FYI - For Your Innovation

ARK Invest

The FYI - For Your Innovation Podcast offers an intellectual discussion on recent developments across disruptive innovation—driven by research, news, controversies, companies, and technological breakthroughs. Hosted by ARK Invest, ARK and guests provide a unique perspective on how to best understand disruptive innovation.

  1. 7H AGO

    The Great Labor Shuffle | The Brainstorm EP 121

    In this episode of The Brainstorm, Brett, Nick, and Sam dissect how industry giants like Block are slashing 40% of their workforce overnight while accelerating AI adoption, challenging everything you thought you knew about employment, productivity, and economic growth. You’ll discover the real reason behind Jack Dorsey’s massive layoffs, surprising data on revenue-per-employee ratios, and the shift from tools to agentic systems. If you know ARK, then you probably know about our long-term research projections, like estimating where we will be 5-10 years from now! But just because we are long-term investors, doesn’t mean we don’t have strong views and opinions on breaking news. In fact, we discuss and debate this every day. So now we’re sharing some of these internal discussions with you in our new video series, “The Brainstorm”, a co-production from ARK and Wolf.financial, and sponsored by Public. Tune in every week as we react to the latest in innovation. Here and there we’ll be joined by special guests, but ultimately this is our chance to join the conversation and share ARK’s quick takes on what’s going on in tech today. Key Points From This Episode: Anthropic's recent conflict with the Department of War over the use of their Claude model highlights the complexities of AI governance and the impact of political stances on market positioning.The rapid downsizing of high-performing companies suggests that AI-driven efficiency gains are fundamentally disruptive, challenging traditional notions of organizational scale.Prediction markets face challenges with transparency and insider trading, but they hold long-term potential for providing real-time intelligence and liquidity in equity markets. To learn more about WOLF: https://wolf.financial To learn more about Public: https://public.com/

    30 min
  2. 6D AGO

    The AI-Powered Brokerage: Public’s Vision For Agentic Investing

    In this episode of FYI, Brett Winton and Nick Grous sit down with Leif Abraham, co-founder and co-CEO of Public. They examine how the brokerage landscape is shifting as digital-native investors seek more sophisticated tools, and why Public is focused on the top quartile of earners positioned to compound wealth. Leif discusses agentic AI workflows, generated assets, platform design trade-offs, prediction markets, and how Public is balancing short-term monetization with long-term customer lifetime value. Key Points From This Episode:  00:00:00 Public’s positioning in the modern brokerage landscape 00:07:17 The K-shaped economy and focusing on the top quartile 00:09:04 Building a “serious” financial service centered on trust 00:10:06 Product depth vs. simplification in brokerage design 00:11:00 Generated Assets: prompting AI-built custom portfolios 00:13:21 Digital natives as hybrid self-directed investors 00:15:04 How AI is transforming internal product development 00:19:55 Launching agentic workflows for money movement and trading 00:23:38 Compressing the distance from idea to execution 00:27:34 Guardrails, approvals, and trust in AI-driven execution 00:30:26 Short-term trading revenue vs. long-term lifetime value 00:33:32 Agents as retention and lock-in strategy 00:35:05 Replacing financial advisors: automation, advice, and emotion 00:37:54 Tokenization and private asset access 00:40:40 Prediction markets and avoiding sports betting 00:45:55 Building the last investing account customers ever open Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

    51 min
  3. FEB 25

    Will Robots Take Our Jobs? | The Brainstorm EP 120

    In this episode of The Brainstorm, Brett, Nick, and Sam debate the implications of humanoid robots and AI on society, focusing on themes such as technological unemployment, the competition between the US and China in robotics, and the future of work in an increasingly automated world. They explore whether humanoid robots are overhyped or underhyped, the economic implications of AI, and the role of humans in a future dominated by automation. The discussion is punctuated by viewer questions, adding depth to the exploration of these pressing topics.  If you know ARK, then you probably know about our long-term research projections, like estimating where we will be 5-10 years from now! But just because we are long-term investors, doesn’t mean we don’t have strong views and opinions on breaking news. In fact, we discuss and debate this every day. So now we’re sharing some of these internal discussions with you in our new video series, “The Brainstorm”, a co-production from ARK and Wolf.financial, and sponsored by Public. Tune in every week as we react to the latest in innovation. Here and there we’ll be joined by special guests, but ultimately this is our chance to join the conversation and share ARK’s quick takes on what’s going on in tech today. Key Points From This Episode: Humanoid robots are gaining attention, especially from China.Technological unemployment is often overstated; historical examples show job creation.AI and robotics can enhance productivity rather than eliminate jobs.The future of humanoid robots is uncertain in the short term but promising long term. To learn more about WOLF: https://wolf.financial To learn more about Public: https://public.com/

