Follow Web3 news and funding trends with our daily updated dashboard on startups and investment in the Web3, crypto and blockchain sectors, based on Crunchbase’s comprehensive data.
Last updated: 06/20/2026
Eleven companies joined The Crunchbase Unicorn Board in April 2024 — a big jump up from the six companies that joined in April 2023 but still a fraction of the 40 added to the board in April 2022.
![Illustration of a variety of crypto coins. [Dom Guzman]](https://news.crunchbase.com/wp-content/uploads/Crypto_Coins-640x360.jpg)
The Web3 Tracker is a one-stop shop for following Web3 trends, news and data about venture funding and leading investors in the sector.
Web3 refers to the next evolution of the internet primarily built on blockchain technology. While the concept has been around for just under a decade and didn’t enter mainstream usage until a few years ago, the Web3 sector has attracted more than $100 billion in investment, Crunchbase data shows.
Web3: A brief history
Whereas Web 1.0 represents the early days of the internet and its static, heavy content-related nature, Web 2.0 was the maturation of that into a more user-generated network that brought about more utility, sharing and interactivity.
Web3 could be the most significant step yet. The term was coined by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood in 2014 and refers to moving the internet toward decentralized technologies with the promise of increased transparency and accessibility. Proponents say the shift toward Web3 will make the internet open to more innovative technologies and shift power away from large tech companies.
Web3 is an umbrella term used to describe a new iteration of the Internet that’s primarily built on blockchain technology.
While the Internet of today—or Web2—primarily focuses on user generated content, social networking and cloud computing, Web3’s core focus is on decentralization, transparency and accessibility. The technology ushering in this new era was created in response to the centralized nature of the Internet and the perception that a handful of large corporations control what is and isn’t allowed on the web. Web3 proponents say it puts the power back into the hands of users and creates a more open, transparent and accessible Internet ecosystem.
A few examples of Web3 companies in the U.S. include Alchemy, a developer platform that helps companies build reliable decentralized applications; Polygon, a platform for Ethereum scaling and infrastructure development; and Chainlink, a startup that’s focused on making it easier for traditional data sources, such as APIs, to connect with blockchain technology.
The top three Web3 startups by total funding are Block.one, with $4.1 billion raised; Bitstocks Trading Limited, with £1.5 billion ($1.8 billion) raised; and FTX Exchange, with $1.7 billion raised.
The top three startups in the Web3 ecosystem with the highest valuations are FTX Exchange, valued at $32 billion; Blockchain.com, valued at $14 billion; and OpenSea, valued at $13.3 billion.
While Web3 isn’t a technology, there have been innovations created based on what the concept represents: a decentralized internet. An NFT, or non-fungible token, is an example of one such innovation. NFTs allow individuals to claim ownership over digital art and other assets. For example, if you’re an artist, you can turn an art piece into an NFT and sell it on a marketplace like OpenSea. To purchase the NFT, an individual might pay you 5 Ether for ownership rights. Your newly acquired Ether coins could then increase (or decrease) in value based on demand and market conditions.
A cryptocurrency is a digital currency that’s tradeable and uses cryptography to secure transactions. To create more transparency, these transactions are primarily stored on the blockchain, making them completely traceable.
There are a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, each with its own use case. For example, Bitcoin is considered a store of value. Stellar Lumens (also known as XLM), the token created by the Stellar Development Foundation, was created to help individuals transfer money quickly. These cryptocurrencies, and many like them, can be used for things like investing and making purchases.
Note: please do your research before investing in any cryptocurrency or digital asset.
No. Web3 is the name used to describe the innovations that blockchain technology has given rise to. Cryptocurrency is the digital currency used within the blockchain ecosystem.
To understand how Web3 works, first you need to know the basics of blockchain technology. The blockchain is a distributed database, or ledger, that’s not owned by any one entity (decentralization). It stores information, such as cryptocurrency transactions, in a digital format that can’t be edited or deleted (transparency). This information is stored in a “block” that connects to other blocks when it reaches storage capacity limits, creating a chain. Hence the name blockchain.
With the transparent and decentralized nature of the blockchain, developers are now building a new wave of innovative applications that leverage this technology; what is now known as Web3.
Yes. Our Web3 Tracker is a public resource. We do ask that you please cite Crunchbase as the data source and include a link to the Web3 Tracker when possible. For additional press inquiries, email press@crunchbase.com.
Please reach out to support@crunchbase.com if your company’s data needs to be updated or if something is missing.
All of our Web3 news and trends coverage is here.
Digital Asset
$2B
Digital Asset describes itself as a provider of blockchain-based software and services that help institutions build and run distributed applications for finance and other regulated markets. The company offers a smart-contract platform called Daml together with its public blockchain network, Canton Network, enabling enterprises to tokenize real-world assets and manage digital asset lifecycles. Through its tools and developer SDK, clients can deploy applications that support tokenization, clearing and settlement, custody and asset servicing, collateral mobility, digital cash, and other workflows across institutional participants. Digital Asset supports interoperability across multiple systems while preserving privacy and regulatory control for participants.
