5 days until TC All Stage and to save up to $475 before prices rise
Whether you're preparing for your next raise, looking to fine-tune your go-to-market strategy, or building your founding team, TC All Stage is where real startup momentum happens. This is a full-day event packed with actionable sessions, tactical advice, and conversations that push your company forward.
Right now, Founder Passes are just $100 and Investor Passes are $200 — but those savings (up to $475 off full price) vanish soon. Don't wait. Get your pass today before rates go up.
Fuel your next stage of growth
TC All Stage isn't about hype — it's about execution. Every session is built to deliver practical insights from founders, operators, and VCs who know what it takes to scale in today's climate.
On July 15 in Boston, you'll get:
Breakout sessions on fundraising frameworks, AI-driven product development, startup hiring, cap table strategy, and market readiness
on fundraising frameworks, AI-driven product development, startup hiring, cap table strategy, and market readiness Interactive roundtables designed for real talk, not surface-level fluff
designed for real talk, not surface-level fluff Live feedback during 'So You Think You Can Pitch' — the pitch competition that puts founder storytelling front and center
during 'So You Think You Can Pitch' — the pitch competition that puts founder storytelling front and center Curated networking through Braindate, helping you match with the right people for high-impact connections
through Braindate, helping you match with the right people for high-impact connections After-hours Side Events that go beyond the badge for candid convos and community-building
Hear from the operators and investors shaping what's next
Check the agenda and see who's taking the stage. A few of the experts you'll hear from:
Jon McNeill , DVx Ventures – why the next wave of disruptors must be operator-led from day one
DVx Ventures – why the next wave of disruptors must be operator-led from day one Kristen Craft , Fidelity Private Shares – decoding the VC landscape of 2025
Fidelity Private Shares – decoding the VC landscape of 2025 David H. Rosmarin , Harvard Medical School – transforming anxiety into a founder superpower
Harvard Medical School – transforming anxiety into a founder superpower Jeff Chow , Miro – building team intelligence through product-led innovation
Miro – building team intelligence through product-led innovation Kamila Khasanova, On Top Strategy – the storytelling strategies that drive successful raises
Image Credits:Halo Creative
Just 5 days to go — get your pass before prices increase
TechCrunch All Stage happens July 15 in Boston, and your chance to save ends soon. The event is just five days away, and prices rise at the door. Join the founders, VCs, and builders defining the future. Secure your pass now.
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Yahoo
18 minutes ago
- Yahoo
'New kind of frontier': Shareholder proposals on AI becoming increasingly widespread
When Canada's most valuable companies hosted their annual general meetings this year, there was a new topic for shareholders to vote on among the usual requests to appoint board members and OK their executive compensation. The proposal from Quebec-based investor rights group le mouvement d'éducation et de défense des actionnaires centred on artificial intelligence. It asked 14 companies, including Canada's biggest banks, retailer Dollarama Inc. and telecom giant BCE Inc., to sign a voluntary code of conduct the federal government developed to govern the technology. Experts say the proposal is likely just the start of what they expect to become an annual phenomenon targeting the country's biggest companies — and beyond. "This is a new kind of frontier in Canada for shareholder proposals," said Renée Loiselle, a Montreal-based partner at law firm Norton Rose Fulbright. "Last year, this was not on the ballot. Companies were not getting shareholder proposals related to AI and this year, it absolutely is." Loiselle and other corporate governance watchers attribute the increase in AI-related shareholder proposals to the recent rise of the technology itself. While AI has been around for decades, it's being adopted more because of big advances in the technology's capabilities and a race to innovate that emerged after the birth of OpenAI's ChatGPT chatbot in 2022. The increased use has revealed many dangers. Some AI systems have fabricated information and thus, mislead users. Others have sparked concerns about job losses, cyber warfare and even, the end of humanity. The opportunities and risks associated with AI haven't escaped shareholders, said Juana Lee, associate director of corporate engagement at the Shareholder Association for Research and Education (SHARE). "In Canada, I think, in the last year or two, we're seeing more and more shareholders, investors being more interested in the topic of AI," she said. "At least for SHARE ourselves, many of our clients are making it a priority to think through what ethical AI means, but also what that means for investee companies." That thinking manifested itself in a proposal two funds at the B.C. General Employees' Union targeted Thomson Reuters Corp. with. The proposal asked the tech firm to amend its AI framework to square with a set of business and human rights principles the United Nations has. It got 4.87 per cent support. Meanwhile, MÉDAC centred its proposals around Canada's voluntary code of conduct on AI. The code was launched by the federal government in September 2023 and so far, has 46 signatories, including BlackBerry, Cohere, IBM, Mastercard and Telus. Signatories promise to bake risk mitigation measures into AI tools, use adversarial