The Tech Strategy Podcast (Jeffrey Towson)

This week’s podcast is about web 3.0. I view most successful web 3.0 companies like Coinbase as platform-protocol hybrids.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

------

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Protocol Networks
• Platform-Protocol Hybrids / Web 3.0

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Coinbase

-------

I write and speak about digital competition and China / Asia’s leading tech companies.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Nike in China. But it really about how you win as a participant in large platform businesses in ecommerce and social media.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is my new book:

• Moats and Marathons (Part 1): How to Build and Measure Competitive Advantage in Digital Businesses Kindle Edition

---—–

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital Complments
• SMILE Marathon: Ecosystem Orchestration or Participation
• DOB4

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Nike

-------------

I write and speak about digital competition and China / Asia’s leading tech companies.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also run Asia Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of China / Asia tech companies.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about customer capture as a competitive advantage. And how digital is really changing this type of moat.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is my new book:

• Moats and Marathons (Part 1): How to Build and Measure Competitive Advantage in Digital Businesses Kindle Edition

---—–

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• CA1: Share of Consumer Mind, Share of User Mind and User Capture
• Competitive Advantages

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

---------

I write and speak about digital competition and China / Asia’s leading tech companies.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also run Asia Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of China / Asia tech companies.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about how web 3.0 is creating three types of marketplaces:

• Digital platforms (web 2.0), such as a Taobao
• Platform-protocol hybrids, such as Coinbase
• Protocol networks, such as Uniswap

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is my new book:

• Moats and Marathons (Part 1): How to Build and Measure Competitive Advantage in Digital Businesses Kindle Edition

 —–-

Related articles:

• How to Think About Web 3.0 Business Models (1 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Platform-Protocol Hybrids and Why DeFi is the Center of Web 3.0 (2 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Marketplace Platforms
• Protocol Networks
• Platform-Protocol Hybrids (PPH)

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Coinbase
• Uniswap

---

I write and speak about digital competition and China / Asia’s leading tech companies.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Southeast Asian tech giant Grab, its impressive execution and its chronic unprofitability.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is my new book:

• Moats and Marathons (Part 1): How to Build and Measure Competitive Advantage in Digital Businesses Kindle Edition

—–-

Related articles:

• Growth, ROIC / RONIC and Growth + Sales in Digital Valuation (Asia Tech Strategy – Podcast 102)
• An Intro to Growth and “Birds in the Bush” in Digital Valuation (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Complementary Platforms
• Marketplace Platform for Services
• SE Asia
• Engagement Products vs. Margin Products
• Economies of Scale: Geographic Density

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Grab Holdings

--------

I write and speak about digital competition and China / Asia’s leading tech companies.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about combining two previously covered topics: growth and the digital operating basics. This can be surprisingly powerful.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Most of the growth thinking is a summary of work by Chris Zook at Bain’s strategy practice. I am citing the books:

• Profit from the Core
• Beyond the Core

He argues most all sustainable growth is based on 1-2 strong cores that continually adapt.

• A profitable core is centered on the strongest position in terms of loyal customers, competitive advantage, unique skills, and ability to earn profits.
• Adapting the core can be:
  • New products / services
  • New customers – microsegments
  • New geographies
  • New businesses.

Then add growth adjacencies. To assess an adjacency move:

• Factor 1: Adjacency is tightly tied to a strong core.
• Factor 2: An attractive adjacency market in terms of profit pools
• Factor 3: The ability to capture economic leadership in that market. Competitive advantage as an attacker and then an incumbent.

 Growth + DOB can sometimes get you the dream scenario:

1. Grow the revenue line.
2. Increase gross profits. An expanding margin with size.
3. Increase operating leverage with increasing scale. This is more about going for scale.
4. Invest in R&D, tech and infrastructure. This will result in a better user experience and improve operating efficiency.
   1. Drive efficiencies and increase monetization.
   2. Improve the user experience.
   3. Expand the products and services in high growth areas.
5. Do targeted M&A. To increase innovation and protect against disruption.

 -----

Related articles:

• Core vs. Adjacency Growth in Digital Businesses (Asia Tech Strategy – Podcast 104)
• Lessons in Digital Operating Basics from Ram Charan. Part 1 of 2 on “Rethinking Competitive Advantage”. (Asia Tech Strategy – Podcast 98)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Growth: Core vs. Adjacency
• Digital Operating Basics
• DOB7: Sustainable Cash Engine that Scales

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

-------

Support the show

This week’s podcast is newly public GoTo, which is an interesting business model combining a platform for products (Tokopedia) with one for services (Gojek).

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.
 
—----

Related articles:

• Will Southeast Asian Grab Become Meituan or Didi? (Asia Tech Strategy – Podcast 121)
• Grab’s Big Strategy and Cash Flow Question (1 of 3) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Complementary Platforms
• Digital-Physical Hybrids
• Barriers to Entry

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• GoTo / Gojek / Tokopedia

-----

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Amazon vs. Alibaba and Pinduoduo. There are some important strategy differences between the ecommerce leaders in the US and China.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

——

Related articles:

• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• GoTo Is Going for an “Ultimate B2C Marketplace” in Indonesia. But Alibaba Couldn’t Do It in China. (1 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Economies of Scale: Purchasing Economies
• Economies of Scale: Fixed Costs
• Linked Businesses

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Amazon
• Alibaba
• Pinduoduo

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Amazon's competitive advantages. We can see clearly growing moats in ecommerce. But increasing competition is revealing the lack of defenses in video streaming. Netflix has the same problem.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

The mentioned graphics are here. 

——

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• GoTo Is Going for an “Ultimate B2C Marketplace” in Indonesia. But Alibaba Couldn’t Do It in China. (1 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Economies of Scale: Purchasing Economies
• Economies of Scale: Fixed Costs
• Digital Operating Basics

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Amazon
• Netflix

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about digital disruption. It's a big and difficult topic for management teams. And it usually leads to discussion about innovation. Here are 2-3 frameworks for how to think about it.

Correction: I said Daily Mail in the podcast. I meant Daily Journal.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Andreesen-Horowitz's 4 Stages of Disruption

1. Disruption of incumbent
2. Rapid and linear evolution
3. Appealing convergence
4. Complete reimagination

My standard disruption questions:

• Impact: Is the impact on my 6 levels predictable?
• Probability: How how is it for management to hard to pull off this strategy?

