Why AI startups are selling the same equity at two different prices0

• AI, down rounds, Startups, valuation, Venture
• March 4, 2026

As competition among AI startups heats up, founders and VCs are turning to novel valuation mechanisms to manufacture a perception of market dominance. Until recently, the most sought-after companies raised multiple rounds of funding in quick succession at escalating valuations. However, because constant fundraising distracts founders from building their products, lead VCs have devised a