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Re:The Handshake Deal Protocol by ghshephard on Thursday March 14, 2013 @01:25PM (#5376364)
Numerous Reasons:

o Everyone has a mobile device at all times, trying to remember to carry cash and/pens is an extra step. Cash, in the valley, is not as ubiquitous as a phone. In fact, it's not as ubiquitous as a smart phone.

o Texting is instantaneous. In fact, when we're sitting at a table having a conversation, it's not unusual for some people to be texting each other instead of talking to avoid creating a break in the conversation / side conversation.

o Central, Secure, two-party tracking with SMS/WhatsApp/iMessage. Nice Audit trail as well, and you have it all handy on your phone to keep track of things. Nobody wants to deal with more little pieces of paper.

Re:The Handshake Deal Protocol by kirse on Thursday March 14, 2013 @01:57PM (#5376593)
OK people, I get it, you don't carry cash, etc etc. I'm just imagining myself using whatever I have on me to come to a quick agreement on a precise valuation and secure a solid "affirmative" from an investor, beyond a basic verbal agreement.

So whether that's scrawled on a dollar bill, transmitted officially via the "PG Handshake Protocol", or signed on your ass with a picture in the mirror for posterity... doesn't matter, have fun with it and get it done!

Re:The Handshake Deal Protocol by ghshephard on Thursday March 14, 2013 @06:52PM (#5378152)
Well, my arguments for Cash would be:

o Physical Tokens continue to have real value beyond the ephemerality of digital data.

o A scrawled signature is both somewhat of an validation of identification, plus, it's a somewhat more concrete step than just sending an email. There is ceremony around it.

o With a bit of thought, you can create a Mini-Term sheet that can be signed/counter signed.

o Sharpie on Dollar bill is harder to modify / change - particularly if you have a number of signatures that have been built up on it.

o That multi-signed dollar bill would have a lot of potency, particularly if you are able to assemble a top-tier investment group. Suitable for framing.