The Rundown 9/16/25: Is Canada Ready for the AI Boom? The Future of Blockchain & Tech in the North

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by John Ruffolo to dive into a wide range of topics affecting Canada’s economy, from energy and tech to blockchain. They discuss the government’s announcement of major projects like LNG Canada’s expansion and the critical need for nuclear energy. The conversation also touches on Canada's role in the global energy market, especially with the growing importance of renewables and the challenges of balancing carbon-based energy.

The episode shifts to AI and blockchain, exploring how Canada can stay competitive in the tech race. They also dive into the rise of stablecoins in Canada with Tetra Digital Group’s new Canadian peg stablecoin aimed at transforming B2B payments. Lastly, the episode examines the increasing presence of Canadian executives in U.S. tech companies and the risks of overvaluation in the AI startup space.

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LNG, Nuclear & Energy Future: Canada’s Next Big Steps (00:07:13)

Matt and John discuss the announcement of major energy projects in Canada, including LNG Canada’s expansion and the importance of investing in nuclear energy for the future.

Stablecoin Innovation: The Canadian Peg Stablecoin (00:15:01)

Tetra Digital Group in Calgary launches a Canadian peg stablecoin set to revolutionize B2B payments. John and Matt explore how it could impact Canada’s financial landscape.

Opendoor's New CEO: Canadian Leadership in U.S. Tech (00:18:25)

Opendoor appoints a Canadian executive as CEO, sparking a conversation about the growing influence of Canadian tech talent in major U.S. companies.

AI Valuations: Are We Heading for a Tech Crash? (00:25:39)

With the AI boom in full swing, Matt and John examine the potential for overvaluation and the risks of an AI bubble, echoing insights from Vinod Khosla on market “carnage.”

AI’s Future: Innovation or Overhype? (00:26:15)

Matt and John delve into the power law of investing, discussing how capital is flowing into AI and why only a few companies will win big while many others will fail.

Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo

Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1

Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/

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