Funding & Capital Raising
QSBS Expansion – What You Need to Know

Congress made major changes to QSBS, expanding who qualifies and how much gain can be excluded. The asset cap rose to $75 million, and investors can now exclude up to $15 million or 10× their basis—whichever is greater. Shorter holding periods also now qualify for partial tax breaks. These changes open the door for both investors and companies to benefit from this powerful tax incentive.


Funding & Capital Raising
Private Funds, Public Rules – What Fund Managers Need to Know

This blog breaks down what qualifies as an “investment company” under federal law and explains how private fund managers—like those running hedge funds or venture capital firms—can avoid burdensome public registration by meeting key legal exemptions.


Funding & Capital Raising
Investment Advisor Exclusions

Not everyone who discusses money or investments is considered an investment advisor. This blog breaks down key exemptions for professionals like publishers, family offices, and those offering non-securities advice—and highlights how crossing certain lines can trigger SEC oversight.


Sports & Gaming
Sports Betting & Fantasy Sports Regulation Map

A map displaying the overlap between sports betting and fantasy sports regulation in the US presented by VW Partner Kevin Vela at the SBC Summit Americas in May 2025.


Corporate Governance
All Startups Should Be C Corps, But Not Necessarily In Delaware

In this blog, we discuss why C corps remain the best choice for startups seeking venture capital and explore recent court decisions that have made Delaware a less obvious choice for incorporation, prompting companies to consider alternatives like Texas and Nevada.


Corporate Governance
Venture in the Middle 2024 Trends

In 2024, VW saw a sharp rise in pay-to-play financing rounds, reflecting tougher conditions for both startups and investors. While the market experienced corrections in valuations, early-stage venture funding remained strong and Safe notes remained the dominant financing tool.


Funding & Capital Raising
Understanding 83(b) Elections: A Crucial Step for Startup Founders and Employees

If you’re a founder or an early employee at a startup, equity compensation is likely a significant part of your financial upside. However, the promise of equity can come with a maze of tax implications. Enter the 83(b) election: a relatively simple IRS filing that can save you thousands (or even millions) in taxes down the road. Despite its importance, many people overlook it—sometimes to their detriment.


Funding & Capital Raising
Venture in the Middle: Bridge Rounds in a Down Funding Environment

Venture financings are at a two-year low, which is predictable given the current state of the economy. But startups need capital even during downtimes, so bridge rounds tend to increase. Here are a few tips for navigating bridge rounds in a down funding environment.


Funding & Capital Raising
Comparing Convertible Instruments

In this blog, we explain the key similarities and differences between convertible notes and post-money Safes so you can understand the nuances between convertible instruments before you get to the negotiation table.


VW Abroad
What We Learned From A Month Working Abroad

Over half the firm and their families traveled to Lisbon, Portugal for Vela Wood’s first VW Abroad trip, and it was an astounding success. In this blog, we walk through the logistics of the trip as well as what went well and what we’ll do differently next time.