FWDStart

Past Editions

Mar 31, 2025

VC React Podcast (Episode #30)

Exploring what it looks like when local founders tackle legacy systems head-on — from automating debt collection and rebuilding Africa’s financial rails, to creating real-time AI dubbing engines that break language barriers at scale.

Jamie Lane

🎧 Podcast🎧 Podcast

Mar 17, 2025

VC React Podcast (Episode #28)

Breaking down Talabat’s unusual acquisition of InstaShop, a rumoured billion-dollar funding round for Saudi q-commerce outfit Ninja, and the evolution of BNPL in Saudi Arabia.

Jamie Lane

🎧 Podcast🎧 Podcast

Mar 02, 2025

VC React Podcast (Episode #27)

Big funding rounds, a major acquisition, and cake.

Jamie Lane

🎧 Podcast🎧 Podcast

Feb 23, 2025

VC React Podcast (Episode #26)

A rare surge of startup acquisitions sweeps MENA, and with Qatar attracting major VCs like Human Capital, Utopia, and Builders VC, we debated whether Doha is emerging as a deeptech hub and how its startup ecosystem strategy stacks up against Saudi and the UAE.

Jamie Lane

🎧 Podcast🎧 Podcast

Feb 18, 2025

VC React Podcast (Episode #25)

Reviewing LEAP 2025, Tabby achieves $3.3BN valuation, the rise of construction tech and capital continues to pour in for early-stage funds

Jamie Lane

🎧 Podcast🎧 Podcast

Feb 10, 2025

VC React Podcast (Episode #24)

Saudi fintech and building AI agents for MENA

Jamie Lane