testing to uncover vulnerabilities in such systems and keep track of any harms the technology causes. MÉDAC framed its proposals around the code because there's a lack of domestic legislation for them to otherwise recommend firms heed and big companies have already supported the model, director general Willie Gagnon said. Several companies it sent the proposal to already have AI policies but didn't want to sign the code. "Some of them told us that the code is mainly designed for companies developing AI, but we disagree about that because we saw a bunch of companies that signed the code that are not developing any AI," Gagnon said. Many of the banks told MÉDAC they'll soon sign the code. Only CIBC has so far. Conversations with at least five companies were fruitful enough that MÉDAC withdrew its proposals. In the nine instances where the vote went forward, the proposal didn't succeed. It garnered as much as 17.4 per cent support at TD Bank but as little as 3.68 per cent at engineering firm AtkinsRéalis Group Inc. Loiselle said you can't measure the success of a proposal based on whether it passes or not. "The goal of these shareholder proposals is more for engagement," she said. Sometimes, even just by filing a proposal, companies reveal more about their AI use or understand it's an important topic for shareholders and then, discuss it more with them. While proposals don't always succeed, Lee has seen shareholder engagement drive real change. SHARE recently had discussions with a large Canadian software company. AI was central to its business but didn't crop up in its proxy statement — a document companies file governing their annual general meetings. The firm also had no board oversight of the technology. SHARE was able to get the company, which Lee would not name, to amend its board charter to include oversight of AI and commit to more disclosure around its use of the technology in its annual sustainability report. "This is a really positive development and it's leading to improvement related to further transparency," she said. If the U.S. is anything to judge by, Lee and Loiselle agree Canadian shareholders will keep pushing companies to adhere to higher AI standards. South of the border, AI-related proposals first cropped up around two years ago. They've targeted Apple, The Walt Disney Co. and even Netflix, where a vote on disclosing AI use and adhering to ethical guidelines amassed 43.3 per cent support. The frequency and spectrum of AI-related requests shareholders have has only grown since and is likely to be mirrored in Canada, Loiselle said. "The landscape for shareholder proposals is changing and I think that change is here to stay," she said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 21, 2025. Tara Deschamps, The Canadian Press Sign in to access your portfolio
CNET
19 minutes ago
- CNET
Refi Rates Ride High: Current Refinance Rates on July 21, 2025
For the vast majority of homeowners, there's currently little financial incentive to refinance their mortgages. So far in 2025, average mortgage rates have remained elevated, consistently hovering between 6.5% and 7% due to ongoing economic uncertainty. "If rates fall below 6%, we could see a big jump in refinance activity," said Jeb Smith, licensed real estate agent and member of CNET Money's expert review board. Yet economists and housing market experts don't predict a dramatic drop-off in rates in the immediate future. Mortgage refinance rates fluctuate daily based on a range of economic and political factors. For more insights on where rates might be headed, check out our weekly mortgage rate forecast. When mortgage rates start to fall, be ready to take advantage. Experts recommend shopping around and comparing multiple offers to get the lowest rate. Enter your information here to get a custom quote from one of CNET's partner lenders. About these rates: Bankrate's tool features rates from partner lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates. Refinance rate news At the start of 2025, many expected inflation to keep cooling down and the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, which would have gradually lowered mortgage refinance rates. However, after cutting interest rates three times last year, the Fed has held rates steady in 2025 to observe how President Trump's policies on trade, immigration and government spending will affect the economy. The central bank is expected to resume cutting rates as early as September, but this will not immediately result in lower mortgage rates. While adjustments to its benchmark interest rate influence the direction of borrowing rates across the economy, the Fed doesn't directly control the mortgage market. As of now, the Fed is expected to make two 0.25% rate reductions this year. If inflation increases due to tariffs, policymakers may hold off on easing borrowing costs until later, which would keep upward pressure on mortgage refinance rates. What to know about 2025 refinance rate expectations Most housing forecasts still call for a modest decline in mortgage rates, with average 30-year fixed rates expected to end the year around below 6.5%. For refinancing to become significantly more affordable, though, we need to see multiple interest rate cuts and weaker economic data. Overall, it's unlikely we'll see another refinancing boom like the one in 2020-21 when mortgage rates were exceptionally low around 3%. Nevertheless, refinancing might be beneficial for other reasons, like changing the type of home loan, term length or taking someone off the mortgage. What to know about refinancing When you refinance your mortgage, you take out another home loan that pays off your initial mortgage. With a traditional refinance, your new home loan