a16z Crypto General Partners Ali Yahya, Arianna Simpson, and Erik Torenberg break down what’s actually working in crypto today - starting with the rise of stablecoins as a real-world payments layer. They discuss how stablecoins are being adopted by companies like Stripe and SpaceX, why regulatory shifts are opening new doors for crypto startups, and how AI and crypto are beginning to intersect.

They also cover:

The future of decentralized social networks
Where Ethereum, Solana, and others stand today
Misconceptions still holding the space back

A grounded conversation on what’s real, what’s hype, and where crypto’s finally finding traction.

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction to Crypto and AI

00:16 The Rise of Stable Coins

00:40 Current State of Crypto

02:02 Deep Dive into Stable Coins

07:39 Institutional and Consumer Adoption

22:09 The Future of Crypto and AI

29:13 Misconceptions and Policy Changes

33:06 Smart Contract Platforms

36:14 Closing Thoughts

Resources:

Find Ali on X: https://x.com/alive_eth

Find Arianna on X:

https://x.com/AriannaSimpson

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Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures

Welcome to The Diamond Life Mentor Podcast!