Auros, a prominent crypto trading firm and market maker, recently announced the launch of its venture capital arm, Auros Ventures. In an exclusive interview with CoinDesk, the company revealed its ambitious plan to invest over $50 million in early-stage digital asset ventures within the next two years. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the resurgence of crypto VC investments, following a challenging period marked by the collapse of firms like FTX.
Heading the investment efforts is Julien Auchecorne, a seasoned professional with a background in both traditional finance and the crypto industry. Auchecorne’s appointment as the head of Auros Ventures brings valuable expertise from his previous roles at hedge fund Brevan Howard and digital asset services platform XBTO International.
As part of its expansion strategy, Auros Ventures seeks to emulate the success of established market makers like Wintermute and Cumberland DRW, who have diversified their businesses by venturing into the realm of venture capital. Prior to launching the ventures division, Auros had already made significant investments in various projects, totaling close to $20 million since 2023.
Ben Roth, CEO of Auros, emphasized the firm’s commitment to supporting the growth of its portfolio companies by acting as a “power user” of their services. Unlike some market makers who view investments as a means of client acquisition, Auros aims to forge strategic partnerships with its investees.
Discussing the investment strategy, Auchecorne highlighted the focus on making “concentrated bets” primarily in seed and series A stage projects. The aim is to identify areas within the crypto industry that are poised for substantial growth, targeting sectors where the next wave of users is expected to emerge.
By leveraging its market-making expertise and industry insights, Auros Ventures aims to not only provide capital but also strategic guidance to its portfolio companies. This approach sets the firm apart in a competitive landscape, emphasizing long-term value creation over short-term gains.
The establishment of Auros Ventures marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, signaling a robust recovery from the challenges it faced during the aftermath of the FTX collapse. With a clear vision and a dedicated team at the helm, Auros is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the crypto investment landscape.