Jonathan Knee - The Platform Delusion and the Intricacies of Digital and Analog Platforms

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Jun 14, 2024

Jonathan Knee, a distinguished advisor at Evercore Partners and Professor at Columbia Business School, discusses the nuances of digital and analog platforms, network effects in tech giants like Meta and Google, strategic decisions of Apple, and the impact of generative AI on future market trends.

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Intro

00:00 • 6min

Passion for Academia and Teaching

05:40 • 2min

Exploring Platform Business Models and Competitive Advantage

07:52 • 31min

Analyzing Scale, Breakeven Economics, and Market Dynamics in Different Industries

38:32 • 4min

Navigating Fixed Costs and Industry Challenges in the New Economy

42:45 • 16min

Insights on Government-Business Dynamics and the Importance of Courage in Investing

58:37 • 5min

In today's discussion, Jonathan Knee, a distinguished advisor at Evercore Partners and Professor of Professional Practice of Media and Technology at Columbia Business School, explores the themes of his influential work, "The Platform Delusion." Jonathan's insights stem from a rich career in both the banking and academic sectors, bringing a nuanced perspective on digital versus analog platforms, competitive strategies, and the evolving landscape of technological advancements. The conversation uncovers the myths surrounding platform businesses and their impact on the economic principles that govern market dynamics. Jonathan also discusses the implications of regulatory frameworks and their intersection with business strategies in shaping industries and so much more!

Key Topics:

Jonathan Knee's background and expertise in media and technology (01:40)
The initial impetus behind writing "The Platform Delusion" and the misconceptions it addresses (13:14)
Definitions and the real economic underpinnings of platform businesses (17:52)
Competitive advantages and the robustness of network effects in digital platforms (35:02)
Exploring the sustainability of various business models within tech giants like Meta and Google against emerging technologies (44:51)
Insights into the strategic decisions that have fortified Apple's market position over the years (48:38)
The impact of generative AI on existing business ecosystems and future market trends (55:36)
Societal and technological transformations influencing today's business environment (58:55)
Jonathan’s book recommendations (01:01:30)
And much more!

Mentioned in this Episode:

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