FYI - For Your Innovation

On this episode of FYI, Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous and Analyst Andrew Kim sit down with Matthew Warneford, the mind behind Dubit. Over the past two decades, Dubit has transformed from its humble beginnings into a pioneer of virtual fashion within gaming platforms like Roblox. Warneford shares the journey of Dubit, shedding light on the early days of online multiplayer gaming and the evolution into crafting digital identities through fashion. Warneford discusses how brands are leveraging platforms like Roblox to engage with a younger audience through immersive retail experiences rather than traditional marketing strategies. Join us at the intersection of technology, fashion, and commerce to learn how these elements are forging a new path for both virtual and real-world business models.Key Points From This EpisodeThe origin of Dubit from multiplayer gaming roots to pioneering virtual fashionEvolution of digital identity and its growing focus on the identity aspect rather than functionalityHow brands like Adidas are using platforms like Roblox for immersive retailRoblox’s dual retail model: web/app-based catalogs and 3D in-game storesThe strategy behind embedding stores within popular games to drive sales Enhancing customer engagement and sales within virtual platformsThe emergence of virtual commerce User-generated 3D content as the next significant trend powered by generative artificial intelligence (AI)Challenges and opportunities of brand differentiation in digital spaces

Will ChatGPT replace Siri on your iPhone? This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by ARK Chief Futurist Brett Winton to discuss the latest AI breakthroughs and potential partnerships in the industry.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 Public.com. 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:OpenAI released a new modelA discussion of further AI breakthroughs Apple could partner with OpenAIFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

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.Guests on this month’s Bitcoin Brainstorm include:Will Reeves: CEO, FoldMark (Murch) Erhardt: Research Engineer, Chaincode LabsHarry Sudock: Chief Strategy Officer, GRIIDMike Colyer: CEO, FoundryYassine Elmandjra: Director of Digital Assets, ARK Invest Cathie Wood: Founder, CEO and CIO, ARK InvestRod Roudi: Co-Founder, Bitcoin ParkKey Points From This Episode:00:01:00 Rod introduces the Bitcoin Brainstorm and hands over the floor to each of our fantastic guests00:05:29 What does this bitcoin halving represent as symbolic of bitcoin as a monetary system00:11:28 Bitcoin’s monetary policy is really just five lines of code00:27:27 Why, to understand bitcoin, you have to move out of the realm of human invention and into the world of physics and math to find things that have this level of predictability00:32:10 How bitcoin mining pools shifted from a Chinese dominated space to a more decentralized business and what can be done to continue decentralization00:39:34 How do companies like Foundry, a mining pool, and GRIID, a bitcoin miner, work together and what is Stratum V2?00:49:10 Could generative artificial intelligence (AI) be helpful in bitcoin development and bitcoin mining?00:53:49 Why one of bitcoin’s biggest benefits is its probabilistic protocol and that the asset class cannot be “gamed”00:56:35 Why the Gamestop short squeeze during the pandemic reminds Harry of bitcoin01:01:28 With a Bitcoin epoch people usually mean a period of roughly 4 years with a specific mining reward. With a bitcoin halving just behind us, what do our guests expect to happen in this next epoch?Links Mentioned in this Episode:Learn more about Bitcoin Park: bitcoinpark.com

Are you worried about robots taking over? This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by ARK Multiomics Research Associate Rong Guo to discuss CRISPR gene editing and the new Tesla Optimus robots.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 Public.com. 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 revolutionizing CRISPR gene editing Tesla presented impressive innovations in their Optimus robot platformFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

On this episode of FYI, Director of Next Generation Internet Research Frank Downing and Analyst Ali Urman interview Dr. Issam El Naqa, the founding chair of the Department of Machine Learning at the Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. El Naqa shares his journey from electrical engineering to spearheading innovative uses of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical physics and oncology. This episode explores how AI technologies not only support but significantly enhance diagnostic and treatment processes in healthcare, particularly in the complex field of oncology. Tune in as we examine the practical and potential applications of AI in transforming patient care and treatment efficiency."What the algorithm is going to do is going to look at the history of similar patients that went through that process. We recognize every patient is unique. Every patient needs may be different. And this is where there is a lot of uncertainty with the prediction that their algorithm is going to do it." - Dr. El NaqaKey Points From This Episode:Dr. El Naqa's transition from electrical engineering to medical physicsThe integration of AI in enhancing diagnostic imaging and treatment planningAI's role in medical physics, historically and presentlyDiscussion on the evolution of AI tools in medical applicationsExamining AI's effectiveness in non-invasive cancer treatmentsHow AI supports personalized patient care in oncologyAI in the optimization of medical processes and patient managementFuture perspectives on AI's role in healthcare from Dr. El NaqaThe balance between AI capabilities and human expertise in medicine

