SMBC Nikko Securities Makes Strategic Investment in Hashed Ventures to Bridge Traditional Finance and Web3

Hashed Ventures, a global blockchain-focused venture capital firm, has secured its first strategic investment in Japan from SMBC Nikko Securities, a core subsidiary of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG). The MOVE signals growing institutional interest in Web3 and blockchain technologies within Japan's traditional financial sector.

The investment was facilitated through SMBC Nikko's new business development division, with its Web3-focused team, Funder Storm, leading the initiative. Funder Storm has been active in blending Japanese cultural heritage with global NFT projects through its Proof of Japan Inc. program, while also working on regulatory and educational frameworks to foster Web3 adoption.

Hashed Ventures brings its extensive global network and expertise in decentralized projects to the partnership. With offices spanning Seoul, San Francisco, Singapore, Bengaluru, and Abu Dhabi, the firm has backed numerous innovative Web3 initiatives. Its previous fund launches of $120 million in 2020 and $200 million in 2021 demonstrate its growing influence in the space.