Good morning!

As 2026 dawns, companies would be wise to remember that being first to market no longer guarantees long-term success -- constant innovation and reinvention matter more than ever. Startups should double down on what makes them distinct -- deep customer engagement, in-person or community-focused experiences and meaningful brand identity -- while using 2025's lessons to streamline operations, but not at the expense of connection.

Also in today's issue: