Ali Yahya: Andreessen Horowitz – A16z Crypto Investment Thesis
When it comes to top-tier VCs, very few equal Andreessen Horowitz' (a16z) impressive portfolio, which stretches over both Web2 and Web3. Their crypto venture arm includes investments in most industry verticals, from infrastructure projects to NFTs and blockchain gaming. Constructing such a solid investment thesis requires conviction in the long-term prospects of the industry, as well as an influential network.
We were joined by Ali Yahya, GP at Andreessen Horowitz, to discuss about a16z structure, operations and investment thesis, as well as the broader crypto landscape and value proposition.
Topics discussed in this episode:
0:00 - Introduction
0:46 - Ali’s background
6:47 - Why Google didn’t embrace crypto
10:08 - a16z’s team structure
20:08 - The role of a GP in a VC
22:17 - a16z’s thesis when it comes to crypto investing
31:05 - Which crypto niches Ali is most bullish on
46:07 - Governance vs. platform risk
50:05 - Valuation-based investments
59:23 - Protocol revenue and monetary premium for L1s
1:03:34 - Token vs. Equity
1:07:56 - How to prevent banking crisis contagion for crypto projects
Links mentioned in this episode:
Ali Yahya on Twitter: bit.ly/3VteI3L
a16z crypto: bit.ly/3HD9KvJ
a16z: bit.ly/3LQhVY6
This episode is hosted by Sebastien Couture & Meher Roy. Show notes and listening options: https://epicenter.tv/494