This week is all about Tesla. Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by ARK Director of Investment Analysis and Institutional Strategy Tasha Keeney to debrief on Tesla's latest earnings call and discuss their financial future.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 Public.com. 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:Tesla is pushing forward on autonomous technologyRobotaxi may face some roadblocksFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

Is open source really better for everyone? This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by ARK Research Associate Jozef Soja to discuss Meta's Llama 3 and the current state of open source AI models.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 Public.com. 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:Meta announces Llama 3 open source AI modelThoughts on the state of AI models and whether they should be open sourceFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

On this episode of FYI, Associate Portfolio Manager Nicholas Grous, ARK Advisor Angie Dalton and Analyst Andrew Kim, speak with Joe Ferencz, CEO and founder of Gamefam. They explore the potentially transformative role of Gamefam in the metaverse, discussing its development from humble beginnings to becoming a premier entity in virtual environments for Gen Z and Alpha generations. Joe shares his extensive experience in graphic design and leadership roles at major companies before venturing into the metaverse through Gamefam. The conversation highlights strategic partnerships, the critical role of live operations, and the growing importance of brands in virtual spaces. Insights into Gamefam's innovative approaches and future ambitions in the evolving gaming landscape are discussed, showcasing how they are shaping new entertainment paradigms.Key Points From This Episode:Joe’s extensive background in gaming and pop cultureThe origin and rapid growth of Gamefam as a leader in the metaverse media spaceInsights into Gamefam's strategies for brand partnerships and intellectual property (IP) integrations within RobloxThe role of live operations in maintaining dynamic and engaging gaming environmentsJoe's perspective on future trends in the metaverse and user-generated content (UGC) platformsGamefam's approach to monetization and advertising within gaming platformsDiscussion on the potential of UGC platforms to revolutionize entertainmentThe challenges and strategies of integrating traditional gaming elements into the metaverseJoe's vision for Gamefam's role in the future of digital and interactive mediaThe technical and creative aspects of developing games in the metaverse

AI, AI, AI, oh my! This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous discuss all things Artificial Intelligence, from generative AI music creation to AI wearables.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 Public.com. 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:Is generative AI changing music creation?Thoughts on the Humane AI PinFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

On this episode of FYI, ARK Multiomics analyst Nemo Marjanovic sits down with Professor George Church, a renowned geneticist and entrepreneur from Harvard. They discuss the evolution of genomic sequencing technologies, the intersection of genomics and blockchain for privacy, and the fascinating potential of DNA for data storage. They delve into multiomic approaches for enhanced biological understanding, the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical advancements, and George's groundbreaking research on aging. Key Points From This Episode:Evolution of genomic sequencing: from short to long readsBalancing privacy with blockchain in genomicsThe potential of DNA as a universal data storage mediumAdvancements and challenges in writing DNA for data encodingThe growing importance and integration of multiomic approachesHow AI and high-throughput screening revolutionize drug discoveryInsights into startups from George's lab leveraging machine learning and multiomicsRevolutionary research on aging: targeting multiple pathways simultaneouslyThe concept of protective gene therapies against all virusesEmerging technologies in genome synthesis and developmental biology

Are we at a precipice for nuclear energy development? This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by Autonomous Tech & Robotics Research Associate Daniel Maguire to discuss energy development and the regulations that are plaguing it, as well as recent shifts in the EV industry.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 Public.com. 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:Regulations are slowing nuclear energy developmentThe EV landscape is changingFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

