use.

Therapeutic cannabis use – per Demitri it’s all ‘adult use’, whether medicinal (30%) or recreational (70%)

Recreational medicinal should be open to more people + medicinal should not be taxed.

Cannabis Laws & Regs are different per state, states are silos vs common laws

Recs Special committee to analyze industry – use, marketing, regulations, laws

Demitri believes Marijuana industry is about Choice & Personal Freedom – right to drink alcohol, or coffee, smoke cigarettes and now cannabis

Industry distribution has changed, Cartel and ‘the dealer’ at schools are gone now

Supply chain is business industry

Licensing system is done vertically in AZ – grow, cultivate, dispense

Should be split up – dispensing, retail, farming and cultivation, manufacturing

Prohibition concept (see Alcohol model) of Cannabis rules is outdated.

Limited licensing currently – 1 license tied to every 10 pharmacies

Demitri wants AZ to be exporter nationally and then internationally.

Inter-state Model – current vs Intra-state Model - future

Other states have different models – likes Oklahoma  - different licenses, not vertical.

Q’s why even have a distribution license i.e. – why can’t cannabis be sold in other places like a bar and why not have more manufacturers?

Get more licenses – merit based, specialized, limited, cost now is $20 million to buy license. Kick out wrong people and give more people opportunities – open access and open door, but limited.

Mint – example of a AZ based group 

Rules of marketing and advertising –

Tax Issues with Federal 280 E reg, not legal, move to tax of 25% max

Free market economics& Supply chain economics

March 30, 2022 – MITA AZ has event, AZ Cannabis Week, business & networking

https://mita-az.org/events/

 

 

 

BRT Clip from 11/28/2021

BRT - Best of Women in Cannabis 2021

 

Guest: Melissa Diaz w/ Rebel Rock - customized accounting solutions, HR, and M&A for the Cannabis industry in AZ https://rebelrock.co/melissa-diaz/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-k-diaz-cpa-10215623/

 

Melissa Diaz returns to BRT to talk about the Cannabis business one year removed from recreational legalization (11/2020). She covers topics on licenses, M&A moves and consolidation, sales growth, current regulations and legal challenges. She is so well connected in the Phoenix market and nationally that the insights are of the moment and from the ground.

Melissa Diaz is one of the leading women voices in the Phoenix Cannabis industry. The Cannabis industry is so new, that pre-conceived business notions that usually favor men have not really taken a foothold. There are numerous dispensary and Cannabis support type business started and run by women in the last 5 years. Not only are there capitalism and growth opportunities, but also gender ones in this business. 

Full Show: HERE

 

 

 

Cannabis Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Cannabis-Hemp-Marijuana

 

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

 

 

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast.

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

Semiconductors & Cars w/ Rohan of On Semi

- BRT S03 EP12 (111) 3-20-2022

 

Things We Learned This Week

• Onsemi & Fresscale were a spinoff of Motorola, IPO in 2000

• Onsemi makes tech for cars, power steering and AI sensors, plus more

• Many Tech and Car Co’s in Phoenix area: Rivian, Lucid, Atlis, Nicola, Intel, Onsemi, Microchip
• AZ State has advantages that recruit these Tech Co’s - weather, government subsidies, low regs, no natural disasters, no disruption to supply chain
• Chip Supply Chain issues – dates back pre-pandemic, circa 2019, did not keep up with demand, especially cars

 

 

 

Guests: Rohan Raghunathan –  Product Line Mgr – On Semi

https://www.onsemi.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohan-raghunathan-1542a94

 

Rohan graduated from ASU with a degree in Electrical Engineering, and also attended Cornell Univ for his MBA. Prior to working at On Semi in 2019, he was at Pwc as a Management Consultant in tech, and a Product Engineer at Microchip. He also had his own startup called Bioscope.  

 

Onsemi:

Through both acquisition and robust internal development, onsemi has achieved leadership positions in several markets and technologies that fuel its growth, including automotive, industrial, and cloud power. In 2021, to better reflect its broad technology portfolio, differentiated product lines, and market leadership, ON Semiconductor rebranded itself as onsemi.

Though there is a new look and feel, the company’s roots are foundational. In 1999, Motorola spun off its standard products semiconductor business into an independent company called ON Semiconductor. Motorola had been a pioneer in transistors, especially for commercial applications. In fact, a Motorola transponder relayed the first words from the moon to Earth in July 1969. Motorola also pioneered the automotive electronics industry, from the first mobile radios in police cars in the 1940s to automotive electric controls and semiconductors in the 1970s.

