Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing responsibilities and risks associated with being a director in investment projects, particularly in light of recent legal changes and the rising issues surrounding buyback agreements in the venture capital (VC) industry [2][5][12]. Group 1: Legal Changes and Responsibilities - The new Company Law, effective from the second half of last year, has heightened the responsibilities of company directors, leading to unexpected legal consequences for many investors [2][3]. - Directors are now more likely to face legal actions related to buyback issues, which were previously overlooked during economic upswings [4][7]. Group 2: Buyback Issues - The article highlights a significant increase in buyback-related lawsuits, with over 90% of projects facing buyback claims involving founders as defendants [7][8]. - Many venture capitalists are now exploring flexible solutions to manage buyback obligations, including negotiating alternative agreements with founders [6][10]. Group 3: Systemic Problems in the VC Industry - The current wave of buyback demands is characterized as a systemic issue, influenced by market fluctuations and historical practices, necessitating collaborative solutions rather than blaming individual parties [12][13]. - The pressure from limited partners (LPs) on general partners (GPs) to resolve investment failures has intensified, leading to a cycle of litigation and forced liquidations [8][11]. Group 4: Legislative and Practical Responses - Some regions, like Hunan, are taking legislative steps to encourage investment without mandatory buyback clauses, aiming to alleviate the pressure on startups [6][13]. - The VC industry is witnessing a shift towards more transparent negotiations and better investment conditions, as some firms choose to forgo buyback clauses altogether [6][10].