Ballmer’s Bad Bundle Economics, Netflix Loses Epix Movie Deal

The Daily Update is back with a renewed focus on streaming, bundling, and over-the-top offerings. First up is an analysis of Steve Ballmer’s rumored plans to launch an over-the-top network for Clippers games, and more broadly, a discussion about why bundling works. Then, Netflix loses movies, but it’s the content companies that are losing more from a lack of alignment.

Aggregation and Antitrust, BuzzFeed Makes News, BuzzFeed’s Valuation in Perspective

The differing approaches to antitrust in the U.S. and Europe could mean completely different outcomes in the long run for aggregation companies. Meanwhile, BuzzFeed has raised a new round and seems to be doing better than ever, which is great news for journalism. Plus, how to think about startup valuations.

Aggregation and the New Regulation

Because of the Internet realities described by Aggregation Theory a smaller number of companies hold an increasing amount of power. However, an increasing focus on market forces reduces the latitude for bad behavior, and the incentives — and means — to hold those companies to account are greater than ever.

The New York Times on Amazon, Jeff Bezos’ Email, Why Work for Amazon

The New York Times has a very in-depth critique of Amazon’s work culture. Some of what was reported was truly deplorable, and Jeff Bezos wrote that he agrees; other parts, though, deserve a much more nuanced and respectful discussion than what the New York Times provided.

Do You Trust Larry Page?

With the establishment of Alphabet Larry Page is setting himself up to pursue his vision of how the world should be, and in the process challenging assumptions about how businesses should be run and the means through which progress is achieved.

Verizon Changes Rate Plans, The Importance of Upgrades, iMessage and the U.S. Market

Verizon announced they were changing the structure of their phones plans away from subsidies and towards phone financing. I think it’s less of a big deal than many are painting it to be, and if anything, it will help the iPhone. Plus, why iMessage is particularly important in the U.S.