Does your company have a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)? If the answer is no, you might be sitting on a ticking time bomb. The CFO is the key figure who drives financial strategy in Anglo-Saxon companies, second only to the CEO in terms of importance. They manage investments, cash flow, bank relations, and ensure that the company is on a solid financial foundation.

In our country, many businesses operate without this crucial figure, and the result? Avoidable financial problems. When no one manages the company’s finances, it becomes riddled with debt, high interest rates, undercapitalized, and blocked from growth. Does this sound familiar?

Many entrepreneurs believe that an accountant can fill this role, but their job is different: they handle taxes, not financial management. Entrusting your company's finances to someone not specialized is like having an orthopedic surgeon perform eye surgery. Would you make such a choice?

Yet, in many Italian companies, the most important role after the CEO remains unfilled, and the results are visible to all. Hiring a full-time CFO might seem costly – in Switzerland, a CFO's salary starts at 180k CHF per year. But think of it as a critical investment for your company.

However, it’s not necessary to hire a full-time CFO. You can opt for an external CFO, who provides the same level of strategic support at a reduced cost, handling your company’s key financial decisions. That’s what we do: offering expert financial guidance to help you navigate investments, cost management, and sustainable growth.

Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can transform your company’s future!

Sure, many entrepreneurs attempt to manage their business finances on their own, but it's a risky and complex path. The skills required for effective financial management go far beyond simple accounting: they include strategic planning, cash flow management, risk analysis, and tax optimization.

Here are a few reasons why doing it all yourself can lead to problems:

1. Lack of specialized expertise: Corporate finance requires specific skills, from debt management to investment analysis. A CFO or financial expert has the experience that an entrepreneur might lack, risking poor decisions that could have costly consequences.

2. Time taken away from growth: Focusing on internal financial management can distract you from core activities, such as operations or business expansion. Delegating financial management to a professional allows the entrepreneur to focus on what they do best.

3. Risk prevention: A CFO has the foresight to anticipate financial issues, identify optimization opportunities, and plan long-term. Without expert guidance, companies risk falling into financial traps that could have been avoided with more strategic management.

In conclusion, managing your company’s finances alone may seem like a cost-saving solution, but it can be expensive in terms of time, errors, and missed opportunities. Relying on a CFO, even an external one, provides expert financial guidance, ensuring the growth and stability of your business.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

Our company is committed to supporting innovative projects and young entrepreneurial talent. We firmly believe in the potential of new ideas and the ability to turn them into successful realities. That's why we offer a unique opportunity: after a thorough evaluation of the project, we provide the chance to enter into collaborations through a "pay for equity" model.

But what does "pay for equity" mean? It’s a model that allows entrepreneurs to pay part of our fee with shares of their company instead of cash. In essence, we become not just consultants but strategic partners, working alongside the entrepreneur to grow their business. This approach allows access to high-level support that might otherwise be out of reach due to the high fees of traditional advisors.

Our philosophy is simple: we invest in people before numbers. We believe in ideas, passion, and the determination of young entrepreneurs, and we are convinced that our experience can make a difference. When we agree to join as co-founders, we are not just observers but key players working towards the company's success. We share the risks and goals, offering our network, expertise, and commitment.

Being co-founders means having a vested interest in the company's growth and success. This drives us to do everything possible to maximize the project's potential. Our involvement goes beyond one-off consulting; we dive into the core of the business, tackling challenges alongside the entrepreneur. Our shared objective? To grow the company and lead it to a remarkable exit, creating value not only for investors but for all stakeholders involved.

In a constantly evolving market, our "pay for equity" proposition represents a dynamic and innovative model that goes beyond a typical consulting relationship. It’s a true partnership built on mutual trust and ambition, where every success is shared, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Choosing to work with us means entering a partnership where the project's success is our primary goal, and every step forward is a milestone to celebrate together.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

We invest in innovative companies that are actively shaping various industries, including health tech, AI-driven drug discovery, sustainable banking, personalized medicine, biotech, data management, virtual reality, and many more. 

Our portfolio reflects a commitment to supporting groundbreaking technologies that redefine their sectors and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Each of these companies brings a unique approach to solving modern challenges, from sustainable protein production to advanced diagnostics and beyond, driving change and creating impactful solutions for the future.

Here is the list of companies in which we are investors, along with information about notable co-investors:

1. Akido Labs - Health data management solutions. Co-investors include Andreessen Horowitz, known for its focus on tech startups.

2. Aspiration - Sustainable banking and investment services. Supported by notable investors like Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert Downey Jr.

