As 2025 draws to a close, it is worth reflecting on the year that was – fuelled by a solid dose of technology, we continue to reinvent how we live, work, and interact. And by “reinvent,” I mean we have gone from debating whether AI will take our jobs to asking ChatGPT to write our Christmas cards. Progress, right?

Driven by incremental developments in technology, the pace of change has been relentless. AI, crypto, cyber, quantum – these aren’t just buzzwords anymore; they are shaping industries, economies, and occasionally, dinner conversations. But here is the real challenge: how do we find the right applications? How do we ensure these innovations add societal value rather than just creating more ways to lose your password or accidentally deepfake your boss? And who are the entrepreneurs that will succeed? Hint: probably the ones who can explain their pitch without using “disrupt” five times.

Venture has – and continues to – play a critical role in this evolution. Why? Because someone has to fund the madness, and occasionally brilliance, that drives progress. There have never been more opportunities to build technology and companies, but paradoxically, it has never been harder to get it right. It is like being handed all the ingredients for a Michelin-star meal only to discover that the kitchen is on fire. Global macro headwinds, wars, and fiscal challenges – these are just some of the potholes on the road to innovation.

Yet, despite the chaos, we have all the tools and ingredients to create something extraordinary. At Concentric, we are genuinely excited about what 2026 could bring. We look forward to working with our world-class founders, companies, and the wider ecosystem to foster great achievements in 2026 and beyond.

So, as you raise your glass, take comfort in knowing that the future is bright – albeit slightly unpredictable. Here’s to a season filled with joy, laughter, and maybe fewer Zoom calls.

Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year from all of us at Concentric! 

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