However, Motorola wasn’t the only industry pioneer to provide the foundation for the modern-day onsemi. In 2016, onsemi acquired Fairchild Semiconductor to become a top semiconductor manufacturer. Fairchild was founded in 1957 to build transistors out of silicon rather than the more common germanium. It also pioneered the planar process, making transistors more easily, at a lower cost, and with higher performance and reliability. This planar process led Fairchild to develop the first commercially viable integrated circuit in 1960, which became the foundation for many of the innovations we enjoy today.

 

 

Notes:

On Semi – Phx, AZ – spinoff of Motorolla in 1999, and had the IPO in 2000

Motorolla spun off to On Semi and Freescale in 1999

Microchip founded in 1989 in Chandler, AZ, and had their IPO in 1993

Many tech and car co’s in Phoenix area: Rivian, Lucid, Atlas, Nicola, Intel, On, Microchip

Microchip – work with infrastructure, industrial, cars

On Semi – sensors, eyes on trade

Power 0 semi – on board charger lighting, power steering

 

Nvidia & Mobile Eye might make processor for brain, with other parts by SD Micro, & Texas Instruments

Could be hundreds or thousands of chips in new car development

Hybrids or EV Vehicle Level Z + of chips – Autonomous/AI car

Future – more semis in cars, AI in trucks

Many AI Car Co’s operate in AZ: Cruise, TuSimple, Waymo, Tesla, Uber

 

Many Semiconductor (microchip) Co’s in AZ: Intel, Microchip, TSMC – Taiwan Semi

Next evolution is 5 Nanometer – AI /autonomous Data Center

EV Car Co’s in AZ: Lucid, Rivian, Atlis Motors, Nicola

 

AZ State has advantages that recruit these Tech Co’s - weather, government subsidies, low regs, no natural disasters, no disruption to supply chain, I-10 and big freeways, easier with transportation

AZ tech and industry really grew during WWII, connection with security, move major industries  inland from the coast and potential attack. More major tech establishing hubs in AZ

 

Big Tech Co’s like Google, Amazon, FB developing their own ASICs (in house components)

Application specific- customized chips w/ fast processing & lower costs.

Business model – IDM Integrated Device Manufacturer like a One stop shop

Then TSMC came along in the 1990’s, changed process, Cost effective

 

Moore’s Law – tech gets faster and cheaper with better processing power over time, every 2 years, upgrade, and size becomes smaller – ie: I-Phone better than a computer in 1980’s

AZ also big in defense industry Co’s: Raytheon, Lockheed, or adjacent like Honeywell

 

Semi are everywhere – every company is a tech co in some way now

Semi/Microchips – cars, phones, fridge, kitchen, i-pad, TV, smart TV, interactive advertising, AI

Mosfet – entertainment, traction, steering onboard applications

OEM – Ford, GM, Tesla - Electrification of the car, regulations to reduce CO2

Make car lighter – electronic parts

 

AI – autonomous

Improve steering and inner mechanics

SmartCar – more sensors, improve safety. More chips. Could lower insurance. Change whole transportation industry. Car drives you.

 

Fabrication facility – very clean and sterilized.

Make a chip wafer design – then cut into smaller chips, ‘dice’.

Chip Supply Chain issues – dates back pre-pandemic, circa 2019

Different semi- or microchips, size going to 7 nanometer – size of chips and capacity.

Some chips do not have to be as good range .25 micron to nanometer size could be 100x difference.

Investments in new tech, and R&D  

 

China Trade War had impact – 2018

Semi industry did not keep up with demand, especially cars. Demand shifter to computers and data centers/servers.

Demand for cars returned 2021 and lack of supply last into 2023, cyclical of supply/demand. 5G, AI and infrastructure, capacity improving – doubled in 2 years.

 

 

BRT Clip from 3/1/2021

Tech Biz from New Tech of AI Sensors to How to Value a Tech Co

Guests: David Schie, Founder / CEO of AI Storm

aistorm.ai / www.lineardimensions.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-schie-9b02784

 

AI Storm is a AI company that makes the sensor tech used in common products for security cameras, traffic devices, and vehicles (cars). AI (Artificial Intelligence) common uses in everyday services that people are unaware of, and how the technology works. We also ponder the future uses of AI technology and how many industries it will be a part of in the next decade.

