It’s no secret that blockchain technology is hot right now. Nearly every industry is exploring how blockchain can be used to streamline processes and create new opportunities. And it’s not just startups that are investing in blockchain – large enterprises are getting involved too.
According to a recent report from CB Insights, the amount of money flowing into blockchain startups has reached an all-time high. In the first quarter of 2018, blockchain companies raised a total of $1.3 billion from venture capitalists. That’s more than the total amount raised in all of 2017!
So why are VCs so eager to invest in blockchain? And how are these companies using all this funding?
To answer these questions, let’s take a closer look at some of the most well-funded blockchain companies out there.
1. Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges in the world. The company has raised a total of $217 million from VC firms like Andreesen Horowitz, Union Square Ventures, and DFJ Growth.
Coinbase is using its funding to expand its cryptocurrency exchange beyond just Bitcoin. The company recently added support for Ethereum and Litecoin, and it plans to add more coins in the future. Coinbase is also working on building out its infrastructure so that it can handle more trades and provide a better experience for users.
2. Circle
Circle is a financial services company that’s using blockchain to make it easier for people to send and receive money. The company has raised $140 million from investors like Goldman Sachs, Baidu, and IDG Capital.
Circle is using its funding to build products that make it easier for people to use blockchain-based currencies. For example, the company recently launched a cryptocurrency investing app called Circle Invest. The app makes it easy for people to buy and sell cryptocurrencies without having to worry about the complicated underlying technology.
3. Ripple
Ripple is a blockchain company that’s trying to make it easier for banks to send money across borders. The company has raised $93 million from investors like Google Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, and Peter Thiel.
Ripple is using its funding to build a network of banks that are using blockchain to send money. The company is also working on a product called xCurrent, which is a blockchain-based system that allows banks to track money transfers in real-time.
4. Blockstream
Blockstream is a blockchain company that’s working on a number of different projects to help make blockchain technology more accessible. The company has raised $76 million from investors like Khosla Ventures, Horizons Ventures, and AXA Strategic Ventures.
Blockstream is using its funding to work on a number of different projects. For example, the company is working on a project called Blockstream Satellite, which is a system that broadcasts blockchain data from space so that people in remote areas can access it. Blockstream
Other related questions:
Q: What companies have invested in blockchain?
A: Some of the companies that have invested in blockchain technology include IBM, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon.
Q: How many companies are using blockchain?
A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the number of companies using blockchain technology varies depending on the specific industry and application. However, a recent study by Deloitte found that nearly one-third of companies surveyed are already using blockchain technology, and another one-third are considering its use in the future.
Q: How are blockchain projects funded?
A: There are a few different ways that blockchain projects can be funded. One way is through initial coin offerings (ICOs), which is a form of crowdfunding. ICOs are typically used to raise funds for early-stage projects, and investors can purchase tokens that can be used on the project’s platform. Another way to fund a blockchain project is through traditional venture capital (VC) funding. In this case, VC firms invest money in exchange for equity in the company. Finally, some projects may be self-funded by the team behind the project.
Q: Who funded blockchain?
A: There is no one specific entity that funded blockchain technology. Instead, it was created through the collaborative efforts of a community of developers and enthusiasts.