
QED Investors
Description
QED Investors is a prominent venture capital firm headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, renowned for its deep specialization in the financial technology (fintech) sector. Founded in 2008 by Nigel Morris and Frank Rotman, both co-founders of Capital One, the firm leverages its founders' extensive operational experience to identify and nurture high-growth companies. QED's investment thesis centers on supporting disruptive businesses that are reshaping the financial services landscape globally.
The firm's investment strategy is distinguished by its hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational expertise to its portfolio companies. QED invests across various stages, from seed and Series A rounds to later-stage growth equity, demonstrating flexibility in its capital deployment. While based in the United States, QED has a significant global footprint, actively investing in fintech innovators across Latin America, Europe, India, and other emerging markets, reflecting a broad geographic ambition.
QED Investors has built an impressive portfolio, backing some of the most successful fintech companies worldwide. Notable investments include industry giants like Credit Karma, SoFi, Klarna, Remitly, and Nubank, many of which have achieved unicorn status or successful exits. The firm's commitment to its portfolio is evident in its long-term partnerships and its ability to help companies scale rapidly and navigate complex regulatory environments.
Demonstrating its continued growth and commitment to the fintech ecosystem, QED Investors recently closed its eighth fund, QED Fund VIII, at a substantial $950 million. This latest fund brings their total capital under management to over $4.6 billion, underscoring their significant financial capacity and influence in the venture capital landscape. To date, QED has invested in over 180 companies across 15 countries, solidifying its position as a leading global fintech investor.
Investor Profile
QED Investors has backed more than 342 startups, with 29 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 137 rounds, about 40% of its total and boasts 40 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series B, Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Brazil, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Financial Services, FinTech, Software.
- Led 18 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1M – $20M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (33%)
- Series B (21%)
- Seed (19%)
- Series C (11%)
- Series Unknown (6%)
- Series D (4%)
- Pre Seed (2%)
- Debt Financing (1%)
- Series E (1%)
- Private Equity (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (57%)
- Brazil (12%)
- United Kingdom (9%)
- Mexico (7%)
- India (3%)
- Colombia (2%)
- Ireland (1%)
- Canada (1%)
- Chile (1%)
- South Africa (1%)
Industry Focus
- Financial Services
- Fintech
- Software
- Finance
- Payments
- Banking
- E-commerce
- Information Technology
- Saas
- Real Estate
Frequently Asked Questions
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