will have a different term and/or interest rate. With a cash-out refinance, you'll tap into your equity with a new loan that's bigger than your existing mortgage balance, allowing you to pocket the difference in cash. Refinancing can be a great financial move if you score a low rate or can pay off your home loan in less time, but consider whether it's the right choice for you. Reducing your interest rate by 1% or more is an incentive to refinance, allowing you to cut your monthly payment significantly. But refinancing your mortgage isn't free. Since you're taking out a whole new home loan, you'll need to pay another set of closing costs. If you fall into that pool of homeowners who purchased property when rates were high, consider reaching out to your lender and running the numbers to see whether a mortgage refinance makes sense for your budget, said Logan Mohtashami, lead analyst at HousingWire. How to choose the right refinance type and term The rates advertised online often require specific conditions for eligibility. Your personal interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your specific credit history, financial profile and application. Having a high credit score, a low credit utilization ratio and a history of consistent and on-time payments will generally help you get the best interest rates. 30-year fixed-rate refinance For 30-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 6.87%, an increase of 6 basis points from what we saw one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed refinance will typically have lower monthly payments than a 15-year or 10-year refinance, but it will take you longer to pay off and typically cost you more in interest over the long term. 15-year fixed-rate refinance For 15-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 6.21%, an increase of 10 basis points compared to one week ago. Though a 15-year fixed refinance will most likely raise your monthly payment compared to a 30-year loan, you'll save more money over time because you're paying off your loan quicker. Also, 15-year refinance rates are typically lower than 30-year refinance rates, which will help you save more in the long run. 10-year fixed-rate refinance The average rate for a 10-year fixed refinance loan is currently 6.38%, an increase of 29 basis points over last week. A 10-year refinance typically has the lowest interest rate but the highest monthly payment of all refinance terms. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much quicker and save on interest, but make sure you can afford the steeper monthly payment. To get the best refinance rates, make your application as strong as possible by getting your finances in order, using credit responsibly and monitoring your credit regularly. And don't forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around. Does refinancing make sense? Homeowners usually refinance to save money, but there are other reasons to do so. Here are the most common reasons homeowners refinance: To get a lower interest rate: If you can secure a rate that's at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance. If you can secure a rate that's at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance. To switch the type of mortgage: If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage. If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage. To eliminate mortgage insurance: If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity. If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity. To change the length of a loan term: Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run. Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run. To tap into your equity through a cash-out refinance: If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense. If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense. To take someone off the mortgage: In case of divorce, you can apply for a new home loan in just your name and use the funds to pay off your existing mortgage.
CNET
19 minutes ago
- CNET
Home Loan Rates Inch Higher for Borrowers: Mortgage Interest Rates Today for July 21, 2025
Check out CNET Money's weekly mortgage rate forecast for a more in-depth look at what's next for Fed rate cuts, labor data and inflation. The average for a 30-year fixed mortgage is 6.81% today, up 0.05% from seven days ago. The average rate for a 15-year fixed mortgage is 6.03%, which is an increase of 0.06% from the same time last week. To secure a lower mortgage interest rate, consider increasing your down payment, improving your credit score or purchasing mortgage points. What's behind high rates these days? Concerns about persistent inflation, threats of a global trade war and policy turbulence have created an uncertain economic outlook. In response, the Federal Reserve has adopted a wait-and-see approach and holding borrowing rates steady since the start of the year. Most economists predict the Fed will start lowering rates in September, particularly if President Trump eases some of his aggressive tariff measures or if the labor market continues to deteriorate. Prospective homebuyers shouldn't expect mortgage rates to become affordable overnight. While cheaper borrowing costs gradually trickle down to the housing market, the Fed doesn't directly set lenders' mortgage rates. In today's unaffordable housing market, mortgage rates are just one piece of the puzzle. High home prices and skyrocketing homeownership expenses, like insurance and property taxes, are further compounding the pressure on prospective buyers. The possibility of a job-loss recession is also pushing many households to tighten their budgets and take on less financial risk. When mortgage rates start to fall, be ready to take