Top VCs on the AI frenzy, SpaceX IPO and where opportunity remains

At the StrictlyVC event in Athens, Niko Bonatsos of Verdict Capital, Andreas Stavropoulos of Threshold Ventures and Ben Blume of Atomico spoke about the current state of venture investing, the wave of mega-IPOs that SpaceX is set to kick off, and where they still see opportunity.

The discussion was edited for length and clarity. With SpaceX reportedly eyeing a $1.75 trillion valuation at IPO, Stavropoulos likened the moment to the Google IPO, calling it an enabling event that can bring new entrepreneurs into the market. Blume said large liquidity events recycle wealth back into new companies, while Bonatsos pointed to examples of immigrant founders and early investments — noting his co-founder was the first investor in what is now known as Cursor and referenced recent news around Elon Musk — as signs that big wins can inspire the next generation.

Greece, Athens

venture capital, spacex ipo, spacex valuation, mega ipos, niko bonatsos, andreas stavropoulos, ben blume, liquidity events, immigrant founders, cursor