    30 min
  4. FEB 13

    Is SaaS Dead? | The Brainstorm EP 119

    In this episode of The Brainstorm, Brett, Nick, and Sam are joined by Frank Downing to discuss the current state of the Software-As-A-Service (SaaS) industry, exploring whether it is dead or simply undergoing a transformation due to AI advancements. They delve into the competitive landscape, pricing power, and the challenges faced by traditional SaaS companies. The discussion also touches on the innovator's dilemma in the context of AI and how it affects companies' willingness to disrupt their own business models. Finally, they examine the dynamics of the crypto market and the shift towards institutional adoption. If you know ARK, then you probably know about our long-term research projections, like estimating where we will be 5-10 years from now! But just because we are long-term investors, doesn’t mean we don’t have strong views and opinions on breaking news. In fact, we discuss and debate this every day. So now we’re sharing some of these internal discussions with you in our new video series, “The Brainstorm”, a co-production from ARK and Wolf.financial, and sponsored by Public. Tune in every week as we react to the latest in innovation. Here and there we’ll be joined by special guests, but ultimately this is our chance to join the conversation and share ARK’s quick takes on what’s going on in tech today. Key Points From This Episode: AI is reshaping the SaaS landscape.Competition in SaaS is increasing due to new entrants.The innovator's dilemma remains a challenge for established firms.Crypto markets are maturing with institutional interest. To learn more about WOLF: https://wolf.financial To learn more about Public: https://public.com/

    34 min
  5. FEB 12

    Building The Interoperable Future Of Crypto With LayerZero

    In this episode, ARK’s Cathie Wood and Brett Winton speak with Bryan Pellegrino and Simon Baksys of LayerZero, a leading interoperability protocol aiming to unify fragmented blockchain environments. The conversation covers LayerZero’s origins, the evolving landscape of crypto infrastructure, and the expanding role of stablecoins and tokenized assets. Bryan shares his personal journey from professional poker to crypto entrepreneur, and how LayerZero emerged from a need for seamless cross-chain communication. Together, they explore the trade-offs in blockchain scaling, institutional adoption of crypto, and how LayerZero could power a future shaped by AI agents and global, permissionless finance. Key Points From This Episode:  (00:02:55) Bryan Pellegrino’s path from poker to crypto infrastructure (00:06:31) Why interoperability is critical in a multi-chain world (00:10:36) Institutional adoption and the trade-offs in decentralization (00:13:09) The rise of Layer 2s and the compromises in blockchain scalability (00:16:34) The future of chain proliferation vs. reconsolidation (00:23:22) How LayerZero works from a user perspective (00:31:43) Winning market share and competitive dynamics in bridging (00:43:13) AI x Blockchain: Enabling agentic commerce and microtransactions (00:49:34) Stablecoins as bottom-up globalization and financial empowerment (00:54:04) How LayerZero is becoming the default stablecoin infrastructure (01:02:57) Final thoughts: Stablecoins, tokenization, and AI agents converging Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

    1h 5m
  6. FEB 5

    Leading With Purpose: Personal, Professional And Planet

    In this episode, ARK CEO and CIO Cathie Wood sits down with Stefanie Drews, the newly appointed CEO of Amova (formerly Nikko Asset Management). Together, they explore the evolution of a decade-long partnership that helped shape both firms — and delve into Stefanie’s remarkable leadership journey as a woman at the helm of a global asset manager. From Amova’s recent strategic expansion in Asia to Stefanie's philosophy of integrating personal, professional, and purpose-driven goals, this conversation blends business insight with human depth. Stefanie also shares how her experiences as a single mother, an environmental advocate, and a structured leader have shaped the way she builds companies and raises a family — simultaneously, and without compromise. Key Points From This Episode:[00:00] Introduction — Cathie Wood introduces Stefanie Drews and Amova’s significance to ARK[02:00] Why “Amova”? The origin and meaning behind the rebrand[06:50] How ARK and Amova (formerly Nikko) first connected — a webinar, a cold call, and early alignment[10:30] Japan’s surprising appetite for innovation and thematic investing[15:00] Fintech’s rapid uptake in Asia and ARK’s early research shifts[16:15] Misconceptions about Japanese retail investors and their sophistication[18:45] Social media, translation, and virality of ARK’s research in Japan[20:00] Amova’s expansion into Southeast Asia: Malaysia, digital wealth, and private equity[22:00] Six-part growth strategy and ticking boxes for Amova’s 10-year global plan[29:20] Stefanie's leadership philosophy: raising children with structure, empathy, and independence[31:25] Career stumbles and moral realignment: learning to face yourself and course-correct[34:10] What’s next? Stefanie on continuous progress, purpose, and leading with intent Amova Asset Management (“Amova”) is a current client of ARK Investment Management LLC (“ARK Invest”) in its capacity as a sub-adviser. Amova is also a compensated promoter for ARK Invest. Amova has entered into an agreement with ARK Invest whereby ARK Invest has agreed to pay Amova a fee in exchange for Amova referring investors to ARK Invest’s ETFs. For its services to ARK Invest, Amova will receive 25% of the advisory fees received by ARK Invest for referred seed investors with respect to the initial seed investment. ARK Invest will also compensate Amova 25% of the advisory fees received by ARK Invest from referred investors other than seed investors in respect of the monthly holdings of each referred investor who has invested into one or more of ARK’s ETFs, excluding those of initial investments made by seed investors. The compensation arrangement will continue for so long as the referred investors remain invested in ARK’s ETFs. The advisory fees charged to the ETFs will not be affected by the fees paid to Amova, because Amova’s compensation will be paid solely from ARK Invest’s investment management fee. Amova and its representatives may also receive non-cash compensation from ARK Invest, such as attendance at events, entertainment and gifts. Receipt of cash and non-cash compensation influences Amova’s referral of investors to ARK Invest.  Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