---—

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• GoTo Is Going for an “Ultimate B2C Marketplace” in Indonesia. But Alibaba Couldn’t Do It in China. (1 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Sustaining vs. Disruptive Innovation / Clayton Christensen
• Andreesen-Horowitz's 4 stages of disruption

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Barnes and Noble
• Daily Journal

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host US-Asia Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Elon Musk's attempted purchase of Twitter. But it is really about how the control and curation of information flows how become a key issue in the digital age. The lack of effective curation at scale has become a major problem in society. Elon Musk may be the person to finally fix this.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

——--

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• GoTo Is Going for an “Ultimate B2C Marketplace” in Indonesia. But Alibaba Couldn’t Do It in China. (1 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Information Flows
• Interaction Failure and Curation at Scale

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Twitter

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about GE and their big digital transformation initiative from 2011-2018. However, I am not a GE expert by any stretch. I am just presenting a very simplified version of their digital initiatives (from case studies) for a discussion about digital transformation.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here's my playbook for the digital transformation of an incumbent.

•  70% Digital Operating Basics
• 25% Moats
• 5% Tactics

——–

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital Transformation
• Industrial Internet / IIoT
• Digital Operating Basics

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• GE

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Alipay+, which is Ant's new international payment initiative. But it is also about the return of Ant Group after 2 years in restructuring. I call that Ant 2.0.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

——–

Related articles:

• Ant Financial Is 3 Platform Business Models Combined. (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Ant Financial’s Big Money is in Asset-Light Credit Tech (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital Economics: Bundling
• Payment Platforms

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Ant Financial / Alipay+
• Stone
• Square

 
---------

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Xiaomi and ongoing strategy changes and moves. This is a good case for my 6 levels of digital competition. It takes apart the situation fairly effectively. And Apple and Amazon provide good counter-examples.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

—–

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• 6 Levels of Digital Competition
• SMILE Marathon

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Xiaomi
• Amazon
• Apple

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about rate of learning as a concept. That is the digital version of what was originally called the learning curve and the experience effect. Rate of learning has gone from an important idea in production-intensive products to a digital requirement. But the key question is when does rate of learning become a competitive advantage? This podcast is my answer.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

—–--

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Learning Curve and Experience Effect
• SMILE Marathon: Rate of Learning and Adaptation
• CA7: Rate of Learning and Process Cost Advantages

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Amazon
• Tencent

-------

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Walgreens and Ping An Good Doctor. Both are using digital tools to create entirely new business models in healthcare. And both look like they have real strengths, if successful. I also mention CVS health.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.
 
—––

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Economies of Scale
• 6 Digital Superpowers
• AI as a Capability
• Learning Platforms

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Walgreens
• Ping An Good Doctor

-------

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about web3 strategy and business models. It's a big confusing and still evolving space. But I think there are 5 really important concepts to understand (in terms of strategy).

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

—––

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Protocol Networks (Blockchain) with Property Rights
• Composability
• Value Creation vs. Value Distribution
• Points of Control
• Token economics

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Ethereum
• Bitcoin

——-

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the human capital part of the digital operating basics. Specifically, DOB5: Leadership and management and DOB6: People, Culture and Teams. Middle Eastern retailer is a good example of a company that has been focusing on this area.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.
 
—––

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Operating Performance = Smarter, Faster, Better
• DOB5: Leadership and Management
• DOB6: People, Culture and Teams

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Majid Al Futtaim

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about economies of scale - and why it is still the standard strategy. Especially in specialized areas and niche markets.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

-----

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about digital content businesses, which are entirely digital economics. They can have great economics but absolutely need a moat.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Three digital content strategies I do like are:

• Network effects with long-tail of UGC. Such as YouTube and TikTok.
• Creates durable IP. Such as Disney.
• Service and community businesses that uses content.

——-

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Economics of Digital / Information
• Soft Advantages: Bundling and Cross-Selling
• Digital Operating Basics

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Netflix
• Amazon Prime Video
• Singapore Press Holding

———-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Steam and Garena, which are good examples of specialty gaming businesses.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here are my criteria for specialty ecommerce businesses.

1. Is the company sufficiently differentiated in the user experience?
2. Can the company compete and/or differentiate in logistics or infrastructure without ongoing spending?
3. Does the company have a strong competitive advantage in a circumscribed market?
4. Is there a clear path to significant operational cash flow?
5. Has the company avoided markets and situations that are attractive or strategic for the major ecommerce companies?

---—-

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Marketplace Platforms
• Innovation and Audience Builder Platforms
• Specialty Gaming Businesses
• Gaming and Game Engines

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Garena
• Steam / Valve

---——

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about important digital changes happening in ecommerce and retail, and that are mostly coming out of China / Asia.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

—----

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital Operating Basics 2: Digital Core
• Digital Operating Basics 3: Personalization and Customer Improvements

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

——--

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about AB InBev's rapidly rising beverage delivery service Ze Delivery. I visited the facilities and spoke with CEO Rudolfo Chung. It's a fascinating business model.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

——–

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Linked businesses
• Geographic density

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Ze Delivery
• Ab InBev
• iFood

——-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Magazine Luiza / Magalu and how they ended up as the pioneers of online-merge-offline (OMO) in Brazil retail. It’s a fascinating business model.

You can listen to this podcast here or at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here are my three strategy questions about Magalu:

• Big Question #1: Will Magalu Become an "Ultimate B2C Marketplace"? 
• Big Question #2: Will Magalu go full OMO? Will they be more aggressive in retail formats?
• Big Question #3: Will Magalu go full "infrastructure of commerce"?

----------

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• OMO / New Retail
• Infrastructure of Commerce
• Brazil

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Magazine Luiza / Magalu

--------

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about cloud business models. It's a complicated and evolving subject. But I am trying to identify good cloud business models that aren't obvious (like AWS, Azure and Google Cloud). Alibaba Cloud and Snowflake are examples.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here are four sub-types of Coordination Platforms.

• Communication. Zoom, Slack, etc.
• Data Intelligence. Snowflake and Confluent.
• Team Projects. Manual and complicated projects like architecture, media creation, software development.
• Operational Automation.

Here are cloud business models I like:

• Innovation platforms
• Coordination platforms (especially when combined with innovation platforms).
• Vertical solutions

———-

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Platforms: Coordination
• Platforms: Innovation
• Cloud services

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Alibaba Cloud
• Snowflake

——–

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about economies of scale in purchasing power. I go through Walmart and Costco as traditional examples. And point to JD, Apple, and Pinduoduo as digital examples.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here are types of economies of scale.

