$100B for (Data)bricks, another crypto IPO

Author

Noel Moldvai
August 21, 2025

TL;DR. Databricks just pulled off one of the rarest moves in venture, raising a Series K funding round alongside a fresh $100B valuation. As tech and crypto stumble in the public markets this week, Gemini becomes the next crypto exchange to file for an IPO. Meanwhile, FieldAI raises $405M to build a universal robot brain capable of powering everything from humanoids to self-driving cars.

Databricks hits a $100B valuation with its Series K funding round

Databricks secured a Series K funding round at a $100B valuation, aiming to supercharge its AI push. The funding aims to expand its Agent Bricks and Lakebase products, support acquisitions, and accelerate global growth. With 15,000+ customers and strong cloud partnerships, Databricks is riding the AI wave with full investor backing.

Gemini, the next crypto exchange up to IPO

Gemini, founded by the Winklevoss twins, has filed for a U.S. IPO despite widening losses and falling revenue. It follows blockbuster listings from Bullish and Circle and hopes to ride the tech IPO momentum. Backed by Goldman and Citi, the move comes amid rising institutional interest and regulatory tailwinds from the GENIUS Act supporting stablecoins.

FieldAI raises $405M to build universal robot brains

FieldAI has raised $405M to build general-purpose robot brains called “Field Foundation Models.” By grounding AI in physics, the startup is tackling the challenge of robot adaptability and safety. With backing from Bezos Expeditions and Intel Capital, it plans to scale across industries like construction, energy, and delivery.

How accredited investors are unlocking liquidity in the pre-IPO market

Startups are staying private longer, leaving accredited investors searching for earlier exits. Secondary platforms are making it possible to buy and sell shares of late-stage private companies before an IPO. These marketplaces help investors access liquidity, discover pricing, and manage portfolios with more flexibility, turning private markets from a waiting game into an active trading space.

Quick Takes

Cheerio! Until next week.
-Noel