Major Players in Blockchain Investment
Who knew banks and tech firms could have a tech crush? Financial titans like Goldman Sachs, Citi, and Google are leading the charge in blockchain investments, securing their spots among the top five corporate investors in this futuristic technology. Right behind them, the Japanese consortium SBI Holdings and online retailer Overstock.com are also making some waves.
Why Are Financial Services All In?
It seems that the banks (you know, those folks you trust with your coffee money) weren’t just waking up from a nap—they were quick to recognize the relevance of blockchain technology. According to reports, financial services were the pioneers, diving headfirst into direct investments as they realized how Bitcoin’s foundations could support their business models. After all, who wouldn’t want to be the first kid on the blockchain block?
The Growth of Blockchain Investments
The blockchain party is getting crowded, with 91 major companies joining in by mid-October 2017. That’s just stepping on the toes of the 95 active venture capital investors out there! More than half of these corporate investors are global financial institutions getting in on the action.
- Total investments in blockchain tech: $327 million in 2017 alone.
- U.S. banks’ contributions: A whopping $267 million pooled in by the top 10.
Curves and Curiosities in Investment Trends
From 2012 through 2017, total investments in blockchain reached $1.2 billion, indicating it’s not just a passing fad—it’s got staying power. As companies keep pouring cash into this innovative ecosystem, it’s like upgrading from flip phones to smartphones—everyone just wants in!
“Big banks and financial services firms were the first corporate players to make direct Blockchain investments en masse.” – CB Insights
What’s Driving This Investment Surge?
CB Insights isn’t just spinning tales. Their data crunchers focus on analyzing financial markets, keeping tabs on companies, and understanding emerging trends. With a venture capital database that’s as detailed as a chef’s recipe, they’re helping investors whip up informed decisions about blockchain and other technology trends.