    40 min
  7. FEB 4

    SpaceX And xAI Merge | The Brainstorm EP 118

    Elon Musk envisions a groundbreaking future where AI infrastructure in space revolutionizes cost, innovation, and competition. This episode explores how SpaceX's satellite ambitions could transform AI, potentially dwarfing terrestrial data centers. We delve into the strategic merging of SpaceX and xAI, revealing a blueprint for the next decade's tech race.  If you know ARK, then you probably know about our long-term research projections, like estimating where we will be 5-10 years from now! But just because we are long-term investors, doesn’t mean we don’t have strong views and opinions on breaking news. In fact, we discuss and debate this every day. So now we’re sharing some of these internal discussions with you in our new video series, “The Brainstorm”, a co-production from ARK and Wolf.financial, and sponsored by Public. Tune in every week as we react to the latest in innovation. Here and there we’ll be joined by special guests, but ultimately this is our chance to join the conversation and share ARK’s quick takes on what’s going on in tech today. Key Points From This Episode: Elon Musk's vision of space-based AI infrastructure aims to drastically reduce costs and accelerate innovation, positioning it as a game-changer in the tech industry.SpaceX's satellite initiatives are not just about communication but are pivotal in creating a space-powered AI ecosystem that could surpass terrestrial data centers.The strategic integration of SpaceX and xAI is set to redefine the AI landscape, offering a blueprint for the next decade's technological advancements. To learn more about WOLF: https://wolf.financial To learn more about Public: https://public.com/

    50 min
  8. FEB 3

    Bitcoin’s Next Era: Digital Gold, Stablecoins, And Freedom Tech

    Since inception, ARK has researched and published thoughts on the cryptocurrency ecosystem within Big Ideas and through articles, whitepapers, monthly Bitcoin reports and podcasts. Now, in coordination with Bitcoin Park, ARK is pleased to introduce a monthly conversation with leaders in the Bitcoin space, to discuss everything happening in the rapidly-changing and still nascent Bitcoin ecosystem. Published through the For Your innovation podcast channels, this monthly series aims to be informative and enlightening, including experts with diverse viewpoints.   In this episode, Cathie Wood and guests reflect on ARK’s decade-long Bitcoin journey—from early research to its prominent role in Big Ideas 2026—and debate Bitcoin’s evolving thesis amid shifting macro conditions. The conversation distinguishes Bitcoin as “freedom technology” versus stablecoins as more “humanitarian” but censorable tools, while exploring institutional adoption, emerging-market use cases, and gold’s relationship to Bitcoin as a hedge. The group then pivots to the convergence of Bitcoin, AI, and decentralized social (Noster), highlighting “vibe coding,” open-source acceleration, and the rise of autonomous agents—ending with a forward-looking vision of 2030 shaped by autonomous mobility, healthcare breakthroughs, and expanding digital/space frontiers. Guests on this month’s Bitcoin Brainstorm include:   Lorenzo Valente: Director of Digital Assets, ARK InvestAlex Gladstein: Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Human Rights Foundation (HRF) Tuur Demeester: Founder, Adamant CapitalAlex Gleason: Open-source developer / Soapbox developer; formerly Head of Engineering at Truth Social.Rapha Zagury: Founder and CEO, Elektron EnergyCathie Wood: Founder, CEO and CIO at ARK Invest Rod Roudi: Founder, Bitcoin Park    Key Points From This Episode: (0:00) Intro disclaimer(1:04) Flashback: ARK’s 2016 Bitcoin white paper(2:33) Bitcoin in Big Ideas — a 10-year evolution(7:49) Bitcoin vs. stablecoins: freedom tech vs. humanitarian tech(12:23) Personal stories: Brazil, inflation, and Bitcoin’s role(17:14) Tuur on Bitcoin cycles, gold correlation, and price thesis(26:37) Convergence: Bitcoin, AI, and decentralized social(31:41) New renaissance: vibe coding, AI agents, and entrepreneurship(34:24) Open source, Claude bots, and encrypted personal AI(46:44) Autonomous agents exchanging Bitcoin(48:19) Dreaming of 2030: freedom tech and decentralization(52:17) Bitcoin mining, energy, and infrastructure(56:11) Cathie: AI’s biggest opportunities — mobility and healthcare  Learn more about Bitcoin Park: bitcoinpark.com   Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)

    1h 1m

About

The FYI - For Your Innovation Podcast offers an intellectual discussion on recent developments across disruptive innovation—driven by research, news, controversies, companies, and technological breakthroughs. Hosted by ARK Invest, ARK and guests provide a unique perspective on how to best understand disruptive innovation.

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