Michael Moritz Shifts Focus to Sequoia Heritage Amidst Crypto Investment Setbacks

Michael Moritz is shifting his focus to Sequoia Heritage, a wealth management company he co-founded in 2010, after an amazing 37 years at Sequoia Capital. The fund, which has assets under control over $15 billion, will now take up the majority of his family foundation, Crankstart,’s resources. Even while he will step back from day-to-day operations, Moritz will continue to play a crucial role in some Sequoia-backed businesses, such as Stripe Inc.

Crypto Investment Missteps Trigger Departures

Sequoia Capital’s foray into the cryptocurrency industry wasn’t without its difficulties, which resulted in several substantial failures and investor exodus. One prominent investment was in the defunct cryptocurrency exchange FTX, which cost its global growth fund a whopping $214 million loss. Despite representing a minor portion of the company’s overall assets, this loss had a significant effect on Sequoia’s image.

Important figures involved in cryptocurrency investments are leaving the company as a result of these errors. Those leaving include Daniel Chen, a member of the “crypto maxi” scene, and Michelle Fradin, whose investment in FTX was crucial. Additionally, Mike Vernal, a senior partner with a diverse portfolio, and Kais Khimji, a partner who focuses on later-stage businesses, will both be departing the business.

Geopolitical Pressures and Split Strategy

Due to rising geopolitical tensions between Silicon Valley and China, Sequoia Capital said in June that it will split its activities in China and India from those in the United States. The business decided to distance itself as a result of this choice.

Sequoia Heritage was separated as a result of this split, and Michael Moritz is now a founding limited partner and board member of the new company. The company’s endeavor to negotiate the complicated geopolitical landscape and preserve its place in the global market is supported by this decision.

Lawsuit Over FTX Promotion

Sequoia Capital’s troubles with its cryptocurrency investments were made worse when the company, along with Thoma Bravo and Paradigm, was the target of a class-action lawsuit brought by investors. According to the complaint, these organizations ran marketing activities to support the authenticity of FTX even as the cryptocurrency exchange finally filed for bankruptcy.

Investors assert that the exchange gained a “air of legitimacy” as a result of the defendants’ backing, which resulted in significant financial losses for individuals who invested in FTX. For Sequoia Capital and its colleagues, the case presents a serious legal issue that might have an effect on their image and financial situation.