3. Atomwise - AI-driven drug discovery. Co-investors include Data Collective and Tencent, leaders in AI innovations.

4. The Every Company - Sustainable protein production. Co-invested by McCain Foods and Khosla Ventures, major players in sustainable food tech.

5. Replit - Collaborative coding platform. Co-investors include Andreessen Horowitz and Y Combinator, key figures in software development.

6. Eaze - Cannabis delivery service. Supported by DCM Ventures and Casa Verde Capital, Snoop Dogg’s cannabis-focused venture fund.

7. Enlitic - AI for medical diagnostics. Co-invested by Amplify Partners, a leader in AI and machine learning investments.

8. Fove - VR headsets with eye-tracking. Supported by Samsung Ventures, specializing in VR technology.

9. Health Catalyst - Healthcare data analytics. Co-investors include Sequoia Capital and UPMC Enterprises.

10. Iguazio - Data platform for AI applications. Co-invested by Bosch and Dell Technologies Capital.

11. InsightRX - Personalized medicine platform. Supported by OSF Ventures, specializing in healthcare.

12. Koniku - Biotechnology for chemical detection. Co-investors include Airbus Ventures.

13. Landed - Recruiting and financial solutions for hospitality workers. Co-investors include Lowercase Capital.

14. Notable Labs - Personalized cancer therapies. Co-invested by First Round Capital and Builders VC.

15. NGD Systems - Smart data storage solutions. Supported by Partech Ventures.

16. Cofactor Genomics - RNA-based cancer diagnostics. Co-investors include St. Louis Arch Angels.

17. ReadMe - API documentation tools. Co-invested by Gradient Ventures, Google’s AI-focused venture fund.

18. Pico - Digital content monetization platform. Supported by Precursor Ventures.

19. Padlet - Collaborative digital boards. Co-invested by Global Brain Corporation.

20. ZeroDB - Encrypted database for data privacy. Co-investors include Bain Capital Ventures.

21. VitroLabs - Sustainable lab-grown leather. Supported by Kering, a leader in sustainable luxury.

22. JustPaid - Automated invoice management. Backed by private investors in fintech.

23. Advocat AI - Legal automation platform with AI. Co-invested by LegalTech Fund.

These companies represent our strategic investments in cutting-edge technologies and high-growth sectors, supported by some of the world's most renowned investors.

In today's economic landscape, the growth and success of a company largely depend on its ability to attract investments and effectively manage the various stages of financing. Each phase, from venture capital seed funding to the founders' exit, presents unique challenges that require careful management and expert negotiation of legal agreements.

Seed Stage: The Starting Point for Success

The seed stage is a crucial first step in a startup's journey. Through seed funding, entrepreneurs obtain the initial capital needed to develop their product or service. However, negotiating the terms of this financing can be complex and requires a deep understanding of contract clauses and investor expectations. At Assetx, we can guide you in drafting agreements that protect your interests and foster a fruitful collaboration with venture capitalists.

Intermediate Stages: Growth and Development

As your company grows, you will need additional rounds of financing to expand operations, enter new markets, and develop new products. Each financing round involves detailed negotiations on valuations, dilution, and investor rights. At Assetx, we will help you navigate these negotiations, ensuring that the legal agreements are well-structured to support your long-term growth.

Founders' Exit: The Final Milestone

Reaching the exit, whether through a sale, merger, or IPO, is the culmination of every entrepreneur's hard work. However, this stage requires meticulous planning and skilled negotiation to maximize returns and ensure a smooth transition. With Assetx's assistance, you can structure the exit to reflect your company's true value while protecting your personal interests and those of your investors.

Why Turn to Assetx?

Navigating the complex dynamics of corporate financing requires experience and expertise. At Assetx, we offer specialized consulting to guide you through every stage of your company's financing. From the initial negotiation of seed funding to the drafting of agreements for the exit, our goal is to ensure that each step is managed strategically and beneficially for you.

When considering how to approach these delicate phases of corporate life, it can be helpful to seek support from professionals with proven experience in the field. Collaborating with Assetx can make the difference in turning challenges into opportunities, ensuring sustainable growth and a successful exit.

For further information and to discuss your specific needs, contact us now.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

Our areas of expertise are:

a. Negotiation of agreements with investors and venture capital. 

b. Negotiation of financing with banks and financial institutions. 

c. Legal advice on contracts and financing agreements. 

d. Consulting and negotiation in the financial and strategic decisions of the Startup. 

e. Tax planning and corporate structure consulting. 

f. Consulting for the establishment of companies or branches in Switzerland.

