Capital Evolution - by Seth Levine & Elizabeth MacBride (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

An in-depth look at the shifts redefining the American business landscape, revealing how and why today's trends could usher in a new Golden Age of Capitalism that fosters shared prosperity and sustainable growth--if we are wise enough to seize this opportunity to evolve.

America's economic infrastructure is in the midst of a profound transformation. After decades of prioritizing shareholder value above all else, companies are now embracing a broader set of values--reshaping not only business strategies but also capitalism itself. Capitalism has always been a dynamic system, and we find ourselves today at yet another critical turning point in its evolution.

Capital Evolution is a compelling look at how companies are adapting to address modern challenges, from climate change to the erosion of the middle class. Drawing on interviews from dozens of CEOs, academics, and thought leaders, venture capitalist and author Seth Levine and journalist Elizabeth MacBride shepherd readers through the complex history of global capitalism and outline the key changes facing leaders in a transformed system, including:

An emerging business imperative: Why companies are now prioritizing long-term impact over short-term profits Shifting goals: How to navigate new expectations and pressure from both the political left and the political right around the role of businesses in society Growing political divides: How businesses are balancing stakeholder demands with rising political tension, all while staying true to their core values

Capitalism is no stranger to criticism, but today's companies are redefining what it means to be successful, increasingly taking responsibility for their impact on society and acknowledging the needs of employees, communities, and the environment alike. Capital Evolution is a call for all of us to recognize that a sustainable, thriving economy truly benefits everyone--and a preview of what that new future might look like in the years to come.

About the Author

A long-time venture capitalist, Seth Levine works with venture funds and companies around the globe. His day job is as a partner at Foundry, a Boulder, CO based venture capital firm he cofounded in 2006 which has nearly $4 billion in assets under management. Easily distracted and a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, Seth also spends time as an advisor to venture funds and companies around the world. He cofounded Pledge 1%, a global network of companies who have pledged equity, time, and product back to their local communities. He is the board chair of EforAll Colorado which partners with the local community to foster small business and has previously served on the boards of the Unreasonable Institute and StartupColorado. Seth is a Trustee of Macalester College in St. Paul, MN, where he helped found their entrepreneurship program as well as a popular student hackathon (the "Macathon"). He also works with a number of funds and companies - especially in the Middle East and Africa - to help promote entrepreneurship and economic development. A passionate cyclist, above-average skier, and general fan of all things outdoors, Seth and his wife live in Colorado with their three children. He is the coauthor of The New Builders.

Elizabeth MacBride is a journalist, author and expert in finance, investing and technology. She is an advocate for a fair, accessible financial system and policies that support women's economic power. She has written or edited for Quartz, Forbes Magazine, Atlantic, Stanford GSB, CNBC, BBC, Newsweek and many others, and is the co-author of two previous books: The Little Book of Robo Investing, the latest in the acclaimed Wiley series and The New Builders.