AI Startups Raised $2.9 Billion in Three Months—Here’s Why

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) and XRP (CRYPTO: XRP) have experienced significant pullbacks after a period of strong growth, with XRP dropping nearly 20% in one session and Bitcoin retreating after hitting a record high in July. Despite concerns that the summer rally might be over, these pullbacks are considered typical in a bull market, suggesting they are just temporary pauses rather than a sign of a trend reversal. Want More Context? 🔎

Wave Life Sciences (NASDAQ:WVE) reported disappointing Q2 2025 earnings, with revenue of $8.7 million falling short of the $13.2 million forecast and a loss per share of $0.31 versus the anticipated $0.28. Despite a 55.8% year-over-year revenue decline and increased operating expenses, the company made progress in its RNA-based medicine pipeline using its proprietary PRISM platform. Want More Context? 🔎

Blackbaud (NASDAQ:BLKB), a provider of cloud software for social impact organizations, reported strong Q2 2025 results with non-GAAP earnings per share of $1.21, surpassing expectations, and a 6.8% organic revenue growth to $281.4 million, despite a 2.1% year-over-year decline in reported revenue due to the sale of EVERFI. Management has raised its full-year guidance following record profitability metrics for the quarter. Want More Context? 🔎

Home Federal Bancorp of Louisiana (NASDAQ:HFBL) reported a net income of $1.2 million for the quarter ending June 30, 2025, significantly up from $638,000 the previous year, with diluted earnings per share rising to $0.38. The bank, serving northwest Louisiana, attributes these gains to lower funding costs and increased non-interest income, although it faces challenges with asset quality and deposit contraction. Want More Context? 🔎

Funds tracking the Russell 2000 index offer investors exposure to 2,000 small-cap U.S. companies, often outperforming the S&P 500 during economic growth. The Vanguard Russell 2000 ETF (NASDAQ: VTWO) is a popular choice due to its large size and low expense ratio of 0.07%, raising the question of whether it's the right investment option currently. Want More Context? 🔎

Highwoods Properties (NYSE:HIW) reported strong operational performance in Q2 2025, marked by increased leasing activity and a stable occupancy rate, as management prepares for long-term repositioning. With secured leases poised to boost future NOI growth and a solid balance sheet featuring minimal debt maturity, the company is well-positioned for capital initiatives and enhanced financial results by late 2026. Want More Context? 🔎