Isn't it like super hard to setup a startup in France? That being said, the talent coming out of all the grandes ecoles seems definitely underutilized.
It's been getting way easier each year. This book[1] by Criteo's founder explores the question in details.
> the talent coming out of all the grandes ecoles seems definitely underutilized
I'm really not sure what you're hinting at here, though. Some of the concerned people will choose more relaxed jobs over intensive ones, but that's a personal lifestyle choice, and not really frowned upon.
1: "They Told Me It Was Impossible: The Manifesto of the Founder of Criteo" https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=_gA0DQAAQBAJ
I got ripped off at the first two startups I worked for but learned my lessons.
Don't be busy, create obvious value along the actual company line.
You're most likely not working for the founders, it's really the stakeholders and at least some of these have money. Make sure the money is found for your salary (believe me they find the money for the lawyers).
Be prepared to move if necessary.
It's an uneasy compromise at first, but eventually it becomes clear the best interest is not having the best employees constantly flirting with a healthy stream of recruiters.
But when a new grad from a top school can get 40k at a startup, no bonus no equity, or 70-80k total comp at Google, it's a no-brainer.
The reason he chooses salary over equity is because it's a safer bet.
It seriously hedges your personal risk.