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. Guests on this month’s Bitcoin Brainstorm include: Max Guise: Bitcoin Wallet Lead, BlockTyler Campbell: VP, Custody Support, UnchainedRob Hamilton: Co-Founder and CEO, Anchor WatchRick Schonberg: Head of Custody, Foundations and Trading, CoinbaseNVK: CEO, CoinkiteYassine Elmandjra: Director of Digital Assets, ARK Invest Cathie Wood: Founder, CEO and CIO, ARK InvestRod Roudi: Co-Founder, Bitcoin Park Key Points From This Episode: 00:01:00 Rod introduces the Bitcoin Brainstorm and hands over the floor to each of our fantastic guests00:12:48 Bitcoin custody represents a significant paradigm shift in how people control their assets00:16:36 Bitcoin as an open source software has embedded immutable property rights 00:24:53 How is Coinbase navigating the spectrum of custody from self-directed users to institutional players?00:31:19 Why might multisig, or multisignature, be important for bitcoin custody?00:37:00 Why bitcoin is not just digital gold, but it is also programmable money00:46:39 NVK gives a brief overview of bitcoin transaction fees00:54:39 What are some of the regulatory and compliance barriers that custody providers are facing?01:00:45 The bifurcation in bitcoin between the self-sovereign users of bitcoin and the more regulated portions of the industry01:04:11 Countries are now offering tax relief to attract early investors in bitcoin that have significant gains on their digital assets01:06:44 What does bitcoin custody look like in the next 10 years? Links Mentioned in this Episode:ARK Invest x Coinbase 2017 report: https://ark-invest.com/white-papers/bitcoin-a-new-asset-class-white-paperLearn more about Bitcoin Park: bitcoinpark.comSearch “Bitcoin Park” in your favorite podcasting app and subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bitcoin-park/id1646515985

On this episode, CEO and CIO Cathie Wood and Chief Investment Strategist Charlie Roberts sit down with entrepreneur Peter Diamandis to explore the forefront of healthcare innovation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the evolving role of digital assets like bitcoin. Diamandis, known for his contributions to space exploration, longevity, and breakthrough technologies, shares his insights on extending the health span, the transformative potential of genome sequencing, and the convergence of AI and robotics in shaping our future. With a keen eye on the financial markets and investment trends, he also delves into the resurgence of bitcoin and its positioning as a foundational layer of the new wave of money. Join us as Peter offers a compelling look at why he believes the future is brighter than we think, underscored by the rapid pace of innovation and the opportunities it presents for a healthier, wealthier, and more technologically advanced world.Key Points From This Episode:Differentiating healthcare from sick care and the focus on health span extensionThe significance of genome sequencing and editing in longevity and healthPeter Diamandis' journey in longevity, mentioning various technological advancesThe potential and implications of AI, robotics, and their convergence in future technologiesDiscussion on the financial markets, investment trends, and the impact of biotechInsights into Bitcoin's resurgence and its role as a digital financial layerThe debate on the pace of AI development and ethical considerationsFuture predictions for AI applications and the transformative potential of BitcoinReflections on the importance of investing in innovation and the future's technological landscape

Are we at a pivot point for the gaming industry? This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by Next Generation Internet Director of Research Frank Downing to discuss the recent NVIDIA announcements as well as shifts in the gaming industry.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 Public.com. 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:NVIDIA announces exciting new AI related productsGaming may be having it's "YouTube moment"For more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

On this episode of FYI, hosts Nemo Marjanovic and Charles Roberts speak with Professor Dr. Michael Snyder, a leading figure in genomics and personalized medicine. The discussion traverses Snyder's work in genomics, systems biology, and the utilization of wearables for health monitoring. Professor Snyder outlines the potential of comprehensive multiomics analysis and artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting and preventing diseases, emphasizing the integration of lifestyle modifications and technology in extending human longevity. The conversation also covers the challenges and future directions of personalized medicine, offering insights into remote monitoring, longitudinal health tracking, and the critical role of data in transforming healthcare from reactive to proactive."Wearables...measuring you 24/7...We realized they're pretty powerful health monitors...and they'll measure way more than that...seeing shifts. We put too much emphasis on absolute value." -@SnyderShotKey Points From This Episode: Professor Snyder's journey into genomics and the inception of systems biologyGenomics in medicine: predictive and preventive careThe role of AI and machine learning (ML) in unraveling complex genetic diseasesLeveraging wearables for continuous health monitoring and disease predictionThe importance of longitudinal data in understanding individual health trajectoriesRemote monitoring and micro-sampling: the future of healthcareImpact of lifestyle choices on health and disease preventionThe potential of the human cell atlas and spatial methods in pathologyChallenges of integrating comprehensive omics data into clinical practiceThe vision for a future where healthcare is personalized, predictive, and preventive

