Dubai, UAE – Sigma Capital, a Web3 early-stage venture capital (VC) firm operating across the GCC, has announced the launch of a US$100 million fund aimed at accelerating Web3 innovation in the Middle East and globally. The fund will focus on early-stage investments in decentralized finance (DeFi), blockchain infrastructure, real-world asset tokenization, gaming, and the metaverse.
The fund will actively manage a portfolio of liquid tokens to seize market opportunities and generate consistent returns. It will also leverage high-yield DeFi strategies to optimize portfolio performance and invest in high-growth crypto venture funds to broaden exposure to emerging innovations.
Leadership and Vision
The fund will be led by Vineet Budki, a recognized leader in the Web3 space. As the former CEO and Managing Partner at Cypher Capital, Budki oversaw over 300 investments in high-profile projects, including Mysten Labs, Sei Network, Casper Labs, Web3Auth, Manta Network, Mocaverse, Peak Network, and MyPetHooligan. “We envision a digital economy that is more open, inclusive, and innovative,” Budki said. “The UAE’s dynamic economy and forward-thinking regulatory environment provide the perfect backdrop for Web3 innovation. This fund empowers startups with capital, equips them with access to our extensive network and expertise, and enables them to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.”
Deployment Strategy
Over the next three years, Sigma Capital plans to:
- Deploy investments across 100 early-stage projects.
- Manage 25 liquid tokens.
- Allocate funds to 10 fund-of-fund investments.
The firm’s strategic advantage lies in its proven expertise and global reach. Sigma Capital’s network offers access to key exchanges, market makers, launchpads, and opinion leaders, making it a pivotal player in the blockchain investment ecosystem.
Strategic Collaborations and Global Reach
Sigma Capital’s team boasts extensive experience in blockchain investments and partnerships with leading players like Polygon Technology, Morningstar Ventures, Blockchain Founders Fund, and Woodstock Fund. The firm’s dual presence in Dubai and Singapore, combined with regulatory oversight from the Cayman Islands, enables access to global opportunities while maintaining a strong compliance framework.
Sandeep Naliwal, founder of Polygon Technology, praised Budki’s leadership. “The launch of Sigma Capital’s $100 million fund is a testament to his expertise and the UAE’s emergence as a global hub for blockchain innovation. I have no doubt this fund will catalyze the next wave of groundbreaking startups and solidify the region’s role in the decentralized economy,” Naliwal said.
Supporting the Web3 Ecosystem
Sigma Capital collaborates with Web3 hubs in 10 global cities, providing portfolio companies with deep market insights and comprehensive support. By combining a diversified investment approach with unparalleled market access, Sigma Capital aims to drive sustainable growth in both the global and GCC Web3 ecosystems.
This announcement underscores the UAE’s position as a global leader in fostering blockchain innovation and positions Sigma Capital as a critical player in shaping the decentralized economy’s future.
Source: Entrepreneur Middle East
