Welcome back to Tank Talks! In this episode, host Matt Cohen and John Ruffolo dive deep into the latest developments at the intersection of AI, tech, finance, and Canadian sovereignty. From Canada's battle over data center sovereignty to the rapid rise of secondary funds in venture capital, Matt and John cover it all in a fast-paced, thought-provoking conversation.

Canada’s Looming Data Sovereignty Crisis (00:30)

Matt and John kick things off with a critical discussion on Canada's data sovereignty issues. With foreign powers potentially controlling key Canadian data centers, they explore the risks and the urgent need for Canada to develop a more self-reliant infrastructure.

The Great AI Infrastructure Rush (03:23)

The Canadian pension funds (also known as the Maple 8) are making huge moves in the AI infrastructure space. But is this just the tip of the iceberg? Matt and John unpack the massive investments pouring into data centers and AI infrastructure, and what Canada could do to ensure it doesn't just become a resource extractor for foreign companies.

The Growing Secondary Market: Northleaf’s $663 Million Fund (07:56)

Secondary funds are taking center stage in the private equity world. Northleaf Capital Partners recently raised $663 million for its secondary fund, and Matt and John break down the growing trend of secondary transactions in venture capital. Will more firms follow Northleaf’s lead? Tune in to find out!

The Issue of Zombie Assets in Venture Capital (10:57)

John introduces the concept of “zombie assets” that are sitting stagnant in venture capital funds. These assets are causing liquidity problems, and Matt and John discuss how secondary funds like Northleaf are stepping in to help.

Sovereignty and Stablecoins: A National Security Risk? (12:57)

As the US dominates the stablecoin market, Matt and John discuss Canada’s vulnerability in the crypto space. Should Canada be concerned about losing control of its monetary policy to foreign stablecoins and cryptocurrencies? The conversation takes a deep dive into how these digital assets are changing global financial power dynamics.

Regulating Crypto and Stablecoins in Canada (16:42)

John brings up a troubling development, Canada’s slow response to the rise of stablecoins, and the risks of leaving its financial sovereignty at the mercy of foreign-backed assets. With the US moving fast on crypto regulation, what should Canada do to protect its financial system?

A Wake-Up Call for Canadian Banks (19:47)

Matt and John discuss the changing landscape for Canadian banks as crypto and stablecoins grow in popularity. What should Canadian financial institutions do to ensure they don’t lose out on this emerging market? The hosts explore potential strategies for banks to adopt in response to the rapid growth of decentralized finance.

Connect with John Ruffolo on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo

Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1

Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/

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The Rundown 7/24/25: Canada’s Sovereignty Crisis, AI Boom, and the Rise of Secondary Deals

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