• CA11: Fixed Operating and Capital Costs
• CA12: Purchasing Economies and Bargaining Power with Suppliers
  • Larger companies can demand cheaper prices and/or better terms from suppliers than their smaller competitors. This is about bargaining power for important and/or sizeable inputs
• CA13: Geographic and Distribution Density
• CA14: Geometry Effect
• CA15: Learning Scale

Cases of purchasing economies

• Newsfeed of offers plus C2M results in purchasing economies. Pinduoduo.
• Privileged technology access by Apple
• Purchasing economies. This was JD's biggest lever.
• Platform business models power over suppliers.

——-

Related articles:

• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Competitive Advantage: Purchasing Economies and Bargaining Power with Suppliers

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• JD
• Pinduoduo
• Walmart
• Costco

----------

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Grab's growth initiatives, which are critical for getting to operating profits. They also provide a case for talking about core vs. adjacency growth.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Grab's compelling growth initiatives include:

1. New Services for Consumers
2. GrabUnlimited
3. Cross-Selling
4. Advertising
5. Financial Services

Most of this is a summary of work by Chris Zook at Bain’s strategy practice. I am citing the books:

• Profit from the Core
• Beyond the Core

Most all sustainable growth is based on 1-2 strong cores.

• A profitable core is centered on the strongest position in terms of loyal customers, competitive advantage, unique skills, and ability to earn profits.
  • My list for strong cores are growth / market, competitive advantage and attractive unit economics.
• Adapting the core can be:
  • New products / services
  • New customers – microsegments
  • New geographies
  • New businesses.

Six growth adjacencies:

• New customer segments:
• New geographies
• New channels
• New products
• New Businesses
• New value chain steps

How to assess an adjacency move:

• Factor 1: Adjacency is tightly tied to a strong core.
• Factor 2: An attractive adjacency market in terms of profit pools
• Factor 3: The ability to capture economic leadership in that market.

Digital adjacencies are moderate, relentless expansions versus big trees.

——-

Related articles:

• Grab’s Big Strategy and Cash Flow Question (1 of 4) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Lessons from Grab in Geographic Density and Other Tech Enabled Cost Efficiencies (3 of 4)(Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Growth: Core vs. Adjacency
• Growth: Explore vs. Exploit

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Grab

———-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Inves

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Production and Consumption Ecosystems as digital business models. This thinking is mostly by Professor Mohan Subramaniam, who wrote the book The Future of Competitive Strategy: Unleashing the Power of Data and Digital Ecosystems.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

My 9 digital business models are:

1. Linear business models (i.e., pipelines)
2. Production Ecosystems
3. Consumption Ecosystems
4. Company Ecosystems
5. Platforms
6. Pipeline plus Platform Business Model
7. Protocol networks (i.e., blockchains) as stand-alone businesses
8. Platform-protocol hybrids
9. Protocol ecosystems (i.e., building blocks)

---—-

Related articles:

• 9 Digital Business Models: An Intro to Consumption Ecosystems (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• The Big Strategy Concepts for Web 3 (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Big Questions for GoTo (Gojek + Tokopedia) Going Forward (2 of 2)(Winning Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Production and Consumption Ecosystems
• DOB4: Connectedness Interoperability and Collaboration Based Business Models
• Platform Types: Coordination, Collaboration and Standardization

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Haier

———-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Elon Musk's take-over and turn-around of Twitter. Lots of cool lessons in what he has done in the first 3 weeks.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the Asia Tech Tour.

——

• What is Elon Musk’s Plan to 10x Twitter? (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Audience-Builder Platform with Connected Users
• Digital Operating Basics
• Social media

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Twitter

———-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the arrival of ChatGPT, which is stunning people everywhere with its content generation.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the Asia Tech Tour.

Here is the link to ChatGPT

Here is the past article on Conversation AI at JD:

• 3 Lessons in Conversational AI from JD’s Head of the Deep Learning (1 of 2)

--——

• What is Elon Musk’s Plan to 10x Twitter? (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• AI as Cheap and Fast Prediction
• AI: NLP

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• OpenAI

———-

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the two leading and well-run ecommerce companies in Brazil: Magazine Luiza / Magalu and Mercado Libre. Both companies have compelling but different business models. It is an interesting strategy question.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the Asia Tech Tour.

--——

Related articles:

• What is Elon Musk’s Plan to 10x Twitter? (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Marketplace platforms
• Online-Merge-Offline (OMO) / New Retail

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Mercado Libre
• Magazine Luiza / Magalu

———-

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Microsoft and how I approach its valuation.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the Asia Tech Tour.
 
——----

Related articles:

• An Intro to Growth and “Birds in the Bush” in Digital Valuation (Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• An Intro to Discount Rates and Cost of Capital for Digital Valuation (Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Why DCF Sucks for Digital Valuation. (Tech Strategy – Podcast 101)
• An Intro to Digital Valuation (Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Valuation Like Warren Buffett in 1 Slide (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Valuation (Question 3): Digital Valuation
• Valuation: Bird in Hand vs. Bush
• Valuation: Growth, ROIC/RONIC and Value

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Microsoft

-------

I write, speak and consult about digital strategy and transformation.

My book Moats and Marathons details how to measure competitive advantage in digital businesses.

I also host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter on the strategies of the best digital companies in the US, China and Asia.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about how consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies can go digital. It's my 4 basic rules to get going.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

My 4 Rules for CPG Brands going Digital

1. Focus on DOB3. You need to digitize the core. This is easier in CPG as it's mostly about marketing. The hard part is creating the connection with the consumer. AB InBev did this by creating its own app and delivery service. You can use services like Shopify and JD Logistics.
2. Do DOB4 as early you can. You want to connect with other parties, such as complements and retailers. This is mostly about sharing data early on. Collaborations in product development, operations and R&D may come later.
3. Commit to Ecosystem / Platform Participation as your SMILE marathon long-term. You have to become a master at engaging with the major ecommerce, social media and video platforms. Even Nike can’t do it all direct. This is usually about developing talent early on.
4. Build moats and competitive advantages as you can. These will mostly be by consumer capture.

