Power, Protocols & Post-Scarcity: Where Venture Capital Goes Next

In episode 11 of The Outside Context, Rob Hadick, General Partner at Dragonfly, shares his journey from Wall Street to venture capital, discussing the evolving landscape of investment, particularly in the realms of blockchain and decentralised finance. He highlights the differences between traditional finance and the emerging tech-driven paradigms, emphasising the importance of networks and the changing role of VCs in a tighter funding environment. The discussion also shifts into geopolitical implications, the future of decentralisation, and the potential shifts in the global economic order, ultimately pondering the long-term future of venture capital in a rapidly changing world.

Key Takeaways

• Rob Hadick transitioned from Wall Street to venture capital, focusing on tech's disruption of finance.
• The investment landscape is shifting towards AI, blockchain, and biotech as key areas for growth.
• Venture capital is seeing a hollowing out of the middle, with mega funds dominating the market. 
• Decentralisation is becoming less of a priority for VCs, who are focusing on business viability.
• The future of VC may involve broader asset management strategies beyond traditional investments.
• Geopolitical tensions are influencing investment strategies and capital flows globally.
• The rise of digital currencies and stablecoins is reshaping the financial landscape.
• Investors are increasingly able to bootstrap companies without significant capital.
• The future economic order may see a consolidation of currencies and a shift in global power dynamics.
• Long-term, capital formation will remain essential, even in a post-scarcity world.

Connect with Us:

• Follow The Outside Context on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
• Connect with Rob Hadick on X @HadickM
• Follow Elise Soucie Watts and Jannah Patchay for more insights into the future of technology, civilisation & digital finance

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