News headlines of upcoming funding or an M&A or even an IPO, are not always factually accurate. There is a tendency to report every rumor. And occasionally, it is clearly leaked by companies themselves! Is it worth it? I know that there is a prevailing opinion among some that any coverage is good coverage. I don’t think so at all. Let me share a direct experience. A couple of years ago, I met a founder at a coffee shop, it was the first casual meeting and nothing more. The company was very early, but I left with a favourable impression that the founder was motivated. A few days later, I saw a short news item that Kalaari Capital was funding this company to the tune of $5M. I was a bit surprised, because we had no follow-on discussion post our first meeting. When I called the founder, he acknowledged leaking it to the press to create interest amongst other VCs who might then actively pursue him. This is very short-sighted. Over the years, I’ve seen many #startups use these tactics and it can undermine their credibility. These days, much of the news we read about funding and M&A is manipulated. Does it help to create a false sense of competition & by leaking rumours? #VentureCapital #Marketing #Media …see more