Why is trust becoming the hardest currency in corporate venture capital? CVCs now differentiate not by cheque size, but by the strategic insight, commercial access and risk expertise they bring to early-stage companies. New data from the State of CVC 2025 report sets out what CVCs and founders must do to build perception, credibility and growth.

Reputation is now a key driver of investment decisions across venture capital, corporate venture capital, and family offices. In this blog, we examine how trust influences deal speed, valuation, and risk, and offer practical guidance for founders and investors navigating today’s reputation-first funding landscape.

In an era where misinformation spreads faster than facts, companies must be prepared to defend their reputation against targeted attacks—especially when they come from high-profile individuals with vast online influence. The recent controversy involving Elon Musk and Verizon’s $2.4 billion FAA contract is an example of how social media can be weaponised to undermine competitors. Musk’s comments on X (formerly Twitter) not only questioned Verizon’s technology but also influenced public perception, investor confidence, and even regulatory discussions.

This blog explores how corporate misinformation can harm corporate reputation, what businesses can learn from Verizon’s situation, and a structured approach to protecting public and stakeholder trust in the face of digital disinformation.