New York, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 4
Total Funding Amount $847M
Polymarket
$9B
Polymarket enables participants to buy and sell shares that represent the probability of specific outcomes, with prices ranging between zero and one dollar to reflect market expectations. Trades occur in a peer-to-peer order book where users transact directly with one another rather than with a central counterparty. Polymarket uses USDC.e as collateral and represents positions as conditional tokens that are settled through smart contracts on the Polygon blockchain. Event outcomes are resolved through a decentralized oracle process that verifies results before distributing payouts to holders of winning shares. The platform uses a non-custodial model where participants maintain control of their assets through personal wallets while all transactions and positions remain publicly verifiable onchain.
New York, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 3
Total Funding Amount $3B
Ripple
$40B
Ripple provides one frictionless experience to send money globally using the power of blockchain. It offers a global real-time payment system that enables banks and financial institutions around the world to directly transact with each other without the need for a central correspondent. The company also offers FX Market Making, a solution enabling enterprises to gain access to cross-currency liquidity through a distributed network that allows foreign exchange to be externally sourced from a competitive FX marketplace or an internal FX trading desk. This minimizes FX exposure thereby lowering the volatility and counter-party risk of trades. Ripple Insights features industry updates, insider perspectives, and in-depth market analysis.
San Francisco, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 8
Total Funding Amount $794M
GSR
$1B
GSR has nine years of deep crypto market expertise as a market maker, ecosystem partner and active, multi-stage investor. GSR sources and provides spot and non-linear liquidity in digital assets for token issuers, institutional investors, miners, and leading cryptocurrency exchanges. GSR employs over 300 people around the globe, and its trading technology is connected to 60 trading venues, including the world's leading DEXs. We have a culture of approaching complex problems with tenacity and imagination. We build long-term relationships by offering exceptional service, expertise and trading capabilities tailored to the specific needs of our clients.
London, United Kingdom, Europe
Number of Acquisitions 3
Total Funding Amount $0
Kraken
$13B
Kraken is a digital asset exchange and related services provider that enables users to buy, sell, trade, stake, and store cryptocurrencies. It offers spot trading, futures, margin trading indexes, over-the-counter (OTC) execution, and a multi-chain wallet. Kraken supports a large number of cryptocurrencies and fiat currency pairs, and it provides tools for both retail users and institutional clients. It also offers advanced order types, real-time market data, account management services, and resources for learning about blockchain and digital assets.
Cheyenne, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 21
Total Funding Amount $1B
Ripple
$40B
Ripple provides one frictionless experience to send money globally using the power of blockchain. It offers a global real-time payment system that enables banks and financial institutions around the world to directly transact with each other without the need for a central correspondent. The company also offers FX Market Making, a solution enabling enterprises to gain access to cross-currency liquidity through a distributed network that allows foreign exchange to be externally sourced from a competitive FX marketplace or an internal FX trading desk. This minimizes FX exposure thereby lowering the volatility and counter-party risk of trades. Ripple Insights features industry updates, insider perspectives, and in-depth market analysis.
San Francisco, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 8
Total Funding Amount $794M
OKX
$25B
OKX is the second largest global crypto exchange by trading volume and a leading Web3 ecosystem. With monthly Proof of Reserve releases, OKX is trusted by over 50 million global users. OKX is the fastest and most reliable crypto trading app for professional traders everywhere. - Buy, sell, and trade 350+ tokens with 100+ local currencies - Duplicate moves from top traders in the industry in just one click - Explore Web3 and take control of your crypto, NFTs, and digital assets with the OKX Wallet With its extensive range of crypto products and services, and unwavering commitment to innovation, OKX’s vision is a world where financial access is backed by blockchain and the power of decentralized finance.
Mahé, Seychelles, Africa
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $210M
Discord
$15B
Discord operates as a voice, video, and text communication service to talk and hang out with friends and communities. It was originally created for people who loved to play games, but these passionate people realized it could be enjoyed for more purposes. Discord is now used by everyone from local hiking clubs, to art communities, to study groups.
San Francisco, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 3
Total Funding Amount $983M
Trade Republic
$15B
Trade Republic is a mobile-only and commission-free broker that brings the opportunity to invest easily. The company works as a broker for a new generation for a more mobile, more intuitive, faster - and permanently free of commission. Trade Republic was founded in 2015 and based in Berlin, Germany.
