Marketplace Tech Bytes: Week in Review — Alphabet takes on debt to pay for AI projects, the social network where humans aren't allowed, and Spotify reports record user growth
9 snips
Feb 13, 2026 
Jewel Burks Solomon, managing partner at Collab Capital and startup investor, breaks down big tech financing and AI bets. She discusses Alphabet raising long-term debt to fund AI infrastructure. She explores a bot-only social network called Moltbook and its security risks. She also talks about Spotify’s standout user growth and the social power of music sharing.
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Alphabet's Century-Long Bet On AI
- Alphabet's long-term bonds signal a multi-decade bet on AI infrastructure and capacity.
- Jewel Burks Solomon says this shows Alphabet is 'in this for the long haul' and building to win the AI race.
Why Corporates Issue Unusually Long Debt
- Century bonds are atypical for corporations and require investor belief in Alphabet's future solvency.
- Jewel Burks Solomon links these bonds to funding long-lived infrastructure needs amid AI volatility.
AI Spending Could Squeeze Startup Exits
- Big tech tying up balance sheet capital may reduce acquisition activity and shift toward build-over-buy.
- Jewel Burks Solomon warns this could change liquidity and exit opportunities for startups.