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KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
In a priced round, the SAFEs convert into shares, and the option pool is often increased to accommodate new hires, which can dilute existing shareholders.
Video
YC
Understanding SAFEs and Priced Equity Rounds by Kirsty Nathoo
@ Y Combinator
10/17/18
Related Takeaways
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
03/07/18
@ Y Combinator
In a priced round, the SAFE converts into shares based on the pre-money valuation, which includes the increased options pool.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
Founders need to be aware that their ownership percentage can decrease significantly due to dilution from SAFEs and new equity rounds, so they should plan accordingly for future fundraising. The percentage of ownership for SAFE investors is based on the valuation cap in the SAFE, and if the priced round valuation is higher than the cap, they convert at the cap, receiving more shares for the same investment than Series A investors.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
03/07/18
@ Y Combinator
The SAFE converts into shares when the company completes an equity financing, which can be a priced round or a series round.
YC
Y Combinator Cast
03/07/18
@ Y Combinator
Founders should be cautious about how much they raise on SAFEs, as it dilutes their ownership in the company.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
The introduction of post-money SAFEs simplifies understanding dilution by clarifying how much of the company founders have sold to investors after all SAFEs have converted.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
It's crucial for founders to understand their dilution when raising money through SAFEs or convertible notes, as they may end up owning significantly less of the company than expected after a priced round.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
The lead investor in a priced round typically negotiates the creation of an option pool for new employees, which can dilute existing shareholders but not the new money being invested.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
Most companies will raise money first on SAFEs or other convertible instruments, which can complicate understanding how much of the company has been sold.
KN
Kirsty Nathoo
10/17/18
@ Y Combinator
When raising money on SAFEs, the investor's ownership is calculated by dividing their investment amount by the post-money valuation or valuation cap.