In an exclusive conversation with CNBC-TV18, the managing director & co-founder of Inventus Capital Partners characterized AI as a transformative force surpassing previous technological revolutions, noting that this trend is rapidly gaining momentum.
“It’s a massive wave, and it’s not going to stop. It’s not going to slow down,” Rekhi remarked. “This AI wave is nearly a tsunami.”
Having moved to California in 1971, Rekhi shared that he has observed every significant technological transition over the past fifty years, ranging from the nascent semiconductor sector to personal computers, networking, software, the internet, mobile technology, and social media.
He stated that while each phase built upon its predecessor, AI stands out as the ultimate culmination due to the abundance and affordability of computing power, memory, and bandwidth.
“Every new thing builds upon what was there before. But AI is the final culmination of all that,” he explained.
Rekhi likens technological advancement to surfing, where each subsequent wave is larger than the last.
He cited AI startup Anthropic as an instance of the wealth being generated, noting that the company achieved $10 billion in quarterly revenue with approximately 3,000 employees, equating to millions of dollars in revenue per employee.
“Technology is producing value, which is translating into wealth for a large number of people. Every employee at Anthropic is becoming a multimillionaire,” he stated.
Rekhi also pointed to SpaceX, which has seen its valuation soar, as another case of wealth generation spurred by technology.
“SpaceX is the same. Wealth creation is happening on a massive scale, which creates a feedback loop. Now there’s wealth available to undertake greater risks and invest in more ambitious ideas,” he noted.
Describing the phenomenon as self-reinforcing, Rekhi emphasized that innovation and capital are creating a cycle that continually fuels greater aspirations.
“This has gone nuclear. It’s a self-sustaining nuclear reaction,” he added.
The 81-year-old investor remarked that the rapid pace of technological disruption implies that businesses and investors can no longer depend on outdated assumptions, as new technologies swiftly replace existing paradigms and introduce entirely fresh opportunities.
For the complete interview, watch the accompanying video.
