Financial

A wave of corporate-backed launches are continuing to take place in the blockchain VC space despite concerns valuations in the sector have spiralled.

JP Morgan Asset Management's (JPMAM) sustainability-focused growth private equity investment business adds co-head.

SoftBank led digital pharmacy Alto's $200m series E round as well as a $130m series B round for rent data software provider Esusu.

Mobile banking app developer One and earned wage access service Even will form a new company with the Walmart subsidiary featuring Qualcomm, Progressive and PayPal as shareholders.

SoftBank Vision Fund 2 helped blockchain technology provider Blockdaemon close a $207m series C round while Qualcomm-backed audio equipment brand BoAt is targeting $246m in its flotation.

FTX Trading's US subsidiary secured the cash at an $8bn valuation, bucking the trend among rival cryptocurrency exchanges less eager to raise funding.

Series C investors including SBI have sold back their shares to the digital payment tool provider at a 50% premium, valuing it at $15bn.

Cathay Life Insurance is the latest in a string of Taiwan and China-based insurers to put money into external venture capital funds.

SoftBank's Vision Funds took part in a $260m series F round for online finance provider Creditas and led last-mile delivery service Paack's $225m series D.

Argo Blockchain is set to exit cryptocurrency technology developer Pluto Digital in a reverse takeover, as Blockchain Founders Fund gets corporate help for a $75m fund.

Razorpay is reportedly eyeing the possibility of acquiring Amex-backed Ezetap while Sayata and Spectrum Labs were among the companies that received corporate backing.