A Strategic Bet on Crypto: Theta Blockchain Ventures IV

Amsterdam-based Theta Capital Management has launched its new $175 million fund, named Theta Blockchain Ventures IV, with the goal of empowering early-stage blockchain startups through seasoned crypto VC firms. The fund specifically targets investment managers with a deep understanding of the blockchain ecosystem.

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“We’ve always looked for areas where specialization offers a sustainable edge,” said managing partner Ruud Smets. Theta, which pivoted toward digital assets in 2018, has backed top crypto investors like Polychain Capital, CoinFund, and Castle Island Ventures.

Crypto VC Rebounds as Market Confidence Grows

The announcement coincides with signs of revival in crypto venture capital. According to Galaxy Digital, VC funding for digital assets surged by 54% in Q1 2025, reaching $4.8 billion. Although deal count declined year-over-year, the capital inflow doubled compared to Q1 2024, signaling renewed investor confidence.

PitchBook data reveals that most capital was funneled into asset management, trading platforms, and crypto financial services — totaling $2.55 billion across only 16 deals. Infrastructure and development firms followed with nearly $955 million, while Web3 companies secured $231.2 million across 23 deals.

Looking ahead, Circle’s anticipated IPO may become the sector’s next pivotal moment. If it exceeds the rumored $4–$5 billion valuation, experts believe it could attract significant late-stage capital and reshape the valuation landscape. With $1.18 billion in VC raised, PitchBook estimates a 64% likelihood that Circle will go public.

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Here’s what you need to know about Crypto

The Japanese cabinet has approved a revision to the Act on Strengthening Industrial Competitiveness, which will add cryptocurrencies to the list of assets that local investment limited partnerships can hold. This essentially allows VCs to invest in startups that issue cryptocurrencies as their primary token.

Previously, Japanese VCs couldn’t invest directly in crypto assets, forcing local projects to seek funding from foreign investors. This new policy opens up a significant pool of domestic capital for Web3 startups, boosting their funding opportunities and potentially accelerating their growth.

This move falls under Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s “new capitalism” agenda, which aims to cultivate a thriving Web3 industry in Japan. Additionally, the government recently amended its tax regime to potentially exempt companies from paying taxes on unrealized crypto profits, further creating a more favorable environment for the sector.

The post Japan Opens Doors for VC Investment in Crypto and Web3 Startups appeared first on Coin Engineer.