2026 Big Tech Themes: Insights from Slow Ventures' Lessin on CNBC's The Exchange

This report draws from CNBC’s “The Exchange” segment [1] where Slow Ventures’ Sam Lessin discussed 2026 Big Tech themes. Though the exact segment content couldn’t be accessed, broader VC industry trends likely aligning with Lessin’s insights include: AI sector correction (filtering weak players), defense tech growth, embodied AI development, vertical AI applications, AR/VR advancements, and expansion of the training data market [0].

Current market performance (as of the event timestamp) shows mixed index results: Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) +1.32%, S&P 500 +0.17%, NASDAQ Composite -0.33%, and Russell 2000 +1.46% [0]. Sector performance is divided, with Industrials (+2.76%) and Financials (+2.74%) leading, while Technology (-0.24%), Healthcare (-0.87%), Energy (-3.02%), and Utilities (-3.94%) lag [0]. Microsoft (MSFT) made recent strategic moves: acquiring AI data platform Osmos to enhance its Fabric platform, expanding the Xbox app to select Hisense and V homeOS-powered smart TVs, and announcing Windows 11 SE support will end in 2026 [0].

The lagging Technology sector (reflected in NASDAQ’s -0.33% performance) aligns with projected AI sector correction themes, suggesting market concerns about less differentiated AI players [0]. Microsoft’s acquisition of Osmos reflects industry focus on AI infrastructure and vertical AI applications, positioning the company to capitalize on emerging trends [0].

The projected AI sector correction poses a risk to weaker AI players, potentially driving market consolidation [0]. Opportunities exist in high-growth areas like defense tech, embodied AI, and the training data market, expected to attract significant 2026 investment [0]. The Technology sector’s current lag may present long-term entry points for investors focused on strong AI-enabled companies like Microsoft [0].

This analysis combines insights from a CNBC segment [1] and broader VC trends [0], highlighting 2026 tech themes and current market performance. Microsoft’s strategic announcements indicate its commitment to AI and ecosystem expansion. The Technology sector’s lag is consistent with projected AI sector correction, while Industrials and Financials lead the market.