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The hunt for AI-proof assets is leading investors to sports, casinos and travel

Saturday, September 5, 2026 12:10 PM
Photo: Shutterstock
  • Kate Clark, The Wall Street Journal

Venture capital is usually associated with moonshot technology bets. Lately, though, some venture investors have found new, more analog pursuits: sports teams, iconic real estate and even children’s toys.

Investors are looking for opportunities insulated from the AI boom, including businesses built around human experiences that ChatGPT can’t replace.

Josh Kushner, founder of investment firm Thrive Capital, is among the investors who have recently acquired stakes in some of America’s leading sports franchises, including the San Francisco Giants and a $12.5 billion deal that made the Los Angeles Lakers the most valuable sports team ever.