I think Buffer is creating a third way for startups in general. Everything i've seen and heard these guys do since launch has been unorthodox. They're outliers and I mean that as a big compliment!
My sentiments are: (1) love what they're doing and the path they're trailblazing (2) unsure how replicable it is for other companies (3) hoping for more companies/founders that leverage their initial success (combination of luck and skill) to further push the envelope on what is accepted and possible in this little corner of the world if ours.
The best leverage is to not need the financing, and one you get to that point, all sorts of possibilities open up. Great to see a wildly successful company show us what's possible if you have leverage.
I agree their financing path is unique to the way they've built their product and team, but I think parts of it can still be replicable to other startups. ie not gearing the whole future of the company towards the big exit, but using VC money to create a more organic route..
The best leverage is to not need the financing, and one you get to that point, all sorts of possibilities open up. Great to see a wildly successful company show us what's possible if you have leverage.