Full Show: HERE

 

BRT Clip from 1/31/2021

Vehicle 2.0 - Tech Meets Transportation w/ Atlis Motors & TuSimple

Guests: Mark Hanchett CEO & Founder of Atlis Motor Vehicles

https://www.atlismotorvehicles.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hanchett-amv

Mark Hanchett, CEO and Founder – started 2016, tech background, worked at Axon (Taser)

Per Mark - I believe that to change the world we need to build it ourselves. We cannot wait for the government to force it, and we cannot wait for big corporations to innovate. To make this world better, we need to develop the products, technologies, and solutions that make the current standard obsolete. I believe dedication to this is what makes great products and great people.

Full Show: HERE

 

 

Robert Brown - Senior Director of External Affairs at TuSimplehttps://www.tusimple.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-brown-797085150/

TuSimple is an autonomous (driverless) truck company using AI software to control the truck with a driver riding in the cab. They are operational on a test basis from Az to Texas, and expect to be live in 2024. Robert talks about the technology of the AI trucks, safety protocol, and the process to get Gov’t agreement. Then he tells of the future of the truck market, truck driver employment.

Full Show: HERE

 

 

Tech Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Tech-Startup-VC-Cybersecurity-Energy-Science

 

More 'Best of Tech': Here

‘Best Of’ Topic: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/category/Best+of+BRT

 

Thanks for Listening.

Please Subscribe to the BRT Podcast. 

 

 

Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

The show where Entrepreneurs, High Level Executives, Business Owners, and Investors come to share insight and ideas about the future of business. BRT 2.0 looks at the new trends in business, and how classic industries are evolving. 

Common Topics Discussed: Business, Entrepreneurship, Investing, Stocks, Cannabis, Tech, Blockchain / Crypto, Real Estate, Legal, Sales, Charity, and more… 

BRT Podcast Home Page: https://brt-show.libsyn.com/

‘Best Of’ BRT Podcast: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Google: Click Here

BRT Podcast on Spotify: Click Here                   

More Info: https://www.economicknight.com/podcast-brt-home/

KFNX Info: https://1100kfnx.com/weekend-featured-shows/

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the Hosts, Guests and Speakers, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent (or affiliates, members, managers, employees or partners), or any Station, Podcast Platform, Website or Social Media that this show may air on. All information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes. Nothing said on this program should be considered advice or recommendations in: business, legal, real estate, crypto, tax accounting, investment, etc. Always seek the advice of a professional in all business ventures, including but not limited to: investments, tax, loans, legal, accounting, real estate, crypto, contracts, sales, marketing, other business arrangements, etc.

 

401K – Turns Spenders into Savers w/ Jean Smart of Penelope & Ted Benna ‘Father of the 401K’

- BRT S03 EP11 (110) 3-13-2022

 

 

Things We Learned This Week

• 401K turns Spenders into Savers

• 401K provides Tax Deferral now, lowers Taxable Income

• Penelope serves Microbiz, business of 5 – 50 employees who are underserved by major financial institutions
• Simplify choices, and streamline the 401K process, reduce fees so all size business can participate
• Ted Benna – Father of the 401K, 401K may not be appropriate to all people or business, choose 401K or IRA based on needs & size of business

 

 

 

 

Guests: Jean Smart, Founder of Penelope

https://www.penelope.co/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/penelopeco

Jean Smart is the Founder/CEO. She has overseen the building of a cloud based recordkeeping system from scratch and they have begun to take on clients. I have helped them shape what they are offering using what I have learned working with small businesses. Their goal is to help micro female and minority owned businesses pick the right plan - not just a plan.  

 

Notes:

Background – Jean worked in financial industry in benefits department with small & big businesses.

Jean is an Immigrant of Korean descent. Worked in family business – had no 401K, could have saved money, maybe $1-5K/yr.

401K plans - complicated, but great opps. , the larger companies 401K plans are robust

Plan design, types of investments,  loans, investments, eligibility (F/T vs P/T)

60K funds to choose, complicated – rules and investments

Small business defined as under 500 employees, 32 million small businesses.

