INVESTOR DEBATE: ROUND I. ARE WE OVER-INDEXING ON PEOPLE & UNDER-INDEXING ON TECH?

The panel, including Sandeep from Process Ventures, Anu from Avra Fund, Carol from Conjunction Capital, and Grant from Hanger75, discusses venture capital strategies. The conversation begins with a debate on whether the next VC dollar should be invested in talent or in execution systems and R&D. Grant argues for the value of existing tools and systems, while Anu champions investing in top-tier talent for long-term returns. The panelists then discuss the balance between founder quality and IP in valuation, highlighting clarity of thought and competitive differentiation as key founder attributes. Kirill mentions the challenges of high valuations and the importance of founder adaptability. The discussion shifts to acquisitions, with Sandeep emphasizing the need for a shared vision and strategic alignment. Anu discusses the parameters that come into play, when a late stage company gets approached by a potential acquirer. The conversation concludes with a discussion of Meta's AI talent acquisition strategy, with panelists debating the potential for cultural integration and the value of attracting top-tier talent.