Jerry Yang (Yahoo Founder) – Brainstorm Tech Interview (Jul 2018)

Chapters

Abstract

Navigating the Future: Jerry Yang’s Expert Insights on Venture Capital, Quantum Computing, and the Evolution of the Internet

In a world rapidly transforming through technology, Jerry Yang, the co-founder of Yahoo, emerges as a pivotal figure in shaping the future of venture capital, emerging technologies, and the internet landscape. His journey from creating Yahoo to investing in groundbreaking ventures like Ame Cloud Ventures, Rigetti Computing, and ZipLine, unveils critical insights into the convergence of life science and IT, the rise of quantum computing, the evolution of the Chinese internet industry, and the challenges facing global tech companies. This article delves into Yang’s perspectives on these diverse yet interconnected domains, revealing how they are forging new paths in technology and society.

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Jerry Yang’s Venture into Venture Capital

Jerry Yang’s departure from Yahoo in 2012 marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career. With the establishment of Ame Cloud Ventures, his venture capital firm, Yang shifted his focus toward early-stage deep tech and deep science companies. This strategic move reflects his keen interest in transformative technologies while avoiding overly early-stage, experimental ventures.

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The Convergence of Life Science and IT

The convergence of life science and information technology stands as a prominent theme in Yang’s investment portfolio. Companies like Capella Bio and Recursion Pharma exemplify this trend, leveraging AI and machine learning to revolutionize drug discovery and tackle rare diseases. These advancements signify a profound shift in how technology impacts healthcare.

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The Quantum Computing Revolution

Yang’s venture capital portfolio places a strong emphasis on quantum computing, a frontier ripe with transformative potential. Rigetti Computing, a company founded by Chad Rigetti and backed by Yang, aims to build quantum computers that surpass traditional computation. The potential applications of quantum computing in scientific research and machine learning are immense, promising to redefine computational capabilities. Yang anticipates the achievement of quantum supremacy, a milestone that will herald a new era in computing, within the next decade.

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The Challenge of Quantum Computing Investment

Despite its transformative potential, quantum computing presents unique challenges for investors. The nascent stage of the technology and the uncertain economic returns associated with it pose significant hurdles. However, Yang sees promise in cloud-based quantum computing services, which could democratize access to this advanced technology and accelerate its adoption.

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Jerry Yang and ZipLine’s Life-Saving Innovation

Yang’s investment in ZipLine, a drone delivery service founded by Keller Rinaudo, underscores the real-world impact of technological innovation. ZipLine’s fixed-wing drones, powered by AI and capable of autonomous navigation, have revolutionized medical supply delivery in remote areas of Rwanda. These drones have played a pivotal role in delivering blood transfusions, essential for postpartum conditions, and other critical medical supplies, saving lives and improving maternal health outcomes. The success of ZipLine demonstrates the immense potential of technology to address pressing humanitarian challenges.

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Insights on the Evolution of the Chinese Internet Industry

Yang’s observations on the evolution of the Chinese internet industry offer valuable insights into the growth and success of Chinese tech giants. He witnessed the remarkable transformation of companies like Alibaba, Tencent, and Robinhood, which initially imitated Western models but later developed unique business strategies tailored to the local market. This adaptability and resilience have been instrumental in the meteoric rise of these companies.

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The State and Future of the Internet

Yang’s perspective on the internet’s evolution highlights the shift from an open, accessible space to a fragmented landscape shaped by national boundaries and the influence of tech giants. He emphasizes the need for continued investment in infrastructure and the complex relationship between tech industries and defense, underscoring the importance of corporate responsibility in supporting innovation.

Current State of the Internet:

– The Internet has become fragmented, with national sovereign boundaries and large technology companies influencing its structure.

– Its mainstream impact has affected every industry.

– The openness and accessibility of information that once defined the Internet are diminishing.

Challenges and Opportunities:

– Artificial intelligence (AI) offers significant potential but also poses substantial challenges.

– The tech industry must navigate the tension between defense support and addressing employees’ concerns about working on defense-related projects.

Infrastructure Investment:

– The success of companies like Amazon and Google is partly due to substantial infrastructure spending by governments and private entities.

– Yang expresses concern about the United States’ insufficient investment in future infrastructure development.

– He emphasizes the importance of infrastructure investment for innovation and the emergence of new industry leaders.

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Perspectives on Global Tech Companies and Innovation

In an era characterized by heightened surveillance and intricate regulations, Yang discusses the challenges confronting global tech companies, such as Google. He advocates for a balanced approach to work and life, emphasizing the significance of maintaining creativity and well-being in the face of relentless technological advancement. Additionally, Yang expresses concern over the cultural divide in AI development, calling for a global dialogue to harmonize differing values and beliefs in this rapidly evolving field.

Global Tech Companies:

– Global reach with employees and revenues beyond the U.S.

– Must comply with U.S. laws but have the advantage of global reach and can participate in debates.

Work-Life Balance:

– Advocates for improved work-life balance in creative and innovative industries.

– Emphasizes the benefits of a balanced approach for long-term innovation and creativity.

– Contrasts the holiday mentality and relaxation periods in the U.S. with the industrious, always-working culture in China.

AI and Cultural Differences:

– General intelligence (AGI) and human-like learning machines rely on human input.

– Different cultures have varying beliefs and values, influencing AI’s learning and decision-making.

– Calls for global dialogue to address scaled cultural differences as AI becomes more cognitive.

U.S. and Chinese AI Efforts:

– Acknowledges the strong AI efforts in the U.S.

– Expresses concern about the use of AI for surveillance and the cultural divide surrounding it.

– Encourages global dialogue to address these concerns and prevent potential conflicts.

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Conclusion

Jerry Yang’s journey from co-founding Yahoo to becoming a venture capitalist provides invaluable insights into the rapidly evolving world of technology. His experiences and perspectives highlight the intersection of life science and IT, the revolutionary potential of quantum computing, and the intricate evolution of the internet and global tech companies. As technology continues to reshape our world, Yang’s contributions and viewpoints offer a roadmap for navigating these transformative times.

Notes by: OracleOfEntropy