Micro plans – 5- 50 employees

 

Penelope – give less choice, 10 funds Vanguard – Target Date Funds with management make it simple

Conservative setup vs. age of employee – example: 45 yr old employee has 20 year target date funds

Target Date Retirement Funds 2020-2065

Automate – or can have blended average

401K – put in $20,500/yr or over 50, additional $6500 up to $27,000

Employee match 3% to 5% and up.

 

SEP IRA – self employed retirement plan for businesses of 5-10 people. Plan is a little different – put 50K+, also solo 401K – put up to $60K

 

401K for 10+ employees. Size of business affects what retirement plan business should use.

Savings, Penelope story, benefit of saving, Most Americans can’t save $20K or $50K

Some IRA options – good for smaller plans

Smaller plans – 401K, Safe Harbor 401K, IRA, SEP, Simple

Good to have options – 10+ employees 401K, less than 10, SEP or IRA

$45K income, put $15K in 401K, taxable income of $60K. Also employee match, take the free money $.100 employees and less, less regulations. Use match to lower fees.

Tax deferred – pay taxes when they take money out. Required minimum distribution (RMD) age is 72 to take money out and pay taxes. Penalties 10% at 59, if money taken out before 59.

Employer pays cost of plan, Fees – employee costs, AUM fee

Subscription based with low fee - $8 per month, $100 per employee

Penelope.co (is her 10 yr old daughter’s name) is a micro business with a staff of 10 in multiple locations.  Remote environment (NY, CA, Europe). Started in covid, new business 2021.

Outline platform – simple choices w/ 10 options, Vanguard Target Date

SaaS Platform – B to B, enterprise type setup w/ Education  videos

Capital Raise – Safe Harbor 401K – target fund is core plan

 

VC backed , has investors – 3 institutional investors with Seed 1, then seed 2 later in 2022

Respect the Founders, business owners – it’s hard. Modern day tech has more advantages and tools to help a small business.

Guts – get numbers. TAM,CAC, product market fit super rewarding, small company, create business.

No sleep, frenetic – but normalizes like solving puzzles.

 

Have to prove model works and add options (example: IRA), then Out of Stealth Mode to active

PR and Press release, partnership event

Women led businesses and immigrant businesses

Demos and proving market fit

401K is for savers.

 

 

 

Guests: Ted Benna, Benna 401K

http://benna401k.com

 

 

Ted Benna, Father of the 401K, has worked in pension and retirement benefits industry for 60 years, and literally wrote the book on the 401K. He was a pioneer in the early 80s in designing the early 401K Plans, and then getting them approved by the IRS to be the model still used today.

 

Books: 

401K Forty Years Later (2018) – history of the 401K

401K & IRA for Dummies Updated Version (2021)

 

Notes:

Pandemic, Inflation, Market is down

Think long term with 401K, 15-20 years to retirement

If closer to retirement, less risk exposure, less equity investment

Ted Benna history with 401K, should not be sole plan for retirement, Diversify portfolio with life insurance, and real estate.

Biggest benefit of 401K – turn spenders into savers

People have other expenses, kids, house, bills, etc., hard to save $ money 

Companies can help employees save more for retirement.

401K is tax deferred – lower taxable income today and pay taxes at retirement.

Help lower taxes and speed up savings.

401K changes Ted would recommend –

50% workplace has no retirement plan, states like CA & OR are working to mandate this.

401K was hijacked by financial institutions. Fees are too high, need less expensive plans for small business employers with 2.75% fees.

401K is not always best solution for all business, may need IRA, alternative investments, depends on size

 

Jean Smart of Penelope created a transparent 401K plan with low fees and all disclosed.

Ted Benna worked with Jean Smart at Penelope to design good plans w/ low fees.

Get right plan for small business employers  - 401K may not be the best plan.

4 different types of 401K plans

 

Financial Advisors and services just sell 401K. Market for small businesses is not lucrative.

People who work hard, but can’t fund retirement.

Micro businesses need help, business with  5-20 employees, minority and female owned businesses. 

Employers pay setup and maintenance fees. Employee pays .5% fee just for investment part.

 

 

Ted Benna 1st appearance on BRT Podcast in 8/2021

Topic: Ted Benna, the Father of the 401k Covers It All, History, pensions, Fees & More

Full Show: HERE

 

 

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More 'Best of Investing': Here

 

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Business Roundtable with Matt Battaglia

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