### Eric Breon's New Venture
Eric Breon, the mastermind behind **Vacasa**, is back at it again, launching a new startup called **Fairly**. This Portland-based company aims to innovate in the **vacation rental management** sector, connecting homeowners directly with contractors for cleaning and maintenance services.

![Cozy Sunriver Cabin from VRBO](https://www.oregonlive.com/resizer/v2/LDZ5OZKIPBAV5G6DK6SA24VUIY.png?auth=a454a246156590c797259de789e13c81903c9cc6a710ae3a52d662301506bb0f&width=500&quality=90)
*Fairly connects homeowners with contractors to help manage and clean their vacation rentals in places like Sunriver.*  

Breon spent nearly **12 years** building Vacasa, which faced its share of challenges. However, he believes that he has developed a **better plan** with Fairly that will lead to greater success in the competitive vacation rental market. 

### The Vision Behind Fairly
The goal of Fairly is to streamline the management process for vacation rentals, making it easier for homeowners to maintain their properties without the hassle of juggling multiple service providers. By focusing on contractor connections, Fairly aims to enhance efficiency and quality in service delivery, potentially setting a new standard in the industry.

A startup called Fairly hopes to thrive where Eric Breon's last company, Vacasa, flopped. 

Eric Breon Launches Fairly: A Fresh Take on Vacation Rental Management

### GEMMA Biotherapeutics Raises $34 Million

**GEMMA Biotherapeutics**, founded by gene therapy pioneer **Jim Wilson**, has successfully raised **$34 million** in its inaugural venture financing. This funding will be directed towards developing **new gene therapies** for **rare diseases**. 

![Jim Wilson](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/CENODS/20241224lnp3-wilson?$responsive$&wid=300&qlt=90,0&resMode=sharp2)
*Credit: Matthew Bender/FILE*

The funding round was co-led by prominent investment firms **Double Point Ventures**, **Bioluminescence Ventures**, and **Earlybird Venture Capital**. While GEMMA Biotherapeutics has not disclosed specific conditions or timelines for its therapies, the company is actively seeking **strategic partners** for its gene therapy programs.

### Jim Wilson's Background

Jim Wilson has a rich history in the gene therapy field, having co-founded several companies such as **Passage Bio** and **iECURE**. This year, he announced the launch of **GEMMA Biotherapeutics** and the accompanying **Franklin Biolabs** after leaving his position at the **University of Pennsylvania**, where he led the Gene Therapy Program for over 20 years.

### Strategic Collaborations

Currently, GEMMA Biotherapeutics has one collaboration agreement with the **Oswaldo Cruz Foundation** in Brazil, which includes a **$100 million** commitment for clinical research and manufacturing across six programs. Some of the targeted conditions include **GM1 gangliosidosis**, **Krabbe disease**, and **metachromatic leukodystrophy**.

For more updates on GEMMA Biotherapeutics and its groundbreaking work in gene therapy, stay tuned!

GEMMA Biotherapeutics will put the money toward rare disease drugs

GEMMA Biotherapeutics Secures $34 Million for Revolutionary Rare Disease Gene Therapies

There’s a stark contrast between **growing up in a financially stable home** and an unstable one. The difference often lies in the **small details**—details that shape your understanding of the world and your place in it. When you grow up in a financially unstable home, you might not even realize it at first—you just know that **things are different**. 

Ever wondered why you feel uneasy about unexpected expenses or hesitate to treat yourself? These feelings often trace back to childhood experiences shaped by financial instability. Recognizing these signs is about understanding the **subtle clues**, reading between the lines, and acknowledging how those early experiences leave traces on your behavior, even as an adult. In this article, we’re going to explore **seven of these subtle signs**.

### 1) A Deep Understanding of Frugality
One of the first signs that you might have grown up in a financially unstable home is a deeply ingrained sense of **frugality**. Growing up in a financially unstable home often means learning to make do with what you have. It means understanding the value of a dollar at a very young age, and knowing all too well that **money doesn’t grow on trees**. This doesn’t just mean being careful with your money. It means having an almost instinctual understanding of how to stretch every penny, how to make things last, and how to get the most out of every dollar. As an adult, this can translate into **frugal habits** that stick with you for life.

