About

Over 25+ years building startups in SF & Silicon Valley. Now on a journey from tech entrepreneur to VC & portfolio manager.

· 3 min read
About

Hi, I'm James Thomason. As a technologist and entrepreneur, I've dedicated the last 25 years to building startup companies in Silicon Valley and San Francisco. Now, I'm navigating a new path from entrepreneur to VC and portfolio manager. Here, I write about emerging technology trends, the nuances of building startups, and the complexities of trading and investing.

As a Founding Partner at Next Wave Partners, I'm at the forefront of reshaping the venture capital landscape. We're not just another fund; we're a venture studio committed to broadening opportunities for startups and improving the prospects of success for both founders and investors. In my role here, I often step in as an interim CTO or take on the responsibilities of VP of Product or Strategy. It's about applying my hands-on experience to help these companies find their footing and grow.

In parallel, I am also Portfolio Manager our family office, a long-short fund where we employ an active trading strategy to capitalize on market dislocations and volatility. My background gives us an edge in navigating complex sectors like tech, biotech, medtech, fintech, and industrials. We integrate macro, fundamental, AI and alternative data to take concentrated, short and mid term positions in secular growth stories while shorting deteriorating business models. Our approach includes macro and dynamic hedging overlays with strategic use of derivatives, balancing aggressive moves with calculated risk management. We detect early macro and technological shifts earlier than most, allowing us to capitalize on market inefficiencies and drive alpha in a landscape driven by innovation.

Through my writing here, I aim to provide a realistic perspective on the tech industry, drawing from the myriad challenges and successes I've encountered. Whether I'm dissecting a new tech breakthrough, advising a startup on its next move, or navigating complex market dynamics, my insights are rooted in real-life experiences and a deep understanding of the tech landscape.

Join me as I navigate this exciting intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and investment, sharing insights and stories from the front lines of the industry.

Important Disclosures

Informational Purposes Only: The information presented on this site covers various topics, including my trading and investment strategies, emerging technology trends, and insights into the tech industry. It is important to note that this content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as investment, financial, or legal advice. The information provided is based on my professional experience and understanding of the financial markets. However, it does not constitute personalized advice tailored to your individual investment goals, financial situation, or needs. I strongly encourage all readers to consult with a licensed financial advisor and conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.

Trading and Investing is Very Risky: Engaging in trading and investing, particularly in sectors such as emerging tech, biotech, and fintech, and with instruments like options and other derivatives, involves significant risk. The potential for both substantial gains and losses is high. It is possible to lose all or even more than your initial investment rapidly. My analyses and insights are based on my experiences and interpretations, but there may be errors or omissions. Past performance is not indicative of future results. I accept no liability for any direct or consequential loss arising from the use of the information on this site. Always proceed with caution and consider your risk tolerance and financial situation.

Conflicts of Interest: As an active participant in trading and investment, I may hold positions in or trade the securities and companies discussed on this site. This introduces potential conflicts of interest, as my personal holdings and trading decisions could influence the content presented. My positions may change without notice. Readers should be aware of this potential conflict when interpreting the information provided. To maintain transparency, I will periodically update and disclose any relevant conflicts of interest and holdings as necessary.

Accuracy and Updates: While I strive for accuracy in the information presented, I do not guarantee it. The content may include errors or inaccuracies, and it is subject to change. I will make reasonable efforts to update disclosures and information regularly, but I recommend that readers verify details and seek professional advice as needed.