Three technologies – quantum computing, reusable space rockets and nuclear fusion – could change the trajectory of human progress. Investment manager Luke Ward explains how a trio of private companies are bringing them closer to fruition.

Background:

Luke Ward is an investment manager in Baillie Gifford’s Private Companies Team and recently became co-manager of the Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust.

In this episode of Short Briefings…, he discusses three companies developing groundbreaking technologies and building innovative businesses as they do so:

• PsiQuantum, which aims to create the world’s first useful quantum computers
• SpaceX, which is well on its way to developing the first fully reusable space rocket, with a view to ultimately transporting people to Mars
• SHINE Technologies, which is commercialising applications of nuclear fusion on the path to delivering a clean and safe energy source for the future

Among the topics Ward covers are how photon-based quantum computers could drive progress in agriculture and batteries, among other industries. He also discusses how the Starlink satellite broadband provides a stepping stone to SpaceX’s larger ambitions. And he explains how SHINE’s work on detecting flaws in mission-critical aerospace components and making a new cancer treatment possible bring it closer to harnessing the reaction that powers the sun.

Resources:

PsiQuantum: making the leap to quantum computing

PsiQuantum: stock story

SHINE Technologies: an interview with chief executive Greg Piefer

SpaceX and other private company trailblazers

Starlink: broadband from above

Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust

Your vote, EWIT’s future

EWIT: Saba vote

Companies mentioned include:

PsiQuantum

SHINE Technologies

SpaceX

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction

01:50  From mechanical engineering to investment

02:55  Technological innovation informing business innovation

03:45  Quantum computing versus the ‘classical’ approach

04:55  Using quantum computers to disrupt chemical fertilisers

06:10  PsiQuantum’s semiconductor supply chain advantage

07:20  A photonic approach to computing

08:05  Signs that PsiQuantum could succeed

09:45  PsiQuantum’s potential business model

10:30  Partnering with Mitsubishi Chemical and Mercedes-Benz

11:35  SpaceX: satellite launches and advanced rockets

12:35  Starlink’s high-speed internet from orbit

13:40  Connecting smartphones directly to Starlink

15:05  The investment case for Mars

16:55  Leading Baillie Gifford’s SpaceX investment in 2018

19:35  Considering other space industry investments

10:21  Nuclear fusion v fission

22:25  SHINE Technologies’ stepping stone approach

23:20  From advanced imaging to radiopharmaceuticals

24:15  Clinical trials for prostate cancer treatment Lutetium-177

24:40  Recycling nuclear waste

25:50  Saba vote: giving the public access to private companies

27:35  Investing in geothermal energy

28:30  Seeking inspiration in Silicon Valley