August 14, 2026 - Trends

The Rise of AI-Proof Assets

Real value.

Lakers arena

The Lakers recent $12.5B sale highlights the rise of AI-proof assets.

Sports > slop. Josh Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger bought the team through Thrive Eternal, an investment vehicle focused on assets with “qualities that cannot be replicated by technology.” Its first move was a minority stake in the San Francisco Giants.

Culture club. Sports have become society’s connective tissue, with 81% of Gen Z saying the industry is gaining influence over music, fashion, and careers. Rare monocultural experiences, 78% of young people attend sporting events for pop culture aspects beyond the game.

Wellness premium. From gyms and races to social clubs and destinations, wellness is driving the IRL economy, becoming a defensible asset class in the age of AI.

Betting on participation and physical presence, Ari Emanuel’s MARI has raised nearly $3B to roll up tennis, endurance events, and other live experiences.

Punchline: As AI invades every facet of life, the value of collective IRL experiences is rising, with sports’ surge signaling demand for uniquely human events and venues.

Joe Vennare

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