VanEck Introduces $30M Fund to Foster Innovation in Fintech, Crypto, and AI
VanEck Ventures Launches $30 Million Early-Stage Fund Focused on Fintech, Digital Assets, and AI Startups
New York, NY, USA – October 9, 2024
VanEck Ventures has announced the launch of a new $30 million early-stage fund aimed at investing in innovative startups in the fintech, digital assets, and artificial intelligence sectors. This initiative marks VanEck’s strategic move into venture capital, building on its established expertise in identifying transformative investment opportunities early in their development.
The fund emphasizes investments in pre-seed and seed stages, targeting visionary founders pushing the boundaries of financial technologies and markets through emerging technologies like blockchain and AI. Jan van Eck, CEO of VanEck, expressed the firm’s commitment to fostering disruptive companies in fintech. “Our investment philosophy has always centered around recognizing transformative opportunities. This fund is an extension of that vision into early-stage ventures,” he stated.
VanEck Ventures is particularly focused on supporting category-defining projects that leverage innovative applications and maintain an infrastructure-agnostic approach. Key investment themes include tokenized assets, internet-native financial marketplaces, and next-generation payment systems that utilize stablecoins and tokenized capital markets.
The fund is led by seasoned investors Wyatt Lonergan and Juan Lopez, who previously managed Circle Ventures, the venture arm of Circle, where they invested over $50 million in early-stage companies. Their extensive experience, coupled with VanEck’s reputation in asset management, positions the fund as an advantageous partner for emerging startups. Support from VanEck’s global workforce and senior leadership will enhance operational and advisory capabilities for portfolio companies.
Wyatt Lonergan highlighted the significant shifts in the financial landscape, stating, “Three key inflection points are reshaping the internet’s foundation: stablecoins as an open-source banking layer, the commoditization of blockspace, and AI advancements. The convergence of these innovations is creating unprecedented opportunities for user-centric financial experiences.”
VanEck Ventures plans to make between 25 and 35 investments, with individual commitments ranging from $500,000 to $1 million. The fund claims to have already completed four investments that have yet to be disclosed.
Juan Lopez remarked on the exciting potential of stablecoins and decentralized applications, noting that this is an unparalleled time for development in the financial technology landscape. “We aim to be long-term partners to the bold founders shaping the next phase of blockchain utility,” he stated.
About VanEck
VanEck has a rich history of identifying the trends that create impactful investment opportunities. The firm was among the first U.S. asset managers to offer access to international markets, establishing a legacy that includes early investments in gold, emerging markets, and exchange-traded funds.
Today, VanEck manages approximately $113.9 billion in assets, offering a range of active and passive investment strategies. The firm’s commitment to putting client interests first has been integral to its mission since its founding in 1955.
General Disclosures
This announcement does not constitute an offer or recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments mentioned. Potential investors should carefully evaluate the investment objectives, risks, and expenses before making decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and investing in the fund carries substantial risks, including the possibility of losing the entire investment.
Investments in the fund are speculative and involve significant risks such as market volatility, limited liquidity, and regulatory uncertainties. Current investment opportunities and financial instruments may not be suitable for every investor, and individuals should consult with a qualified advisor to assess their individual situation.