Elad Gil, co‑host of the “No Priors” podcast, warned founders that a company’s peak value often sits in a 12‑month window before a sharp decline. He cited classic exits like AOL and Broadcast.com, noting that those who recognize this timing capture generational returns.

Gil recommends scheduling annual board meetings dedicated to exit strategy. By treating the topic as a routine agenda item, emotions recede and decisions become data‑driven. In today’s AI‑driven market, where foundational models still lag in niche sectors, timing could decide whether a startup exits at a record valuation or misses the window.

Founder Alex Bouaziz of Deel echoes this sentiment, joking that payroll services won’t last forever as AI expands. Gil’s point is clear: as differentiation shifts, ask whether the next six months represent the highest valuation you’ll ever reach. Executives who heed this advice can lock in value before the inevitable crash.

Investors watching the AI boom should note that the 12‑month rule applies broadly, not just to tech giants. Firms that act quickly stand to secure outsized gains.