This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the differentiation between technology and 'tech' as an investment category, the future of AI, potential profitability of AI companies, and the challenges faced by VC investors in the AI space.

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SEND US YOUR Q's FOR NOAH TO ANSWER ON AIR: [email protected]

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LINKS:

Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/

Some thoughts on the future of the tech industry: https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/some-thoughts-on-the-future-of-the

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:23) State of technology: Optimism vs. realism

(07:18) Consumer social and the limits of innovation

(11:10) Role of AI in education and healthcare

(18:35) Sponsors: Babbel | WorkOS

(20:44) Impact of incumbents on innovation

(25:28) Future of e-commerce and remote work

(31:52) Sponsor: NetSuite

(32:59) Future of AI in venture capital

(36:13) Economic impacts of AI adoption

(40:52) Challenges in AI profitability

(43:33) Role of big tech in AI

(50:24) Political shifts in the tech industry

(01:03:13) Wrap