Bloomberg Talks Ark Investment CEO Cathie Wood Talks H-1B Visa Program
Sep 22, 2025
Cathie Wood, Founder and CEO of ARK Invest, shares her insights on the recent changes to the H-1B visa program, specifically the $100,000 application fee, and its implications for US companies seeking global talent. She also discusses how these regulations could push high-skilled workers to other countries. Furthermore, Wood highlights a rolling recovery driven by AI advancements and the significant capital expenditures by tech giants, alongside China's rapid tech development, signaling a shift away from commoditization.
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H-1B Move Is Geopolitical Negotiation
- The H-1B fee change looks like part of a broader negotiation focused on India rather than a permanent deterrent to talent inflow.
- Cathie Wood expects longer-term U.S. intent to keep foreign graduates and tech talent in the country despite the sudden announcement.
Impact Limited To New H-1B Visas
- The proclamation applies only to new H-1B visas, creating short-term disruption rather than an immediate mass exodus.
- Wood expects administration policy to ultimately favor bringing foreign students educated in the U.S. into the workforce.
Fee Hike Enables Global Talent Competition
- Higher H-1B fees create regulatory arbitrage opportunities for other countries to lure high-skilled talent.
- Wood warns other nations should