We are one step closer to Mars! This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous are joined by ARK Research Associate Lorenzo Valente to discuss Ethereum's new Dencun upgrade as well as the recent launch of the SpaceX Starship.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 Public.com. 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:Ethereum's Dencun upgradeSpaceX Starship launchFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

On this episode of "For Your Innovation," we engage with Don Burnette, founder and CEO of Kodiak Robotics, to explore their journey and aspirations of autonomous trucking. With insights into Kodiak's unique approach to overcoming the industry's challenges, the episode delves into the technological advancements and strategic partnerships that propel the company forward. Emphasizing proprietary data's pivotal role and innovative strategies for safety and redundancy, the conversation sheds light on how Kodiak is navigating the future of transportation. This episode offers a glimpse into the readiness of autonomous trucking technology for deployment, potentially starting a new era of efficiency and safety on the roads."Our trucks can drive almost 24/7, whereas manually driven trucks are limited by hours of service. So, each driver is limited to about 11 hours per day. But on average, trucks are only moving in a useful way for about seven hours per day. So, the trucks are very underutilized today and we can nearly triple that asset utilization, which allows the companies to effectively triple their revenues. For the same number of assets, right?" - @don_burnetteKey Points From This Episode:Introduction to Don Burnette and Kodiak Robotics' mission in autonomous truckingThe evolution of Don's career from Google to founding Kodiak RoboticsDiscussion on the importance of proprietary data in advancing autonomous truckingKodiak's approach to real-time perception over traditional mapping for navigationHighlighting the significance of Kodiak's 2.5 million miles of driverless dataThe role of partnerships in developing and deploying autonomous trucking solutionsThe strategic advantage of not relying on predefined maps for route navigationKodiak's innovative strategies for safety and redundancy in driverless technologyThe impact of AI advancements on Kodiak's autonomous driving technologyFuture outlook and the readiness of autonomous trucking technology for deployment

Rivian has resurrected Steve Job's "One More Thing..." This week, Autonomous Technology and Robotics Director of Research Sam Korus and Associate Portfolio Manager Nick Grous discuss the launch of not one, not two, but three new Rivian's as well as Starlink's new direct-to-device service.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 Public.com. 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:Rivian Launches Three New VehiclesStarlink Has a New Direct-to-device ServiceFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public

This episode of FYI features a compelling conversation with former NBA stars turned tech investors Andre Iguodala and Evan Turner. Hosted by ARK CEO and CIO Cathie Wood, the discussion traverses their journey from the basketball court to the boardroom, shedding light on their transition into venture capital. Both guests share insights into the importance of financial literacy, leveraging their sports platform to influence and engage in tech startups, and the significance of mentorship and networking in navigating the venture capital space. Their stories reflect a broader narrative on the convergence of sports, innovation, and entrepreneurship, highlighting how athletes increasingly become pivotal figures in the tech ecosystem.Key Points From This Episode:Early curiosity and intellectual pursuitsTransitioning from competitive teammates to lifelong friends and business partnersChallenges and stereotypes faced as young professional athletesThe journey from the basketball court to the venture capital arenaThe significance of mentorship and financial literacy in their careersEmphasis on community impact and responsible investmentExploration of tech startups and the value of education in their venturesThe role of networking in accessing venture capital opportunitiesThe importance of leveraging their platform for tech engagementReflections on personal growth and the impact of their investments

Who will win the AI race? This week, Nick and Sam are joined by ARK's Chief Futurist, Brett Winton, as they review current competitors within the AI space and expose some downsides and advantages to various platforms.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 Public.com. 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 set to dramatically boost worker productivityA discussion around Klarna's new assistantGoogle faces challenges innovating in the AI spaceFor more updates on Public.com:Website: https://public.com/YouTube: @publicinvestTwitter: https://twitter.com/public