### 2) Food Insecurities Linger
Another sign of growing up in a financially unstable home can be a lingering sense of **food insecurity**. For many, the end of the month was always tougher than the beginning. The fridge seemed emptier, and meals became more about **what we had left** rather than what we felt like eating. Cereal for dinner was not uncommon, and the thought of **wasting food** was abhorrent. Even as adults, these habits can linger, leading to anxiety about an empty fridge or viewing take-out as an extravagant luxury.

### 3) Fear of Debt
Growing up in a financially unstable home often instills a **fear of debt**. Owing money can be seen as a precarious position when you’ve grown up in an environment where every penny counts. This fear can persist even when financial circumstances improve, leading individuals to be wary of loans, credit cards, or any kind of borrowing.

### 4) Overemphasis on Job Security
If you find yourself excessively worrying about job security or have a deep fear of unemployment, it may be a sign that you grew up in a financially unstable home. The fear of not being able to pay bills or provide for oneself is deeply ingrained, leading to a strong desire for **job security**. You might find yourself sticking with a job you don’t particularly enjoy, simply because it offers a steady paycheck.

### 5) Difficulty Accepting Gifts or Help
Accepting gifts or help can feel uncomfortable when you’ve grown up in a financially unstable home. The act of receiving often came with a sense of guilt or unease, and the feeling still lingers into adulthood. It’s important to learn that it’s okay to accept kindness from others and that it doesn’t reflect negatively on your ability to take care of yourself.

### 6) Money Secrecy
A common trait among those who grew up in financially unstable homes is a tendency to be **secretive about money matters**. This can manifest as a reluctance to discuss salaries, financial goals, or challenges. While it’s perfectly fine to want some privacy around your finances, it’s also vital to understand that open and honest discussions about money can be incredibly beneficial.

### 7) A Heightened Sense of Empathy
Growing up in a financially unstable home often cultivates a heightened sense of **empathy**, especially towards those facing financial struggles. You’ve seen the struggles firsthand and are likely to understand and empathize with others who are going through similar situations. This empathy can be a powerful tool, driving you to help others and advocate for **financial literacy** and equality.

There’s a stark contrast between growing up in a financially stable home and an unstable one. The difference often lies in the small details—details that...

7 Subtle Signs You Grew Up in a Financially Unstable Home: Recognize Your Past

### The Future of EV Charging

Toronto-based **Kiwi Charge** is redefining the electric vehicle (EV) landscape by envisioning a world where **fixed chargers** are a thing of the past. They draw inspiration from traditional gas stations, allowing drivers to simply pull up and recharge their vehicles effortlessly.

### A Game-Changer in the Industry

Kiwi Charge is currently in discussions with the **Big 3 U.S. automakers**, aiming to integrate their innovative charging solutions into the automotive mainstream. This partnership could mark a significant shift in how charging infrastructure is perceived and utilized.

### Why Fixed Chargers Are Outdated

The startup argues that traditional charging stations resemble outdated gas pumps and fail to meet the evolving needs of modern drivers. By introducing a more **flexible and accessible charging system**, Kiwi Charge aims to enhance the overall EV ownership experience.

### The Vision Ahead

With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, Kiwi Charge's approach could pave the way for a **more sustainable and user-friendly** charging ecosystem.

Toronto-based Kiwi Charge sees fixed chargers as a relic of internal combustion, modelled after gas pumps where drivers pull up for their fill.

Revolutionizing EV Charging: Kiwi Charge's Bold Move to Partner with Major Automakers

### Meet the Power Players at XAI

Elon Musk's **xAI**, the ambitious **$50 billion startup**, is making waves in the tech world with its innovative chatbot, **Grok**, which aims to compete directly with **ChatGPT**. Founded in **2023**, xAI is at the forefront of AI development, and its team is filled with industry veterans and bright minds.

![xAI Logo](https://i.insider.com/6749eb0cfa0140cdd5663eca?width=700)

The key figures at xAI include:
- **Elon Musk**: The visionary behind the startup, known for his groundbreaking work with **Tesla** and **SpaceX**.
- **[Other Key Names]**: A diverse group of experts from various tech backgrounds, bringing a wealth of experience to the company.

As xAI continues to grow, its competition with established AI giants like ChatGPT is heating up, promising exciting advancements in the field of artificial intelligence.

Stay tuned for more updates from the world of tech and innovation!

Meet the key figures at Elon Musk's xAI, the $50 billion startup behind the chatbot Grok that's taking on ChatGPT. 

