
DeFiance Capital
Description
DeFiance Capital is a prominent Singapore-based cryptoasset fund, founded by Arthur Cheong, with a specialized focus on the burgeoning Decentralized Finance (DeFi) ecosystem. Established as a dedicated Web3 investment vehicle, the firm extends its interests beyond core DeFi protocols to encompass broader Web3 infrastructure, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and GameFi projects. Its strategic positioning in Singapore allows it to tap into Asia's vibrant blockchain landscape while maintaining a global investment purview.
The firm distinguishes itself through a highly active and hands-on investment approach. DeFiance Capital is not merely a passive capital provider; it often takes a significant role in the governance of its portfolio projects, leveraging its expertise to guide strategic development and foster ecosystem growth. This deep engagement reflects its long-term conviction in the transformative potential of decentralized technologies and its commitment to building robust, sustainable ventures within the Web3 space.
As of early 2022, DeFiance Capital was reported to manage approximately $500 million in assets under management (AUM), underscoring its substantial presence in the crypto venture capital landscape. The fund primarily targets early-stage opportunities, seeking to identify and back foundational projects that are poised to shape the future of decentralized applications. In a testament to its continued growth and ambition, the firm also targeted a new fundraise of $100 million in 2022, aiming to further expand its investment capacity and deepen its reach into innovative Web3 initiatives.
DeFiance Capital's investment philosophy emphasizes fundamental analysis and a deep understanding of blockchain technology, rather than speculative trading. This approach positions it as a strategic partner for founders building next-generation decentralized applications, offering not just capital but also critical industry insights and network access. Its portfolio reflects a diverse array of pioneering projects across various sub-sectors of the decentralized economy.
Investor Profile
DeFiance Capital has backed more than 71 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 13 rounds, about 18% of its total and boasts 3 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series Unknown, Series A rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Singapore, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, Financial Services.
- Typical check size: $250K – $5M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (54%)
- Series Unknown (18%)
- Series A (13%)
- Initial Coin Offering (10%)
- Pre Seed (3%)
- Series C (1%)
- Series B (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (32%)
- Singapore (24%)
- United Kingdom (7%)
- Canada (6%)
- China (4%)
- Hong Kong (3%)
- Taiwan (3%)
- France (3%)
- Liberia (1%)
- Saint Kitts and Nevis (1%)
Industry Focus
- Blockchain
- Cryptocurrency
- Financial Services
- Fintech
- Finance
- Gaming
- Information Technology
- Web3
- Software
- Internet
Frequently Asked Questions
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