As a fraction of the US GDP, federal investment in research is about half what it was 30 years ago. Industry hasn't taken up the slack, and has closed major research labs. On the other hand, research funding has been growing in absolute terms. Growth may be even slower this year. Regardless of problems, the digital world is likely to outpace the rest of the US economy.
Gorillas dictate standards, control the supply chain, and influence investment patterns.
They also absorb other companies. The same processes operate at lower levels, with smaller gorillas among the lesser companies. Every niche market needs technology standards setters. Once established, a gorilla can maintain dominance by lateral moves into new niches or by changing the standards to force other companies to play catch-up. Most such positions also include stock options.