Our areas of expertise are diverse and aimed at providing comprehensive support to companies, particularly startups, at various stages of their development and in their daily operations.

Firstly, we handle the negotiation of agreements with investors and venture capital. This includes assisting in the preparation and negotiation of terms and conditions with potential investors, as well as managing relationships with venture capital firms. Our goal is to ensure that agreements are structured favorably for the company, maximizing the value of the investment received.

Another crucial area of our activity is the negotiation of financing with banks and financial institutions. We provide expert advice to obtain the necessary financing for business growth, helping to negotiate loan terms and lines of credit. Our support aims to secure the best possible conditions, reducing financing costs and improving the company’s financial sustainability.

We also offer legal advice on contracts and financing agreements. This includes legal assistance in drafting and reviewing contracts, ensuring that all agreements comply with current regulations. Our legal team works to protect the company’s interests, minimizing legal risks and ensuring that all contractual clauses are clear and enforceable.

Consulting and negotiation in the financial and strategic decisions of the startup is another of our specialties. We help companies with strategic decisions regarding growth and development, providing support in negotiating crucial financial operations. The goal is to guide the startup through critical phases of its lifecycle, promoting decisions that favor long-term sustainability and success.

A key aspect of our consulting also involves tax planning and corporate structure. We provide guidance to optimize the company’s tax planning, helping to define the most suitable corporate structure to maximize tax and operational efficiency. This includes choosing between different legal forms and planning operations to minimize the tax burden.

Finally, we offer consulting for the establishment of companies or branches in Switzerland.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

We offer specialized consultancy for the negotiation and preparation of agreements in the various stages of startup financing, aimed at both founders and investors. Our goal is to ensure the best contractual terms for both parties. Our expertise covers all crucial stages of a startup's lifecycle:

Bootstrapping: Assistance in efficiently utilizing personal resources and managing initial finances.

Pre-seed: Support in preparing and negotiating agreements with accelerators, incubators, crowdfunding platforms, and angel investors.

Seed: Consultancy for negotiating financing aimed at product development, market validation, and acquiring the first customers.

Series A: Strategy for negotiating agreements that allow scaling the business, expanding the team, and improving the product with the support of venture capital.

Series B: Rapid growth plan focused on negotiating favorable terms to expand the market and increase sales.

Series C and subsequent rounds: Preparation for further expansions and acquisitions, with particular attention to negotiating advantageous terms.

IPO (Initial Public Offering) or acquisition: Guidance in preparing and negotiating for a stock market listing or a strategic acquisition, ensuring the best conditions for founders and investors.

With our experience and network, we provide comprehensive and personalized support at every stage, maximizing the value and success of your startup through optimal contractual terms.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

Entering the world of venture capital presents an incredible opportunity for the growth of your startup, but navigating this path requires utmost attention and expertise. The contractual clauses in agreements with venture capital funds can significantly impact the future of your company and your personal finances. This is where the value of professional support in managing these complex negotiations becomes crucial.

Key Clauses to Watch

When negotiating a contract with a venture capital fund, it is essential to pay particular attention to several clauses that can heavily influence the outcome for the entrepreneur:

1. Valuation: An inadequate valuation can excessively dilute your stake, reducing your potential future earnings.

2. Liquidation Preferences: These clauses determine who gets paid first and how much in the event of a sale or liquidation of the company. High preferences can leave you with little or nothing.

3. Anti-Dilution Clauses: These protect investors in case of future stock issuances at a lower price but can further dilute your stake.

4. Veto Rights: Investors may request veto rights on key decisions, limiting your ability to manage the company autonomously.

5. Co-Sale and Tag-Along Rights: These ensure investors can participate in the sale of shares, complicating potential exit operations.

6. Drag-Along Rights: These allow investors to force the sale of the entire company, potentially against your will.

7. Milestone-Based Funding: If funding is tied to achieving specific milestones, failing to meet these can disrupt the necessary capital flow for the company's growth.

8. Stock Options and Vesting: Vesting conditions can affect the amount of equity you and your team receive over time, with risks tied to retention and performance.

9. Non-Compete and Non-Solicitation Clauses: These can limit your freedom to start new ventures or hire key personnel, even after leaving the startup.

10. Board Rights: Investors often demand board seats, influencing corporate governance and strategic decisions.

Our Support: Protect Your Interests

The complexity and importance of these clauses highlight why it is crucial not to face venture capital negotiations alone. Our team of experts offers specialized support to manage all these clauses in the best possible way, protecting your interests and minimizing risks.