Berlin, Germany, Europe
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $1B
Kraken
$13B
Kraken is a digital asset exchange and related services provider that enables users to buy, sell, trade, stake, and store cryptocurrencies. It offers spot trading, futures, margin trading indexes, over-the-counter (OTC) execution, and a multi-chain wallet. Kraken supports a large number of cryptocurrencies and fiat currency pairs, and it provides tools for both retail users and institutional clients. It also offers advanced order types, real-time market data, account management services, and resources for learning about blockchain and digital assets.
Cheyenne, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 21
Total Funding Amount $1B
Shamim Forever
$500M
Shamim Forever is a premium global luxury house dedicated to the art of fragrance, fine jewelry, and curated lifestyle excellence. The House presents its own exclusive creations alongside a carefully selected Guest Curation Series featuring internationally respected masterpieces from leading luxury brands. Its portfolio spans perfumes, high jewelry, cosmetics, gift collections, and collectible archive objects designed for individuals who value quality, rarity, and enduring craftsmanship. Selected creations are enhanced with NFT Digital Passports and blockchain-backed authentication, providing verified provenance, ownership records, and an additional layer of trust for collectors. The ecosystem is further strengthened by the OKBOND Lifetime Loyalty Program, offering eligible members lifetime 10% savings, priority access to exclusive releases, and special collector privileges that reward long-term engagement with the House. With a focus on refined presentation, premium materials, verified authenticity, and digital innovation, Shamim Forever bridges heritage-inspired luxury with the future of ownership. More than a marketplace, it is a destination where exceptional objects are curated, authenticated, collected, and preserved as part of a lasting legacy.
Karachi, Pakistan, Asia
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $250K
Y-tech Bank
$3M
Y-tech Bank is a fully digital financial platform that combines everyday banking, AI-driven tools, investment products, and business automation all in one app. We are building the next generation of neobanking for Millennials, Gen Z, and SMEs across the EU and UK. Unlike Revolut or N26, Y-tech integrates not just banking and crypto, but also automated investing, an AI business suite (NeuroOffice), e-pharmacy, streaming, and a marketplace into a single ecosystem. Key differentiators: • AI financial assistant with personalized spending insights and automation. • NeuroOffice: AI-powered back-office for SMEs (marketing, HR, accounting, legal). • Pay-by-link, split bill, robo-advisory - features missing from all major competitors. • Blockchain-backed security and full GDPR compliance. • Subscription tiers: Free, Standard, Metal, Ultimate, Business. Traction and Status: • MVP completed. • Pre-incorporation stage - Lithuanian banking license planned post-seed round. • Target: 80,000 users within first 18 months. Financials: • Seeking: €10.7M across 3 phases. • Offering: 35% equity. Markets: EU (Lithuania as regulatory base), United Kingdom - with expansion to LATAM and Asia in Phase 3.
London, United Kingdom, Europe
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $0
Arrel Technology
$6M
Arrel provides non-custodial digital asset infrastructure that enables banks, fintechs, PSPs, brokers, and asset managers to launch and scale digital asset products. Its unified infrastructure connects: [Custodians]: Fireblocks and other trusted partners [Compliance]: Chainalysis for KYT/AML, Sumsub for KYC/KYB [Liquidity and trading venues]: 15+ exchanges and institutional liquidity providers [Blockchains]: 10+ major chains for wallet creation and management [Stablecoins] Seamless integration with major stablecoins (USDC, EURC, USDT) for payments, settlement, and treasury operations Through API and turnkey solutions, Arrel integrates advanced business logic to simplify and accelerate deployment, including: [1] Multi-venue trading and liquidity aggregation [2] Multi-chain non-custodial wallet management (MPC, SOC2-audited) [3] Automated treasury and fiat withdrawals [4] Counterparty risk control and FX management [5] Governance, audit, and user administration tools [6] Full compliance monitoring and reporting By consolidating all these capabilities into one layer, Arrel enables institutions to move faster, reduce operational and regulatory risk, and scale securely in the digital asset economy.
Port Louis, Mauritius, Africa
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $1M
Range
$39M
Range is the platform for companies operating across stablecoins and fiat. Finance, compliance, and operations teams use Range to bring bank accounts, custodians, wallets, and exchanges into a single real-time ledger, with controls to screen, protect, and reconcile capital before and after it moves. Range supports pre-execution controls for sanctions, fraud, and operational risk, while feeding enriched onchain data into the accounting and compliance tools teams already use. The platform secures more than $30B in onchain assets and tracks 99.41% of stablecoin payment activity across 200+ networks and 100+ stablecoins. Range is used by teams including the Solana Foundation, Circle, Stellar, Squads, and Jupiter. Learn more at range.org.
Cham, Switzerland, Europe
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $11M
Lienfi
$6M
LienFi is a marketplace for tokenized tax liens and tax deeds, where each token reflects defined terms tied to a specific underlying tax lien or tax deed, subject to applicable law and platform disclosures.
Raleigh, United States, North America
Number of Acquisitions 0
Total Funding Amount $0
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