David Ulevitch speaks with Ben Horowitz about what it means to lead the technology industry at scale, and the responsibilities that come with it. Following the firm’s largest-ever fundraise, they discuss how venture capital, technology, and national strategy are increasingly intertwined.

The conversation covers America’s role in the next technological revolution, from AI to advanced manufacturing, and why maintaining technological leadership is critical not just for economic growth, but for global influence. Horowitz also shares his perspective on working with government, supporting national security innovation, and building systems that give more people the opportunity to contribute.

They also discuss how venture capital is evolving, the shift toward larger firms and specialized strategies, and why optimism about technology, and its potential to improve lives, remains essential even amid growing skepticism.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:41 - Why America's Technology Dominance Matters for the World
04:04 - American Dynamism, AI & Catching Up to China
08:50 - The Anthropic Deal: What Really Happened
13:37 - Exporting American Dynamism to Our Allies
16:56 - Power, Responsibility & How a16z Serves Founders
18:58 - The State of Venture Capital & Why Most Firms Can't Scale
23:21 - The New Rules of Media
26:22 - America's AI Optimism Gap

Resources:
Follow Ben Horowitz on X: https://x.com/bhorowitz
Follow David Ulevitch on X: https://x.com/davidu

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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 http://a16z.com/disclosures.