——-

Related articles:

• Zé Delivery’s “Wow” Experiences vs. Ant’s Sustained Innovation Imperative (1 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why I Really Like Amazon’s Strategy, Despite the Crap Consumer Experience (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• DOB3: Digital Core for Management and Operations
• DOB4: Connectedness, Interoperability and Collaboration-Based Business Models.
• SMILE Marathon: Ecosystem / Platform Orchestration or Participation

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• AB InBev / Ze Delivery
• Nike
• CPG

———-

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

I host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter detailing the strategies of the best digital businesses in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about how generative AI is disrupting content creation. This is a major tech shift and a lot of big incumbents (such as Netflix and Disney) are going to be impacted.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Generative AI companies to try:

• OpenAI / ChatGPT
• OpenAI / DALL-E
• Midjourney
• Synthesia
• AIVA
• Lexica
• Wellsaidlabs

5 Winners in Generative AI

• Specific, niche content creators, usually based on people. Such as sports content, game shows, and reality TV. Also, some creators with do very but will follow a power law.
• Content production tied to community or services
• Audience builder platforms 
• Learning platforms
• Creator tools providers with standardization Network Effects, such as Adobe.

2 Likely Losers in Generative AI

• Content publishers. These intermediaries (such as book publishers) don't have much of a role unless they unless they control demand or distribution.
• Stand alone content creators. Content can be created in house and purchased. They will struggle with coming wave of high-quality, free content. That’s Disney, Netflix, most tv studios. Basically, any business that has been relying on scale in content creation. Economies of scale in content production disappearing - especially in animation. Barriers to entry are going away. Companies like Disney and Netflix needs to become audience builder platforms ASAP. They need to expand from mass market to micro markets.

——-

Related articles:

• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why I Don't Like Netflix, Singapore Press and Most Digital Content Businesses (136)
• Why Netflix and Amazon Prime Don’t Have Long-Term Power. (2 of 2) (US-Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

———-

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about why intangible assets are so important in operations, competitive moats and valuation. They are central to digital businesses - but confusing.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the AI company Movio.la

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

McKinsey’s Framework for Intangible Assets

• Innovation / Creative Assets. This is any time, effort or money spent developing intellectual property. This includes content creation, such as entertainment and artistic originals. And it includes other types of content such as mapping and user generated content. But it can also include R&D in new product development, improved customer interfaces and improved user experiences (whether digital or physical). The term “innovation capital” is a good description of these types of intangible assets, which we see frequently in digital businesses.
• Digital and Analytics Assets. This is any time, effort or money spent developing, maintaining, and advancing digital assets and capabilities. This includes software, data warehouses, digital infrastructure, and other digital and data capabilities. This includes pretty much everything in the digital operating basics. It also includes CRM software, ecommerce interfaces, data analytics models and algorithms and so on. I like that they separated this as a category from intellectual property and content assets. The title “digital and analytics capital” is great.
• Human and Relational Assets. This has two sub-types. This is any time, effort or money spent on:
  • Building individual or organizational skills through training within an organization. So, this is your talent strategy – which includes specialist skills and capabilities but also social and emotional skills. This also includes relations and interactions within organizations, such as organizational and managerial capabilities. You can put adaptability and resilience here.
  • Building ecosystems and networks external the organization is also important. This is relationships and partnerships with suppliers, complements and data partners. This is where Digital Operating Basics 4 as well as Consumption Ecosystems would go.
• Brand Assets. This is any time, effort or money spent to maintain or increase brand equity. This is an important category, but the name is not great. Relationships with current and potential customers is an important intangible asset (often called brand equity). This can include capabilities that build and maintain these relationships – such as loyalty programs, promotions, and fan clubs. Customer service and churn and retention initiatives are also very important.

——---

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter detailing the strategies of the best digital businesses in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risk

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about more about generative Ai as a disruptive technology and business model. My argument is it is going to disrupt many dominant platform business models - like YouTube, and TikTok.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the mentioned AI company Movio.la

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

——--

Related articles:

• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Generative AI
• AI-Powered Service Business Model

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Midjourney
• OpenAI / ChatGPT
• YouTube
• TikTok

———–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

I host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter detailing the strategies of the best digital businesses in the US, China and Asia.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about more about generative Ai as a disruptive technology and business model.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

———

Related articles:

• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Generative AI
• 7 Digital Superpowers

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Midjourney
• Runway
• OpenAI / ChatGPT

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

I host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter detailing the strategies of the best digital businesses in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Monster Energy and my approach for winning in digital as a CPG brand.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.
 
———

Related podcasts and articles are:

• Habits, Chemistry and Mindless Behavior As Competitive Advantages (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Competitive Advantage: Share of Consumer Mind
• Digital Marathon: Ecosystem / Platform Participation
• CPG and FMCG

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Monster Energy

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

I host Tech Strategy, a podcast and subscription newsletter detailing the strategies of the best digital businesses in the US, China and Asia.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a rant about the common "China is going to collapse" narrative. Most recently made by Peter Zeihan on Joe Rogan.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Peter's interview with Joe on China is here.

Here is the Bank of Japan study.

Here are the two books mentioned:

• The One Hour China Consumer Book: Five Short Stories That Explain the Brutal Fight for One Billion Consumers
• The One Hour China Book: All of China Business Explained in Six Short Stories

———

Related podcasts and articles are:

• Habits, Chemistry and Mindless Behavior As Competitive Advantages (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• n/a

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the struggle of companies like Grab, Dingdong, Meituan, Didi, GoJek and iFood to reach operating profits.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

——

Related podcasts and articles are:

• Lessons from Grab in Geographic Density and Other Tech Enabled Cost Efficiencies (3 of 4) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• How Alibaba Freshippo and Dingdong Got to Profitability in Ecommerce Groceries (1 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• How Alibaba Freshippo and Dingdong Got to Profitability in Ecommerce Groceries (2 of 2) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Economies of Scale: Geographic and Distribution Density
• Ecommerce

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Grab
• Dingdong

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about machine learning and prediction as a capability.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is podcast on the intangible asset framework.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

——

Related articles:

• An Intro to Discount Rates and Cost of Capital for Digital Valuation (Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Why DCF Sucks for Digital Valuation. (Tech Strategy – Podcast 101)
• An Intro to Digital Valuation (Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Capabilities, Resources and Assets (CRAs)
• Machine learning / AI
• SMILE Marathon: Machine Learning

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about network effects, as described by James Courrier and NFX.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here is the NFx Network Effects manual.

