Google Maps co-founder invests in Cypriot real estate analytics firm

Cypriot firm Ask Wire, a real estate data analytics company, which has provided its services to the Cyprus government, systemic banks, insurance companies and investors, this week announced that it has secured a strategic investment from Lars Rasmussen, a prominent figure in the technology industry.

Rasmussen is predominantly known for co-founding the company that evolved into Google Maps, after being acquired by Google in October 2004, as well as his role as the head of engineering at Facebook.

“Rasmussen will also be joining Ask Wire as a technology advisor overseeing the company’s expansion across the Balkans,” the company said in its statement.

Ask Wire explained that its mission is to help clients understand their properties through data, allowing them to base decisions on facts, automate decision-making, and productise advisory.

Moreover, the firm said it brings value to banks, insurers, real estate investors, and ESG-conscious stakeholders by empowering them with actionable insights.

Continuing, the announcement said that “by understanding properties through data, our clients can make better-informed decisions, enhance sales, manage risk, and streamline operations, leading to innovative real estate strategies and solutions”.

Rasmussen stated that he is “thrilled to be part of a company that shares my vision for a more transparent and empowered world”.

“Ask Wire is at the forefront of using data to bring transparency to the real estate industry, and in doing so, it empowers people to make better-informed decisions,” he stated.

“The potential for positive impact is immense,” Rasmussen added.

Meanwhile, Pavlos Loizou, CEO of Ask Wire, stated that “with Lars on board, Ask Wire is poised for tremendous growth”.

“His guidance will be crucial as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology and seek to provide our customers with the best possible solutions,” the Ask Wire CEO explained.

“We are honoured to have him as part of our team and are confident that his involvement will help propel Ask Wire to new heights,” he concluded.