The Rundown 9/5/25: The Battle for AI Supremacy, Canada’s Budget Cuts, and Global Trade Shifts featuring Michael Hyatt

In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen is joined by serial entrepreneur and investor Michael Hyatt and prominent Canadian venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and business leader John Ruffolo as they dive into some of the most pressing issues facing Canada and the world today. The conversation begins with a look at the upcoming federal budget, where Michael shares his perspective on the tough choices ahead for Canada's economy, including the potential for significant budget cuts and the challenges of balancing austerity with essential investments.

The discussion quickly shifts to the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence, with Matt, John, and Michael debating the future of AI supremacy. As global tech giants like OpenAI and Google race to dominate the AI market, the team explores how Canada can stay competitive and why the AI boom is not without its risks.

With the U.S. and Canada navigating a delicate trade relationship, the episode also delves into the geopolitical shifts that could impact Canada’s role in the global economy. From the impacts of tariffs to the looming question of whether Canada can adapt to the fast-changing digital landscape, this episode covers the critical intersections of politics, tech, and finance.

AI Supremacy: Who Will Lead the Tech Revolution? (00:10:03)

The discussion quickly shifts to the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence. With tech giants like OpenAI and Google leading the charge, Michael, Matt, and John discuss how Canada can remain competitive in the AI race and why the industry’s rapid expansion is both exciting and fraught with challenges.

Global Trade Shifts: U.S.-Canada Relations and Beyond (00:19:05)

As global trade tensions shift, the episode examines Canada’s increasingly complicated relationship with the U.S. From tariffs to the changing nature of global alliances, Matt, Michael, and John discuss how Canada’s economic future could be influenced by geopolitical dynamics and what needs to be done to safeguard the country's position on the world stage.

Canada’s Infrastructure Challenges: High-Speed Rail Delays (00:23:19)

The team discusses Canada’s slow progress on key infrastructure projects, particularly the high-speed rail project between Toronto and Montreal. Michael and John emphasize the importance of fast-tracking such initiatives to remain competitive on the global stage, contrasting Canada’s delays with rapid infrastructure development in countries like China.

AI Bubble: Are We Heading Toward a Tech Crash? (00:25:59)

With the explosive growth in AI, the discussion turns to the potential for an AI bubble. Michael predicts that while the technology is revolutionary, many AI startups are destined to fail. The three dive into the reasons behind the bubble, why so many companies won’t survive, and who the true winners will be.

The Future of Quantum Computing: Canada’s Path to Leadership (00:30:01)

Michael shares his insights on quantum computing, highlighting its potential to reshape industries from healthcare to energy. The team discusses Canada’s role in this rapidly emerging field and whether the country is positioned to be a global leader in quantum technology.

The AI Workforce: Replacing Jobs or Creating Opportunities? (00:35:12)

The team examines the impact of AI on the workforce. Will AI replace human jobs or create new opportunities for workers? Michael and John discuss the balance between automation and human expertise, especially in industries like real estate, healthcare, and finance.

U.S. Federal Reserve and Canada's Economic Impact (00:38:30)

The discussion touches on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policies and how they affect the Canadian economy. Michael talks about the delicate balancing act Canada faces, particularly with rising interest rates and inflation, and how these factors will shape the country’s economic decisions.

Connect with Michael Hyatt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhyatt1/

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/