Discover the Key Players Behind Elon Musk's $50 Billion Startup XAI and Its Battle with ChatGPT

### Japan's Startup Stocks in Trouble  
A gauge of **Japan’s startup stocks** is heading towards its **longest run of annual losses** on record, primarily due to the looming threat of **higher interest rates**. This situation adds to a growing list of concerns that are driving investors away from the sector.

### Current Market Trends  
The **Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth Market 250 Index**, previously known as the **Mothers Index**, has decreased by about **11%** this year, marking its **fourth consecutive yearly loss**—the longest decline since 2000. In contrast, the broader **Topix Index** has risen by **15%**, buoyed by expectations that banks and life insurers will benefit from increased borrowing costs.

### Challenges for Startups  
The downturn in startup stocks may persist as the **Bank of Japan** prepares to raise interest rates, which would increase the costs for new companies seeking to finance **research and development**. Additionally, the recent depreciation of the yen against the dollar has shifted investor focus towards Japan’s exporters, sidelining startups that predominantly rely on domestic revenue.

### Structural Issues in the Startup Sector  
Startups are also grappling with **structural challenges** that affect their popularity among investors. Many companies are rushing to go public in a desperate bid for financing, often without a solid **long-term growth strategy**. According to Naoya Kawai, chief investment officer at **Fundnote**, IPOs have become a primary route for startups since late-stage investments are scarce.

### Investor Sentiment  
Ikuo Mitsui, a fund manager at **Aizawa Securities Co.**, notes that many startups prioritize going public over genuine growth, leading to **low liquidity**, small market value, and poor profitability. The **trading volume** of the Growth 250 index has dwindled to an **11-year low**, with its earnings per share remaining negative since 2019.

### Potential in the Startup Landscape  
Despite these challenges, not all hope is lost for Japan's startups. Praveen Kumar from **Baillie Gifford & Co.** highlights that there are opportunities for **outperformance** in growth stocks with low valuations, suggesting that attractive startups still exist in the market.

(Bloomberg) -- A gauge of Japan’s startup stocks is headed for its longest run of annual losses on record as the threat of higher interest rates adds to a list of issues keeping some investors away from the sector. Most Read from BloombergHo Chi Minh City Opens First Metro Line After Years of DelayThe Architects Who Built MiamiReviving a Little-Known Modernist Landmark in BuffaloNew York’s Congestion Pricing Plan Still Faces Legal HurdlesNew York City’s Historic Preservation Movement Is Having a

Japan's Startup Stocks Face Historic Slump Amid Rising Interest Rates

## Applications Due by January 10, 2025

From the Allegany County Industrial Development Agency, **Allegany County anticipates an award of a $300,000 grant** through the New York State Office of Community Renewal Micro-Enterprise Program. This funding will be administered by the Allegany County Industrial Development Agency (ACIDA) and will provide **small grants ranging from $10,000 to $35,000** to new or expanding local businesses.

The grants are specifically for **Allegany County small businesses with five or fewer employees** and can be utilized for various purposes to help these businesses get established or expand. However, please note that **grants may not be used for construction**, and a **10 percent cash match** is required.

To qualify, applicants must either be considered **low or moderate income** or create jobs that are accessible to low- and moderate-income individuals. Additionally, grant recipients must have completed an **entrepreneurship training course**. ACIDA is collaborating with **ACCORD Corporation** and **Incubator Works** to provide this essential training.

Applications are available on the **ACIDA website** and are due by **4:00 PM on January 10th, 2025**. You can find the application at [www.acida.org](http://www.acida.org).

For more information or to obtain an application, contact **Craig Clark** at [craig.clark@alleganyco.gov](mailto:craig.clark@alleganyco.gov) or via telephone at **(585) 268-7472** or **607-968-0214**.

![Allegany County Grant](https://wellsvillesun.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/walker12.23-1024x438.png)

Applications are due by January 10, 2025 From the Allegany County Industrial Development Agency, Allegany County anticipates an award of a $300,000 grant through the New York State Office of […]

Unlock Your Business Potential: Allegany County Offers $300,000 Grant for Small Businesses!

## Rising Health Insurance Costs in the Netherlands

More **Dutch residents** are opting for the **highest possible deductible** of **885 euros** for their health insurance to reduce monthly premiums, according to data from price comparison platform **Independer**. This trend reflects a growing preference for cutting costs amid rising insurance rates, despite the financial risks for those who later require care.