What We Offer:

• Detailed Analysis: We thoroughly examine all contractual clauses to identify potential risks and opportunities.

• Strategic Negotiation: We conduct strategic negotiations to secure more favorable terms, balancing investor needs with the long-term sustainability of your startup.

• Agreement Preparation: We ensure that all legal agreements are correctly drafted, protecting your rights and the future of your company.

• Ongoing Consultation: We provide continuous advice to handle any necessary modifications and adjustments during various funding stages.

Why Professional Support is Essential

Facing negotiations with venture capital funds without professional support can involve significant risks. Having an experienced team by your side, who understands the unique challenges of startups and the dynamics of venture capital, makes the difference between a beneficial agreement and one that jeopardizes your company's future.

Conclusion

Negotiating with venture capital funds is a complex and fraught process. Professional support can make the difference between a beneficial agreement and one that puts the future of your startup at risk. With our assistance, you can be confident that all contractual clauses will be managed in the best way to protect your interests and ensure a solid and secure growth path for your company.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

Negotiating financing with banks and financial institutions is a crucial phase for the growth of a startup. Having an experienced advisor by your side can make the difference between obtaining advantageous terms and encountering significant risks. Here are some of the main benefits of relying on a specialized advisor:

Expertise and Experience

An advisor experienced in financial negotiations understands the dynamics of the banking sector and the criteria financial institutions use to evaluate financing requests. This knowledge allows them to prepare solid and convincing proposals, increasing the chances of success.

Better Contract Terms

Advisors are skilled in negotiating contract terms that protect the startup’s interests. This includes securing lower interest rates, flexible repayment conditions, and reducing required guarantees. Thanks to their network of contacts, they can also facilitate access to financial institutions offering more favorable conditions.

Relationship Management

In addition to negotiating new financing, an advisor manages all existing and future relationships with banks and financial institutions. This includes handling communications, monitoring deadlines, and adjusting contract conditions in response to the startup’s changing needs.

Risk Reduction

The assistance of an advisor reduces the risks associated with unfavorable contract clauses that could compromise the financial stability of the startup. Through a thorough evaluation of contracts, the advisor identifies and mitigates potential issues, ensuring the startup remains protected.

Focus on Core Business

Entrusting the negotiation and management of financing to a professional allows the founders and management of the startup to focus on the core business and strategic activities without worrying about complex financial negotiations.

In summary, having a dedicated advisor for negotiating financing with banks and financial institutions offers numerous benefits that contribute to the startup’s success and sustainable growth. With their expertise and experience, advisors ensure that every financial decision is made in the company’s best interest, guaranteeing favorable conditions and reducing associated risks.

For more details on consultancy services, visit AssetX.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.

1. Negotiation with Venture Capital:

   • A founder needs to negotiate with a venture capital firm for a Series A round. We provide consultancy to negotiate the investment terms, ensuring that the founder secures favorable conditions such as a fair valuation, equitable distribution of shares, and advantageous exit terms.

2. Preparation of Seed Funding Agreements:

   • A startup in the seed funding stage has received offers from various angel investors. We help the founders prepare and negotiate the agreements, ensuring that investor protection clauses are balanced with maintaining control over the company's direction.

3. Optimization of Series B Terms:

   • A rapidly growing startup is seeking Series B funding to expand its market. We offer consultancy to secure the best contractual terms, such as anti-dilution clauses, vesting terms for new employees, and flexible financing options.

4. Support in the Pre-IPO Phase:

   • A startup is preparing for an IPO and needs to review agreements with existing investors. We provide consultancy to renegotiate terms and ensure optimal conditions for a successful listing, including managing investor expectations and preparing for compliance regulations.

5. Assistance in Evaluating the Term Sheet:

   • A founder has received a complex term sheet from a venture capital firm. We analyze the document, explain each clause, and suggest modifications to improve conditions, such as reducing management fees or adding protective terms against liquidation risks.

6. Strategic Acquisition Assistance:

   • A startup is negotiating a strategic acquisition by a large company. We provide consultancy to ensure the deal includes favorable terms for the founders, such as retaining key management roles post-acquisition and competitive compensation packages.

7. Managing Investor Relations:

   • A founder is struggling to manage investor demands after a funding round. We offer support to negotiate expectations and establish a balance between investor needs and the startup's strategic vision, ensuring a harmonious and productive collaboration.

These examples illustrate how our consultancy can help founders and investors navigate the complex world of startup financing, always securing the best possible contractual terms.

Contact us directly and we will conduct a free initial evaluation of your company's situation to determine if and how we can assist you.