The Great VC Exodus: Why the Unholy Trinity of Loyalty, Fear, and Greed is Sending Investors Packing
In a shocking turn of events, the venture capital world is experiencing a mass exodus of top investors, leaving a trail of bewildered limited partners and anxious entrepreneurs in their wake. But why are these titans of tech abandoning ship, and what does it mean for the future of the industry?
The Traditional VC Way
For decades, venture capitalists have been known for their loyalty to their firms, with many partners staying put for 10-year terms or more. But this era of stability is coming to an end. The rise of new funds, the allure of entrepreneurship, and the pressure to stay relevant have all contributed to a perfect storm of departures.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Fear is a powerful motivator, and it’s driving many VCs to take the leap and start their own funds. With the rise of new investment opportunities and the fear of being left behind, even the most established players are taking the plunge. It’s a classic case of FOMO, and it’s changing the face of the venture capital landscape.
Greed: The Ultimate Motivator
Let’s face it: venture capital is a lucrative business, and the promise of riches is a powerful motivator. With the potential for massive returns, even the most loyal VCs are tempted to strike out on their own. The allure of unlimited upside and the chance to build their own legacy is too great to resist.
The List of Departures
So, who’s jumping ship? Here’s a list of the notable VCs who have made the move:
- James da Costa: Left Fingo to join Andreessen Horowitz as a partner
- Jacob Westphal: Left Andreessen Horowitz to become portfolio lead at Will Ventures
- Maria Palma: Left Kindred Capital to join Freestyle VC as a general partner
- Alex Cook: Leaving Tiger Global after nearly seven years
- Lauri Moore: Joined Bessemer Venture Partners as a partner
- Milo Werner: Joined DCVC as a general partner to lead climate investing practice
- Anne Lee Skates: Left Andreessen Horowitz to pursue her "life’s work"
- Spencer Peterson: Left Bedrock to become general partner at Coatue
- Amanda "Robby" Robson: Leaving Cowboy Ventures to launch her own fund
- Alison Stillman: Stepped back from Serena Ventures to pursue other opportunities
- Terri Burns: Leaving GV to launch Type Capital
- Eva Ho: Transitioning out of Fika Ventures after the current fund is deployed
- Alison Lange Engel: Leaving Greycroft to become CEO at Ceros
- Vic Singh: Stepping down from Eniac Ventures to launch his own firm
- Ethan Kurzweil: Leaving Bessemer Venture Partners to launch an early-stage-focused investment firm
- Christina Farr: Leaving OMERS Ventures to pursue her health tech newsletter and consulting work
- Ethan Choi: Leaving Accel to join Khosla Ventures
- Jay Zaveri and Ravi Tanuku: Fired from Social Capital
- Miles Grimshaw: Returning to Thrive Capital as a general partner
- Sam Blond: Leaving Founders Fund to return to operating
- Connie Chan: Leaving Andreessen Horowitz after 12 years
- Keith Rabois: Leaving Founders Fund to return to Khosla Ventures
The Future of Venture Capital
As the VC exodus continues, one thing is clear: the landscape of venture capital is changing. With more players entering the market and the rise of new investment opportunities, the stakes have never been higher. Will this period of upheaval lead to a more diverse and innovative industry, or will it create a world of uncertainty and risk? Only time will tell.
