Google’s earnings came with the usual dearth of information, although it appears that Google Cloud is growing more than expected. AWS growth, meanwhile, is definitely slowing as Amazon’s business broadly is running out of low-hanging fruit.
2019
Facebook’s FTC Settlement, Assigning Blame, Facebook Earnings
The FTC has released its complaint against Facebook, leading me to change my mind and put more blame on the company. Complaints about the FTC are still misplaced, though: the real problem is Congress. Meanwhile, Facebook continues growing undeterred.
Snap Earnings, Notes and Concerns, DoorDash and Tipping
Snap’s earnings were impressive, including the most valuable AR application of all time, but the company still needs to show it can earn advertisers broadly. Then, DoorDash responds to pressure from the demand side.
Tinder Bypasses Google Play Payments, App Store Fees and Differences, Apple Entering Modem Business?
Tinder is moving away from Google Play Store’s payment system, which makes sense given the app’s pricing power. Then, how the app store tax warps costs, and why Apple may not see much upside from getting into modems.
Microsoft Earnings, Teams Passes Slack, The Partner Advantage
Microsoft continues to crush earnings with its integrated approach. Then, Teams passed Slack, and its lead will likely widen, because it is a sustaining technology, not a disruptive one. Plus, the importance of Microsoft partners.
Libra in Congress; Global Community, Revisited; Messianic Versus Money-Making
Libra had a chilly reception at Capitol Hill, which highlighted a fundamental tension between Internet companies and lawmakers. Then, why it was inevitable that Facebook would make Libra, and why it was probably the wrong choice.
Netflix Earnings; Reasons for Concern, and Optimism; Apple Reportedly Pursuing Exclusive Podcasts
Netflix’s earnings are worrisome, but for predictable reasons; ultimately, the company remains in a strong position. Then, Apple’s rumored move into exclusive podcasts doesn’t make sense and is in fact good for Spotify.
Substack Raises Series A, An Interview With Substack Co-Founders Christopher Best and Hamish McKenzie
An interview with Substack Co-Founders Christopher Best and Hamish McKenzie, who recently raised a Series A to enable newsletters from Andreessen Horowitz.
Facebook’s FTC Fine, Apple and Microsoft’s Mistake, IBM’s Unbundling
Facebook’s FTC fine is being pilloried, but it really is large and unprecedented. Plus, why Facebook critics were asleep at the wheel. Then, Microsoft saving Apple has an analogy to IBM, and is a potential argument in favor of antitrust action.
Shopify Follow-up, Defining Definitions, OpenDoor Partners with Redfin
More on Shopify, including why I was reluctant to cover the previously, but now see the promise of the Internet in their model. Then, why I’m excited about being uncertain, and how Redfin and Opendoor’s partnership helps define the market in home-buying.