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:
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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

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