advantage. Experts recommend shopping around and comparing multiple offers to get the lowest rate. Enter your information here to get a custom quote from one of CNET's partner lenders. About these rates: Bankrate's tool features rates from partner lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates. What's going on with mortgage rates right now? The average 30-year fixed rate has hovered just below 7% for the last several months, resulting in cost-prohibitive monthly payments. Mortgage rates are closely tied to the bond market, specifically the 10-year Treasury yield, which reflects investors' expectations for inflation, labor data, changes to monetary policy and global measures like tariffs. "Rates could fall if inflation keeps cooling and the labor market softens," said Jeb Smith, licensed real estate agent and member of CNET Money's expert review board. "On the other hand, tariffs could create new inflation pressure. Add in government deficits and increased bond supply, and that puts upward pressure on rates." Even as the Fed eventually starts to lower interest rates, experts caution that significant market volatility is likely. As a result, homebuyers are adopting a more patient and strategic approach to financing, comparing various loan types and planning ahead. "Some are waiting, others are getting pre-approved now so they're ready to act if rates fall," said Smith. For a look at mortgage rate movement in recent years, see the chart below. Experts predict: Will mortgage rates rise or fall? While the housing market was expected to rebound in 2025, it has remained stagnant due to ongoing economic and political uncertainties. Median family income has not kept pace with the surge in housing costs, requiring many households to earn double or triple their salary to afford a modest home in some cities. Mortgage rates would have to drop significantly, close to 6% or below, to drum up significant homebuying demand. According to Smith, though, the more likely scenario is a slow and steady decline in borrowing costs. A return to the record-low rates, around 2-3%, we saw during the pandemic would only happen if the economy tipped into a severe recession. Fannie Mae's forecast puts rates around 6.5% by the end of 2025 and 6.1% by the end of 2026. Ongoing uncertainty could cause rates to stay high, or increase further. For instance, if tariffs cause inflation to reignite, which most experts and Fed officials expect, it could result in higher bond yields and fewer interest rate cuts by the central bank. Both would be bad for mortgage rates. Which mortgage term and type should I pick? Each mortgage has a loan term, or payment schedule. The most common mortgage terms are 15 and 30 years, although 10-, 20- and 40-year mortgages also exist. With a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate is set for the duration of the loan, offering stability. With an adjustable-rate mortgage, the interest rate is only fixed for a certain amount of time (commonly five, seven or 10 years), after which the rate adjusts annually based on the market. Fixed-rate mortgages are a better option if you plan to live in a home in the long term, but adjustable-rate mortgages may offer lower interest rates upfront. 30-year fixed-rate mortgages The 30-year fixed-mortgage rate average is 6.81% today. A 30-year fixed mortgage is the most common loan term. It will often have a higher interest rate than a 15-year mortgage, but you'll have a lower monthly payment. 15-year fixed-rate mortgages Today, the average rate for a 15-year, fixed mortgage is 6.03%. Though you'll have a bigger monthly payment than a 30-year fixed mortgage, a 15-year loan usually comes with a lower interest rate, allowing you to pay less interest in the long run and pay off your mortgage sooner. 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgages A 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage has an average rate of 6.02% today. You'll typically get a lower introductory interest rate with a 5/1 ARM in the first five years of the mortgage. But you could pay more after that period, depending on how the rate adjusts annually. If you plan to sell or refinance your house within five years, an ARM could be a good option. Calculate your monthly mortgage payment Getting a mortgage should always depend on your financial situation and long-term goals. The most important thing is to make a budget and try to stay within your means. CNET's mortgage calculator below can help homebuyers prepare for monthly mortgage payments. How can I get the lowest mortgage rates? Though mortgage rates and home prices are high, the housing market won't be unaffordable forever. It's always a good time to save for a down payment and improve your credit score to help you secure a competitive mortgage rate when the time is right. Save for a bigger down payment: Though a 20% down payment isn't required, a larger upfront payment means taking out a smaller mortgage, which will help you save in interest. Boost your credit score: You can qualify for a conventional mortgage with a 620 credit score, but a higher score of at least 740 will get you better rates. Pay off debt: Experts recommend a debt-to-income ratio of 36% or less to help you qualify for the best rates. Not carrying other debt will put you in a better position to handle your monthly payments. Research loans and assistance: Government-sponsored loans have more flexible borrowing requirements than conventional loans. Some government-sponsored or private programs can also help with your down payment and closing costs. Shop around for lenders: Researching and comparing multiple loan offers from different lenders can help you secure the lowest mortgage rate for your situation.
