Crypto companies seeking investment set a new record last week, raising $3.5 billion across 28 funding rounds before the market experienced a sharp crash on Friday. Data from Cryptorank revealed that weekly fundraising from 6 October to Sunday surpassed all previous peaks, including the near $3 billion recorded between 28 July and 3 August.
This breakthrough came after seven consecutive weeks of sub-$1 billion fundraising activity, highlighting a sudden resurgence in investor confidence in the crypto sector. Over the past six months, weekly fundraising fluctuated between $150 million and $2.9 billion, underscoring the volatility of venture activity in the space. October’s surge represents a significant breakout for crypto investments.
Bitcoin Highs and Market Impact
The record fundraising coincided with Bitcoin reaching a new all-time high of $126,000 on 6 October, before a dramatic market correction later in the week. Cryptocurrencies saw a swift reversal after US President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on China, causing Bitcoin prices to drop below $110,000.
Within eight hours, Bitcoin fell by $16,700, representing a 13.7 percent correction, while futures open interest decreased by 13 percent. The sudden crash triggered nearly $20 billion in liquidations, primarily on the decentralised perpetuals exchange Hyperliquid.
Blockchain Services Lead Investment Activity
Analysis of the 28 funding rounds shows blockchain services dominated last week’s activity. Twelve rounds were secured by blockchain service providers, making it the most active sector. Centralised finance projects followed with six rounds, while blockchain infrastructure, decentralised finance, gaming and social ventures accounted for the remaining rounds.
Weekly fundraising data. Source: Cryptorank
This distribution reflects a broad investment trend focused on service-driven projects within the crypto ecosystem, signalling sustained interest in infrastructure and operational solutions beyond purely speculative tokens.
Top Investors Remain Active
Pantera Capital emerged as the most active investor last week, participating in four deals across blockchain services, centralised finance and social ventures. Over the past year, Coinbase Ventures maintained its position as the leading investor overall, completing 73 deals across multiple sectors. Animoca Brands followed with 63 deals while Binance-affiliated YZi Labs secured 38. Amber Group and Andreessen Horowitz’s crypto accelerator, a16z CSX, completed 37 deals each.
The active participation of these investors highlights continued institutional interest in the crypto market despite its volatility, suggesting a long-term commitment to emerging blockchain technologies.
Fundraising Amidst Market Fluctuations
The record fundraising week occurred between Bitcoin reaching its peak and the onset of one of the largest crashes in history. The asset’s surge was partly driven by a shift from centralised exchanges into self-custody wallets, institutional funds and corporate digital asset treasuries.
Despite the market downturn, the large influx of investment demonstrates that venture capital remains willing to support crypto startups even in periods of extreme volatility. Analysts suggest that this trend may lead to further sector consolidation and innovation as investors seek projects capable of withstanding price fluctuations.
Conclusion
Last week’s $3.5 billion fundraising record illustrates the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the crypto market. While Bitcoin’s historic high and subsequent crash captured headlines, the strong investment activity indicates growing confidence in blockchain services and other crypto-related ventures. As the sector continues to evolve, the balance between market volatility and investor enthusiasm will remain a key factor shaping the future of crypto funding.
