The United States government shutdown that began this week is the first in seven years. While it might not feel immediately disruptive, for startups waiting on permits, visas, or regulatory approvals, even a few weeks can become an existential problem.
On the latest episode of Equity, Kirsten Korosec, Anthony Ha, and Max Zeff discuss how this uncertainty is affecting startups in ways people might not realize. They also explore the messy reality of AI companies still trying to figure out sustainable business models.
The conversation covers several key topics. It looks at OpenAI’s launch of the Sora app, which is its own TikTok-style feed of AI-generated content. The hosts question whether people actually want to pay for an endless stream of synthetic videos.
They also discuss how the AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood is proving that even fake performers can cause real industry drama. Another topic is Periodic Labs, which raised a three hundred million dollar seed round from Andreessen Horowitz, Jeff Bezos, and Nvidia to build AI scientists and discover new physics.
Finally, the episode examines the US government taking equity stakes in companies like Lithium Americas, MP Materials, and Intel. This move is raising questions about what happens when Washington steps in as a shareholder.
Equity is TechCrunch’s flagship podcast, produced by Theresa Loconsolo. It posts every Wednesday and Friday.