Here are NFX's 16 network effects, in order of strength:

1. Physical (e.g. landline telephones)
2. Protocol (e.g. Ethernet)
3. Personal Utility (e.g. iMessage, WhatsApp)
4. Personal (e.g. Facebook)
5. Market Network (e.g. HoneyBook, AngelList)
6. Marketplace (e.g. eBay, Craigslist)
7. Platform (e.g. Windows, iOS, Android)
8. Asymptotic Marketplace (e.g. Uber, Lyft)
9. Data (e.g. Waze, Yelp!)
10. Tech Performance (e.g. Bittorrent,Skype)
11. Language (e.g. Google, Xerox)
12. Belief (currencies, religions)
13. Bandwagon (e.g. Slack, Apple)
14. Expertise (Figma, Microsoft Excel)
15. Tribal (Apple, Harvard, NY Yankees…)
16. Hub-and-Spoke (TikTok, Medium, Craigslist)

——

Related articles:

• 3 Types of Network Effects (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Questions for Huawei’s CEO, JD & Jingxi, Metcalfe’s Law Is Dumb (Asia Tech Strategy)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Network Effects
• Data Advantages and Network Effects
• Embedding
• Bandwagon Effects

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about why Americans must protect TikTok.

• TikTok is not the big and proven threat to freedom and privacy. The US Censorship Regime is.
• For now, TikTok is necessary to break the censorship monopoly and restore free speech to Silicon Valley.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here is the statement by TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew.

Here is Glenn Greenwald's System Update

——--

Related articles:

• 3 Types of Network Effects (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Questions for Huawei’s CEO, JD & Jingxi, Metcalfe’s Law Is Dumb (Asia Tech Strategy)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Information flows
• Social media

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• TikTok
• Twitter
• Rumble

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Huawei's recent 2022 financial results and big event.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

—–

Related articles:

• My Interview with Huawei’s Guo Ping on Managing People vs. Managing Rules and Systems (Tech Strategy – Daily Strategy)
• 3 Types of Network Effects (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Questions for Huawei’s CEO, JD & Jingxi, Metcalfe’s Law Is Dumb (Asia Tech Strategy)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• n/a

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Huawei

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is TikTok's international success.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here are my three factors for succeeding internationally:

1.  Has a 10x product and user experience. Plus early mover. Plus big spending (marketing, acquisitions, hiring, etc.)

2. The service is standardizable cross-border. Little need for localization and/or local services.

3. It build on advantages. Or the business builds competitive advantages and entrenches rapidly.

—–

Related articles:

• My Interview with Huawei’s Guo Ping on Managing People vs. Managing Rules and Systems (Tech Strategy – Daily Strategy)
• 3 Types of Network Effects (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Questions for Huawei’s CEO, JD & Jingxi, Metcalfe’s Law Is Dumb (Asia Tech Strategy)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• n/a

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• ByteDance / TikTok / Douyin
• WeChat
• Kuaishou
• Shein
• Temu / Pinduoduo

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about AutoGPT / AgentGPT and two other cool new technologies.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here are the three technologies mentioned:

• 5.5G and immersive and experiential video everywhere.
• AutoGPT and AgentGPT.
• Human organizational structure adopting software architecture.

—–---

Related articles:

• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• GPT and Generative AI: AutoGPT

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• OpenAI / ChatGPT
• AgentGPT

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about AutoGPT / AgentGPT and how it is leading to the rise of digital agents. This will lead to the emergence of non-human platforms and business models.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

----—–

Related articles:

• AutoGPT and Other Tech I Am Super Excited About (Tech Strategy – Podcast 162)
• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• GPT and Generative AI: AutoGPT
• Zero human operations
• Digital Agents
• Non Human Platforms and Business Models

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• OpenAI / ChatGPT
• AgentGPT

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the generative AI foundation models of OpenAI and Google. Will they have competitive defenses? Especially against open source.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here are the two articles mentioned:

• Google “We Have No Moat, And Neither Does OpenAI”.
• Who Owns the Generative AI Platform?

My (working) conclusions are:

• Technology does not have moats. Business models have moats.
• We are looking for competitive defensibility, not moats.
• Adoption by dominant players with big moats that are not being impacted will be the biggest beneficiaries.
• Foundation models will likely advance from early mover plus digital marathon to defensible moats in platform business models.
  • Innovation platforms. These are likely. And offer a model for coexistence with open source models.
  • Learning platform. It is unclear how these will evolve. They will be different than search,

-—–

Related articles:

• AutoGPT and Other Tech I Am Super Excited About (Tech Strategy – Podcast 162)
• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• GPT and Generative AI
• Innovation Platforms
• Learning Platforms

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• OpenAI / GPT / ChatGPT
• Google / Bard

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about how generative AI can start improving your business and career.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here are three things you can (should) do right now:

Step 1: Develop Staff and Skills in Gen AI (DOB 5, DOB6)

Step 2: Use to Improve Internal Productivity

Step 3: Use to Improve Products, Services, and the Customer Experience (DOB2) 

Here are the tools I use all day long:

• ChatGPT4 with Plugins and Web Browsing
  • Plugins: Show Me, Zapier, SEO Optimizer
• Google Bard
• Bing AI
• Midjourney and Leonardo AI
• AgentGPT

Other tools I am experimenting with:

• Zapier
• Runway ML
• Opus Clips
• PDF.AI
• AskAI
• AI Transcriptions by Riverside and Otter.ai
• Docuask
• Lots of ChatGPT Plugins

---—–

Related articles:

• AutoGPT and Other Tech I Am Super Excited About (Tech Strategy – Podcast 162)
• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• GPT and Generative AI

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• OpenAI / GPT / ChatGPT
• Google / Bard

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about JD Logistics, which is building a smart logistics network at China scale. I spoke to one of its heads and this is what I learned.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

--------

Related podcasts and articles are:

• JD’s Emerging Competitive Advantages? (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• N/A

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• JD Logistics
• JD

-------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about WeChat, which really has reached a level of daily usage that makes it the "everything app". Here is my breakdown on how it got there strategically.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to TechMoat Consulting, with the Tech Tour.

————

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about NetEase and how gaming ecosystems (like Epic Games) have lots of important digital strategy lessons.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you are interesting in discussing your digital strategy, please contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

——–

Related podcasts and articles are:

• JD’s Emerging Competitive Advantages? (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Platforms vs. ecosystems
• Online Gaming

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• NetEase
• Epic Games

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about my visit to ByteDance, which is just a fascinating company. Lots of good lessons that I will be writing about. 

Two clarifications:

• This was a visit to a ByteDance office. Which is a different group than TikTok.
• The ecommerce GMV numbers cited are from external reports - and not ByteDance or TikTok. And these numbers are likely probably guesses and only somewhat accurate.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you're interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting. 

