SVB (Silicon Valley Bank) experienced financial difficulties due to macroeconomic conditions and risks in its investment portfolio. As startups had excess cash and did not need loans, SVB invested heavily in government bonds. However, rising interest rates caused the value of these bonds to fall. SVB then faced a "bank run" as customers withdrew deposits, forcing SVB to seek an emergency $2 billion funding increase. The failure of SVB could significantly impact startups and their access to capital.