1. The article discusses a venture capital firm that appears to be challenging the traditional norms of the industry. This firm is not only taking board seats in the startups it invests in but is also backing rival startups, which is an unconventional approach. This strategy is seen as a way for the venture capital firm to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the market and diversify its portfolio.

2. The article highlights the potential benefits and risks of this approach. On the one hand, the venture capital firm's involvement in multiple startups within the same industry can provide valuable insights and help them make more informed investment decisions. However, this strategy also raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on the startups themselves, as they may feel pressured to share sensitive information with a backer that is also supporting their competitors.

3. The article suggests that this venture capital firm's approach is part of a broader trend in the industry, where some firms are seeking to challenge the traditional boundaries and norms in order to gain a competitive advantage. This shift could have significant implications for the startup ecosystem, as it may lead to changes in the way venture capital firms interact with and support the companies they invest in.