**Obvious Ventures Just Raised a Giant $3.6 Billion Fund, And There’s a Clever Reason Why**
You know the drill by now – the venture capital firm co-founded by Twitter’s Evan Williams has raised yet another massive fund, this time a whopping $3.6 billion. Yes, you read that right. Obvious Ventures has got the magic touch, and they’re about to make a serious dent in the startup world.
But here’s the thing: the number $3.6 billion has a clever significance. It’s a nod to the firm’s focus on taking a holistic approach to investing, aka, a “360-degree view”. According to co-founder and managing director James Joaquin, it’s a metaphor for the agency’s approach to investing, which involves considering the past, present, and future of each investment.
It’s not the first time Obvious Ventures has done this. Each of its previous funds has had a unique theme, and this one is no exception. The firm’s first fund was a modest $123 million, followed by $191 million, $272 million, and $355 million. But despite the increasing fund sizes, Obvious Ventures is known for backing startups that make a positive impact on the world. Think Planet Labs, Recursion Pharmaceuticals, and Gusto – all household names in the startup world.
So, what’s working for this VC firm? According to Joaquin, it’s their willingness to keep fund sizes relatively small, which allows a single investment to return the entire fund. It sounds like a high-risk, high-reward strategy, but it’s clearly working – the firm has seen some significant returns from its portfolio companies, including a few IPOs and acquisitions.
And let’s be real, the firm’s approach to fund sizes has always been a bit of a joke. We’re talking $191 million, $272 million, and now $3.6 billion. It’s all about having fun with numbers, but also making a point.
This latest fundraise solidifies Obvious Ventures’ position as a well-established player in the venture capital industry. With a track record of investing in startups that make a real difference, and a commitment to supporting companies that care about the planet and its inhabitants, the firm is well-positioned to make a real impact in the years to come.
As Obvious Ventures looks to the future, it’s clear that its focus on taking a “360-degree view” will continue to shape its investment strategy. With a team of experienced investors and a portfolio of innovative companies, the firm is ready to tackle the next big challenge.
