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This week has shown us that startups approach news in vastly different ways. Some prefer to keep a low profile, even when it comes to significant events like acquisitions. In contrast, others are more than willing to openly discuss their rivalries and dramas.
The Most Compelling Startup Stories of the Week

Founders aren’t always truthful when they claim everything is fine or hint at something being amiss. Nonetheless, the drama is entertaining, especially when they refuse to disclose any information.
Corporate Espionage: Following the filing of a lawsuit, HR tech startup Rippling made public the affidavit of its former employee accused of spying for rival Deel, and the details read like a movie script.
Trouble Brews: EV truck maker Harbinger accused Canoo of concealing assets during its bankruptcy process and filed an objection to the sale of Canoo’s assets to its CEO, Anthony Aquila, citing unfair favoritism.
Out of Vietnam: Qualcomm acquired the generative AI division of VinAI, a Vietnamese AI research company founded by former DeepMind scientist Hung Bui, with the terms of the deal not disclosed.
Epic Acquisition: Fortnite developer Epic Games acquired Loci, an AI platform that automatically tags 3D assets for easier search and IP infringement detection, for an undisclosed amount.
AMA Session: Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas participated in a Reddit AMA, confirming that the company has no plans for an IPO before 2028 and is not facing significant financial pressure.
Most Noteworthy VC and Funding News This Week
