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PT

Peter Thiel

03/23/17

@ Y Combinator

If you're starting a company, always aim for monopoly and avoid competition; competition is for losers.

Video

YC

Competition is for Losers with Peter Thiel (How to Start a Startup 2014: 5)

@ Y Combinator

Competition is for Losers with Peter Thiel (How to Start a Startup 2014: 5)

03/23/17

Related Takeaways

PT

Peter Thiel

04/02/15

@ Mercatus Center

I think the goal of every successful business should be to achieve a monopoly, as this is crucial for long-term success.

KH

Kevin Hale

07/26/19

@ Y Combinator

Having a monopoly means that as your company grows, it becomes increasingly difficult for competitors to defeat you, often due to network effects.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

02/08/25

@ Y Combinator

Founders should not shy away from competitive spaces, as many successful companies have emerged from crowded markets.

BS

Bipul Sinha

06/06/25

@ The Logan Bartlett Show

When starting a company, it's essential to have a strong belief in your non-consensus ideas, as they often lead to significant market advantages.

RH

Reid Hoffman

10/15/14

@ Y Combinator

When starting a company in a noisy environment, entrepreneurs should focus on breaking through the noise and consider doing something contrarian to stand out.

PT

Peter Thiel

03/23/17

@ Y Combinator

The critical aspect of a monopoly is not just achieving it but maintaining it over time; being the last mover in a category is often more valuable than being the first.

JF

Jared Friedman

11/18/22

@ Y Combinator

Having competition is often a good sign for a startup idea, as it indicates that there is a market, but you need a new insight to compete effectively against entrenched players.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

05/18/24

@ Y Combinator

You should focus on creating something that people want rather than just trying to start a startup; this mindset is crucial for success.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

01/13/21

@ Y Combinator

The odds are stacked against you when building a company, as competitors often have more money, people, time, and resources.