EUVC

E344 | EUVC | AI Fears, VC Returns, and UK Immigration Policy hosted by Dan Bowyer

Aug 23, 2024

In this engaging discussion, venture capitalists Alex McDonald and Mads Jensen, along with European VC expert Andreas, tackle pressing issues in the tech landscape. They explore the implications of the UK's rejection of a youth mobility scheme for talent and investment. The group debates rising AI fears, arguing the need for a balanced regulatory approach. They also delve into the rising number of startup shutdowns, linking it to a natural cycle, and discuss the 'silent recession' in VC, emphasizing the importance of a patient investment strategy.

37:47

Creator website

Episode guests

Andreas

Mads Jensen

Alex McDonald

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

The UK's rejection of the EU youth mobility scheme is seen as a missed economic opportunity that may hinder talent acquisition.

The rise in startup shutdowns is viewed as a natural cycle following increased formations, not a definitive sign of a recession.

Deep dives

Investment in Vernetia FC

Alex McDonald discusses his recent investment in Vernetia FC, facilitated by connections within the venture space, including Drake's manager. He highlights a unique opportunity that presented a solid business plan alongside reputable co-investors. This investment marks a notable shift as he has often regarded sports team ownership as risky due to typical financial losses associated with such endeavors. The club's recent promotion further adds to the excitement around his involvement in what he describes as a fashionable football club.

Intro

2min

Exploring Collaboration and Youth Mobility in European Venture Capital

5min

Navigating the UK Immigration and Tech Policy Dilemma

7min

Navigating AI Innovation and Regulation

13min

Silent Recession in Startups

9min

The Power of Strategic Partnerships in European Venture Capital

2min

The Seed: Weekly Tech & VC Roundup This week on The Seed:

Featuring insights from Alex McDonald (Sequel.co), Mads Jensen (SuperSeed), and Andreas (EUVC). Join us for a deep dive into the latest in tech, startups, and venture capital.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro and welcome
01:14 - Launch of The Seed podcast collaboration
05:14 - UK rejects EU youth mobility scheme: Missed opportunity or political maneuvering? Mads and Alex discuss the implications for talent and investment.
10:02 - AI fears on the rise: 56% of US firms now see AI as a potential risk. Alex argues against heavy-handed regulation, while Mads considers the need for oversight.
18:42 - California's proposed AI regulation: Discussing potential liability for model developers.
23:15 - Startup shutdowns up 60%: Alex provides context, suggesting it's part of a natural cycle following increased startup formation in 2021-2022.
25:33 - The "silent VC recession": Examining the recent 0.4% return in Q4 2023 after a two-year drought. Mads explains the industry's need to adjust to new realities.
31:54 - The value of patience in VC: Alex shares insights on why funds optimizing for quick returns often underperform in the long run.
36:22 - UK AI funding controversy: Discussing Labour's decision to scrap a £1.3B Conservative AI initiative.

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