———

Related articles:

• Can ByteDance Breach Alibaba’s Infrastructure Moat and Become An Ecommerce Giant? (Tech Strategy – Podcast 82)
• Alibaba Takes Over Sun Art Retail. Is It Going to Take Off? Or Is It Infrastructure? (pt 1 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)
• Could Sun Art Grow +30% Under Alibaba? (pt 2 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Externalization of Capabilities
• 4 Terrains and Strategies

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• ByteDance

 -----------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about my visit to the Shanghai Mobile World Conference. And the Huawei 5.5G R&D Center. These are my takeaways for what is going to happen next in digital infrastructure.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting. 

———

Related articles:

• Can ByteDance Breach Alibaba’s Infrastructure Moat and Become An Ecommerce Giant? (Tech Strategy – Podcast 82)
• Alibaba Takes Over Sun Art Retail. Is It Going to Take Off? Or Is It Infrastructure? (pt 1 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)
• Could Sun Art Grow +30% Under Alibaba? (pt 2 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• n/a

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Huawei

---------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the recent launch of Threads, Meta's clone of Twitter.

My assessment is that Threads will likely beat Twitter. However, this depends on Treads getting product market fit. They have to get and retain actual engagement at significant. If that doesn't happen, then none of my strategy analysis matters.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

———

Related articles:

• Can ByteDance Breach Alibaba’s Infrastructure Moat and Become An Ecommerce Giant? (Tech Strategy – Podcast 82)
• Alibaba Takes Over Sun Art Retail. Is It Going to Take Off? Or Is It Infrastructure? (pt 1 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)
• Could Sun Art Grow +30% Under Alibaba? (pt 2 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Complementary platforms
• Audience-builder platforms
• SMILE Marathon: Sustained Innovation

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Twitter
• Meta / Facebook / Instagram / Threads

——--

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week's podcast is about my visit to iQIYI. And what I think is coming next for video entertainment under major digital disruption.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.
 
--------

Related articles:

• Can ByteDance Breach Alibaba’s Infrastructure Moat and Become An Ecommerce Giant? (Tech Strategy – Podcast 82)
• Alibaba Takes Over Sun Art Retail. Is It Going to Take Off? Or Is It Infrastructure? (pt 1 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)
• Could Sun Art Grow +30% Under Alibaba? (pt 2 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• 4 Intangible Assets
• Audience-builder platforms
• Generative AI

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• iQIYI

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about digital / information economics.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

—--

Related articles:

• Can ByteDance Breach Alibaba’s Infrastructure Moat and Become An Ecommerce Giant? (Tech Strategy – Podcast 82)
• Alibaba Takes Over Sun Art Retail. Is It Going to Take Off? Or Is It Infrastructure? (pt 1 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)
• Could Sun Art Grow +30% Under Alibaba? (pt 2 of 2) (Asia Tech Strategy – Daily Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital Costs
• Pricing / Versioning
• Willingness to Pay / Consumer Surplus

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

 --------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about my visit to Ant Group.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about digital transformation, which is a long-term and complicated effort by established companies. This podcast is about what really matters.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

Here are the three rules:

Rule 1: The Need for Speed

Rule 2: Intangibles - You Need Invisible Engines to Win

Rule 3: Leadership – Everybody Falls the First Time

Here are the 4 intangible assets mentioned.

• 4 Types of Intangible Assets in Digital Businesses (Tech Strategy – Podcast 151)

——-

Related articles:

• Ant Financial Is 3 Platform Business Models Combined. (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Ant Financial’s Big Money is in Asset-Light Credit Tech (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital transformation
• Leadership digital divide
• 4 intangible assets

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

—--–------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the current hyper-politicization of all things China. It's my take for assessing what it means.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

----—-

Related articles:

• Ant Financial Is 3 Platform Business Models Combined. (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)
• Ant Financial’s Big Money is in Asset-Light Credit Tech (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Role of the State

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about some big moves at JD.com - especially their big strategic move to go after the low-cost market of China. Here's my breakdown on what it means.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting

—-

Related articles:

• JD’s Emerging Competitive Advantages? (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)
• JD’s Is Making a Big Strategic Move into the Low-Cost Market (2 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Marketplace Platforms
• Digital Physical Hybrid

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• JD.com

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about the high profile events at both Apple and Huawei in China this month. Here’s my breakdown on what it means.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

---------

Related articles:

• What TikTok Can Learn From Huawei About the Role of the State (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Podcast 39)
• How Tsingtao, CR Snow and the Other Beer SOEs Won Big in China (Pt 2 of 2)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Role of the State
• China

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Apple
• Huawei

 -----------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about my interviews with Lazada CEO James Dong and CTO Howard Wang. Here are my 3 three take-aways.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

————

Related articles:

• JD’s Emerging Competitive Advantages? (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Daily Lesson / Update)
• JD’s Is Making a Big Strategic Move into the Low-Cost Market (2 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Southeast Asia
• Ecommerce

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Lazada

————

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Huawei's new AI tech stack, which is impressive in its ability to provide end-to-end solutions. Also their new "All Intelligence" Strategy.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

If you’re interested in talking digital strategy and transformation for your business, contact us at TechMoat Consulting.

———

Related articles:

• What TikTok Can Learn From Huawei About the Role of the State (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Podcast 39)
• How Tsingtao, CR Snow and the Other Beer SOEs Won Big in China (Pt 2 of 2)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Cloud
• Digital and AI Transformation

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Huawei

———-

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about digital and AI agents. This will lead to the emergence of non-human platforms and business models.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here is the podcast mentioned. 

—–--

Related articles:

• AutoGPT and Other Tech I Am Super Excited About (Tech Strategy – Podcast 162)
• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• GPT and Generative AI: AutoGPT
• Digital Marathon: Zero human operations
• Digital vs. Human Agents
• Platform Business Models: Non-Human Platforms and Business Models

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• OpenAI / ChatGPT
• AgentGPT

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about 5G and 5.5G (also called 5G-Advanced). This is a short-list of scenarios where they are going to have a big impact.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here are the 5 scenarios:

• Glasses Free 3D
• Self-Guided Vehicles 
• Next Gen Manufacturing
• Cellular IoT
• Intelligent Computing Everywhere

---------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Singles Day, which is coming up fast. Lots of stuff gets reported. But I am looking for 3 main things.

1: What is the fastest growing and most innovative frontier of ecommerce?

2: What are the big new bundles for consumers and the new products / services for merchants?

3: How did the company do in the stress test?

