Learn about the latest moves from these tech companies on the Puget Sound. This is the Built In Seattle weekly refresh.
Makara helps people invest in crypto. With its product that acts as an advisor for new investors, Makara launched out of stealth to give people guidance about cryptocurrency. The company’s robo-advisor consists of algorithms that automate parts of the investment process. It claims its tech is also the first of its kind to be registered by the SEC. [Built In Seattle]
Seattle ranked number one for tech office leases. Last year, 14 tech companies leased 3.4 million square feet of office space in the Seattle area. For instance, Amazon is looking at Bellevue with plans to locate 25,000 employees there. As vaccinations continue to be distributed nationwide, more companies, like Microsoft, are predicted to resume in-office work as it makes a broader comeback in the latter part of this year. [GeekWire]
Seattle Tech Quote of the Week
Common Room got $52M. Freshly launched out of stealth, its product works to help communication enterprises like Slack and Discord better connect with their users, allowing customers to share live feedback with their marketing teams. With its funding from investors like Greylock and Madrona Venture Group, Common Room plans to hire new talent, especially in engineering and content. [Built In Seattle]
Amazon to resume office-centric work. The e-commerce giant’s plans post-pandemic include welcoming employees back to the office by early fall. In contrast with the hybrid work options being embraced by other tech leaders like Microsoft and Facebook, Amazon hopes to create an environment for its employees to “invent, collaborate, and learn together most effectively.” [MyNorthwest]