Independer’s data shows that nearly **59 percent** of people switching insurers this year chose an additional health insurance policy, compared to **70 percent** at the end of **2020**. Those who select the **maximum deductible** can save between **15 and 20 euros** on their monthly premiums.

The mandatory minimum deductible in the Netherlands is **385 euros**, which must be paid out-of-pocket for costs such as medications and emergency hospital care. By opting for the higher **885 euros deductible**, individuals assume greater financial risk but benefit from lower monthly payments. 

> “People who choose the higher deductible typically expect to incur minimal healthcare costs,” said **Mirjam Prins**, a health insurance expert at Independer. “But if they do need care, for example after breaking a leg, they’ll have to pay the first **885 euros** themselves. That’s a significant amount. We advise setting aside this money in a savings account.”

Supplemental insurance, including dental and physical therapy plans, is also becoming less popular. In **2019**, **45 percent** of policyholders opted for dental coverage, but this figure has fallen to **30 percent** in **2023**. Many are now choosing only basic insurance, as premiums for supplemental plans often exceed the cost of paying for treatments out of pocket.

### Age and Gender Differences

Men are more likely than women to choose the maximum deductible, with **36 percent** of men making this choice compared to **25 percent** of women. The highest adoption rate is among those aged **35 to 44**, where **39 percent** opt for the **885 euros deductible**. In contrast, only **16 percent** of seniors over **65** choose this option, as they typically anticipate higher healthcare costs. Notably, **82 percent** of seniors still purchase supplemental insurance, compared to just **27 percent** of those aged **35 to 44**.

Among younger adults (**18 to 24**), **73 percent** opt for supplemental insurance, frequently for dental coverage, travel-related healthcare, and contraception.

The rising costs of basic health insurance are a major driver of these shifts. The average premium for basic coverage will exceed **158 euros** per month next year, raising concerns from the **Patients’ Federation Netherlands**. Spokesperson **Tijmen Hendriksen** criticized the trend toward higher deductibles, noting that one in five Dutch residents now avoids seeking necessary care due to financial constraints.

> “People delay care, skip medications, or avoid the dentist, which often leads to more severe health issues and higher costs later,” Hendriksen said. “We oppose the higher deductible. While it benefits healthy individuals, it undermines the solidarity of our healthcare system. Sick people don’t have the luxury of that choice.”

In **2023**, approximately **1.3 million** Dutch residents—**7.4 percent** of the population—switched health insurers. While **81.5 percent** had supplemental insurance last year, that figure has declined steadily over the past four years.

![Health Insurance](https://nltimes.nl/themes/custom/nl_times/images/hash.png)

More Dutch residents are opting for the highest possible deductible of 885 euros for their health insurance to reduce monthly premiums, according to data from price compariso

Eric Breon Launches Fairly: A Fresh Take on Vacation Rental Management

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Eric Breon's New Venture

The Vision Behind Fairly

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Other Latest News

GEMMA Biotherapeutics Secures $34 Million for Revolutionary Rare Disease Gene Therapies

7 Subtle Signs You Grew Up in a Financially Unstable Home: Recognize Your Past

Revolutionizing EV Charging: Kiwi Charge's Bold Move to Partner with Major Automakers

Discover the Key Players Behind Elon Musk's $50 Billion Startup XAI and Its Battle with ChatGPT

Japan's Startup Stocks Face Historic Slump Amid Rising Interest Rates

Unlock Your Business Potential: Allegany County Offers $300,000 Grant for Small Businesses!

Why Are More Dutch Residents Choosing Higher Health Insurance Deductibles?

Other Latest News

GEMMA Biotherapeutics Secures $34 Million for Revolutionary Rare Disease Gene Therapies

7 Subtle Signs You Grew Up in a Financially Unstable Home: Recognize Your Past

Revolutionizing EV Charging: Kiwi Charge's Bold Move to Partner with Major Automakers

Discover the Key Players Behind Elon Musk's $50 Billion Startup XAI and Its Battle with ChatGPT

Japan's Startup Stocks Face Historic Slump Amid Rising Interest Rates

Unlock Your Business Potential: Allegany County Offers $300,000 Grant for Small Businesses!

Why Are More Dutch Residents Choosing Higher Health Insurance Deductibles?