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

–—-

Related articles:

• AutoGPT and Other Tech I Am Super Excited About (Tech Strategy – Podcast 162)
• The Winners and Losers in ChatGPT (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• Why ChatGPT and Generative AI Are a Mortal Threat to Disney, Netflix and Most Hollywood Studios (Tech Strategy – Podcast 150)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Singles Day

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Alibaba

----------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is an introductory explanation to Rate of Learning (and Adaptation). This is an increasingly important concept in digital strategy.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Big tech events from this week:

• Expanded export ban for GPUs to China (here)
• Eureka AI training robots in advanced tasks (here)
• iQIYI signs deal with Thailand's Tourism Authority (here)

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

——------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Part 1 of an introductory explanation for the Digital Operating Basics. This is a very useful framework for thinking about digital transformation.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here is my summary of digital operating basics (Dr. Ram’s book combined with some of my own thinking):

1. Rapid Growth at Small Incremental Cost. And Without Constraints.
2. Never-Ending Personalization and Customer Improvements.
3. Digital Core for Management and Operations.
4. Connectedness, Interoperability and Coordination-Based Operating Models (Including Platforms and Ecosystems).
5. Leadership and Management.
6. People, Culture and Teams.
7. Sustainable Cash Engine that Scales

--------

Related articles:

• Lessons in Digital Operating Basics from Ram Charan. Part 1 of 2 on “Rethinking Competitive Advantage”. (Asia Tech Strategy – Podcast 98)
• Meituan vs. Ctrip vs. Alibaba: Who Will Win in China Services? (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Podcast 22)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Digital Operating Basics

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Part 2 of an introductory explanation for the Digital Operating Basics. This is a very useful framework for thinking about digital transformation.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here is my summary of digital operating basics (Dr. Ram’s book combined with some of my own thinking):

1. Rapid Growth at Small Incremental Cost. And Without Constraints.
2. Never-Ending Personalization and Customer Improvements.
3. Digital Core for Management and Operations.
4. Connectedness, Interoperability and Coordination-Based Operating Models (Including Platforms and Ecosystems).
5. Leadership and Management.
6. People, Culture and Teams.
7. Sustainable Cash Engine that Scales

——–


I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is part of a company deep dive into Arm Holdings.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

Here is my summary of the 4 big digital concepts behind Arm Holdings:

• Standardization and Interconnection Network Effects
• Indirect Network Effects by linkage with Operating System Innovation Platform
• Economies of Scale in R&D
• Switching Costs, including Criticality with Semiconductor and OEM Companies

 
I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is part two of a deep dive into Arm Holdings. About how China and AI are external factors impacting its future trajectory.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the China Tech Tour.

——–

Photo by Vishnu Mohanan on Unsplash

------
 
I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Salesforce, Inc. It focuses on the biggest competitive strengths of the company.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here are the comments by Eddie Wu at Alibaba:

• Aliviews: Eddie Wu on Alibaba’s Q2 Earnings

——–

Related articles:

• A Digital Strategy Breakdown of Salesforce. Spoiler: It’s Awesome (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• A Strategy Breakdown of Arm Holdings (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Digital Concepts Powering ARM Holdings (2 of 4) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• SaaS
• Switching Costs: Financial, Procedural, Relational and Risk
• Economies of Scale: Fixed Costs: Specialized, Cumulative and Niche
• Enterprise Software: CRM

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Salesforce Inc

---------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Part 1 of Capabilities, Resources and Assets (CRAs). They are a key part of strategy. And link operating performance with structural advantages.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to our China Tech Tour.

Key points:

Point 1: Operating performance and structural advantage are separate parts of strategy and management.

Point 2: But they are also linked. By a select list of capabilities, resources, and assets (CRAs)

Point 3: Operating activities create and maintain CRAs, which can be tangible and intangible.

Point 4: Sometimes CRAs can manifest as competitive advantages and barriers to entry.

Point 5: CEOs need to identify moats. And then chart a path of critical CRAs to build and rebuild them. 

—---–

Related articles:

• Lessons in Digital Operating Basics from Ram Charan. Part 1 of 2 on “Rethinking Competitive Advantage”. (Asia Tech Strategy – Podcast 98)
• Meituan vs. Ctrip vs. Alibaba: Who Will Win in China Services? (Jeff’s Asia Tech Class – Podcast 22)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• Capabilities, Resources and Assets
• Intangible Assets
• Serial Moats

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• n/a

——-----

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Verisign, Inc (Nasdaq: VRSN). It focuses on the biggest factors for the future of the company.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

——–

Related articles:

• A Digital Strategy Breakdown of Salesforce. Spoiler: It’s Awesome (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• A Strategy Breakdown of Arm Holdings (1 of 3) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)
• 3 Digital Concepts Powering ARM Holdings (2 of 4) (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

From the Concept Library, concepts for this article are:

• CA16: State-Granted Competitive Advantages
• Standardization Network Effects
• Substitutes

From the Company Library, companies for this article are:

• Verisign Inc

---------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into BYD. And about how Chinese manufacturers go international.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the article on the AI influencer.

———–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Photo by P. L. on Unsplash

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Facebook Meta. And how I break down the business model and the key factors.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

The 5-6 factors mentioned are:

• People networks
• Audience-builder platforms
• Limited ecosystems
• Profit vs engagement products
• Hierarchies of control
• Substitutes

 Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

———–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Etsy. And how it is leaning into the creativity and human connection aspects of marketplaces.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here are my 5 questions (thus far) for assessing the viability of a specialty ecommerce company.

1. Is the company sufficiently differentiated in the user experience?
2. Can the company compete and/or differentiate in logistics or infrastructure without ongoing spending?
3. Does the company have a strong competitive advantage in a circumscribed market?
4. Is there a clear path to significant operational cash flow?
5. Has the company avoided markets and situations that are attractive or strategic for the major ecommerce companies?

Here are the mentioned articles and podcasts:

Etsy and How to Predict the Winners in Specialty Ecommerce (Tech Strategy – Daily Article)

Pinduoduo, Etsy, and OTC: How Specialty Ecommerce Can Thrive Against the Giants. (Tech Strategy – Podcast 97)

———–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Automatic Data Processing (ADP), a leading provider of software and services for human resources.

ADP is a company that is surprisingly well positioned to use AI to better manage human capital and build non-human workforces.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Alibaba Cloud, a leading provider of cloud and intelligence services. They recently had an AI and Big Data Summit in Singapore.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

———–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Baidu Cloud, a leading provider of cloud and intelligence services. And arguably China's AI leader.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

———–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into Reddit, the "community of communities, driven by interests and passions".

