Coinbase VP Corp & Biz Dev, Head of Ventures, Shan Aggarwal - On Crypto Investing through the Cycles

Wharton FinTech Podcast

In today's episode, lead host Djavaneh Bierwirth speaks with Shan Aggarwal, VP of BD & Corporate at Coinbase, as well as the Head of Coinbase Ventures. Shan discusses his broad spanning role at Coinbase and leadership of the company’s venture arm, his journey from studying neuroscience to investing in crypto, and the evolution of Coinbase Ventures as the crypto ecosystem has grown and matured over the last six years. They also explore key investment areas such as Web3 social media platforms and stablecoin based cross-border payments, as well as discuss the cyclical nature of the space. Tune in to hear Shan's insights on the future of crypto investing. [00:00] Introduction and Shan’s journey from neuroscience to crypto [09:10] Thoughts on Web3 social media platforms [12:30] Decentralized finance and cross-border payments [22:46] Changes in investment approach at Coinbase Ventures [27:34] Balancing operational support and ecosystem insights [31:41] Cyclical phases of the crypto ecosystem [37:50] Thoughts on crypto valuations [42:54] Investor patience in the crypto space