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

----------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a deep dive into iQIYI's activities in generative AI, which is a natural evolution from their long focus on digital transformation.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

———

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is part 2 of a deep dive into Baidu Cloud, a leading provider of cloud and intelligence services. And arguably China’s AI leader.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here are the four pillars:

• Pillar 1: Baidu AI Cloud Is an Innovation Platform Pushing to Reach Critical Mass
• Pillar 2: Baidu AI Cloud Is Also Moving to Become a Technology Standard Deeper in the AI Tech Stack
• Pillar 3: Baidu’s AI-Focused Cloud Has 2 Advantages Over Other Innovation Platforms
• Pillar 4: Baidu's AI Cloud Is a Flywheel in Industry-Specific Intelligence

 ------------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Part 2 of Capabilities, Resources and Assets (CRAs). They are a key part of strategy. And link operating performance with structural advantages. Here is Part 1.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Key points:

Point 1: Operating performance and structural advantage are separate parts of strategy and management.

Point 2: But they are also linked. By a select list of capabilities, resources, and assets (CRAs)

Point 3: Operating activities create and maintain CRAs, which can be tangible and intangible.

Point 4: Sometimes CRAs can manifest as competitive advantages and barriers to entry.

Point 5: CEOs need to identify moats. And then chart a path of critical CRAs to build and rebuild them.

McKinsey’s Framework for Intangible Assets

• Innovation / Creative Assets. 

• Digital and Analytics Assets. 

• Human and Relational Assets. This has two sub-types. This is any time, effort or money spent on:
  • Building individual or organizational skills through training within an organization. 
  • Building ecosystems and networks external the organization is also important. 

• Brand Assets. 

——–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about how auto companies are changing into digital business models. Specifically, it is about three archetype business models we can see in BYD, Xiaomi and Tesla.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

The 3 EV business models are:

• EV Business Model 1 (i.e., BYD) is “Manufacturing Plus Services”. That’s Autos Plus Auto Services. Plus Linked Battery Manufacturing.
• EV Business Model 2 (i.e., Xiaomi) is a “Manufacturing Plus a Consumption Ecosystem”. That’s Auto (Plus Auto Services) Plus Digital Services”.
• EV Business Model 3 (i.e., Tesla) is “Manufacturing Plus AI Services”

----------

Support the show

This week’s podcast is a framework for thinking about AI Strategy. And an intro to the AI Tech Stack.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

——-

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Part 2 on my framework for AI Strategy. Part 1 was in Podcast 203.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting. Which has the details for the Beijing Tech Tour.

-------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about two interesting parts of the new GenAI Tech Stack. 

• The data infrastructure layer. Where Huawei is a leader.
• Agent and model building. Where Baidu is a leader.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

——-

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about ownership vs. access business models. It's a good framework for thinking about digital disruptors such as Airbnb, Uber and Mobike.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

———-

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Alibaba and what they are doing in Generative AI.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Cheers, Jeff

--------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about our Beijing Tech Tour. And my 3 main lessons.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

My lessons are:

• JD is flooding money into logistics tech. Increasingly globally.
• Huawei is showing the future for turnkey digital infrastructure.
• iQIYI likely the future business model for movies and tv.

Cheers, Jeff

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about iQIYI's tech strategy.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Cheers, Jeff

---------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is Step 2 in my playbook for CEOs and investors in Generative AI.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

—---—

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about where GenAI and intelligence capabilities can create barriers to entry (not competitive advantages).

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the Tech Tour.

—–--

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Microsoft and how they use bundles to beat competitors. As Slack found out.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the Tech Tour.

Here is the link to the All In Podcast mentioned. The Microsoft discussion happens at 1 hour and 3 minutes.

—–

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

Today's podcast is part of a new series on Growth Tactics, where we talk to digital businesses that are winning. And dig into what worked and what didn't.

Our first episode is an interview with Alex Lee, the CEO and co-founder of beauty brand and DTC ecommerce site Depology.

After years of struggle as a small ecommerce site, Alex pivoted to beauty and skin care products in 2019. And then grew rapidly to $10M in revenue in ten months. And within 3 years, Depology had grown to $20M in sales.

That's awesome. I talked with Alex about how they did it. What growth tactics worked? Which didn't?

It was a fun discussion with quite a few valuable lessons. Plus, it's great to see a former MBA student of mine doing so well.

----------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Constellation Software. And their approach to software investing.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the Tech Tour.

On the Constellation webpage, they actually list their criteria for both “exceptional” and “good” companies. Here’s what they say.

• Exceptional businesses
  • Mid-to-large vertical market software businesses. With greater than $1M EBITDA.
  • Consistent earnings and growth. Constellation has a good equation for this:
    • EBITDA/Revenue + Revenue Growth = 20%
  • Experienced and committed management.
• Good businesses
  • #1 or 2 in a niche vertical market
  • Revenue over $5M
  • Hundreds or thousands of customers
  • “Unimposing” competitors

Constellation is an interesting company to follow if you invest in tech companies. Just follow their transactions. They do lots of them and you can learn a lot.

Cheers, Jeff

-------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about a common playbook for a digital attacker (whether a digital native or incumbent).

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the Tech Tour.

Here are the 3 steps of the digital attacker strategy.

• Step 1: A new digital tool enables a superior service to emerge. This is used to break into an existing business. This often causes an unbundling of the existing offerings.
• Step 2: Existing value chains get transformed. Everyone scrambles to grab the valuable positions.
• Step 3: The new leaders add services, complements and bundles.

------------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show

This week’s podcast is about Salesforce and how generative AI is going to impact its business.

You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.

Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.

Here is the link to the Tech Tour.

Here are my 3 working conclusions.

• GenAI is going into their existing services, which are used by teams at their clients. Salesforce is well positioned for this.
• GenAI is going to get incorporated into the workflows of their clients. This requires an AI tech stack, which Salesforce does not have. AI Cloud companies are building this and offering it as a service. This is a problem.
• AI Agents are emerging and this will change the workforce of CRM within companies. This is a big problem for Salesforce. Competitor Microsoft is well positioned here.

 --------

I write, speak and consult about how to win (and not lose) in digital strategy and transformation.

I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a boutique consulting firm that helps retailers, brands, and technology companies exploit digital change to grow faster, innovate better and build digital moats. Get in touch here.

My book series Moats and Marathons is one-of-a-kind framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.

Note: This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. Investing is risky. Do your own research.

Support the show