In the first half of 2022, Swiss start-ups set another impressive record, generating CHF 2.6 billion in 163 financing rounds. But with inflation and fears of recession, investors do not expect the boom to continue.
Dear reader
We know how the first half of the year went for Swiss start-ups: according to our analysis for the half-year update of Swiss Venture Capital Report, CHF 2.6 billion was invested, with 13 financing rounds alone of more than CHF 50 million – as many as in 2021 over the entire year. More information about investment in Swiss start-ups can be found in the 15-page update. However, uncertainty about the effects of inflation, fears of recession and falling share prices in the coming months prevails. In addition to an analysis of the past, the update also contains a survey by SECA on the future. A total of 80 Swiss investors responded, with 60% expecting that in view of the difficult environment the total invested capital will decrease by up to 25% over the next 12 months. In their opinion, the slump in late stage rounds is likely to be particularly large.
The pandemic experience also shows that in Switzerland investment amounts are more susceptible to crises than number of investments. This week we reported on no fewer than 12 financing rounds, with six from the fintech sector: Stableton, findependent, Nevermined, Calingo, Kaspar& and Wefox secured funding. The Wefox round in particular was eagerly awaited, as other late stage start-ups had suffered sharp declines in valuation in recent weeks. Not so Wefox: the insurtech start-up increased its valuation by 50% compared with the last valuation round a year ago, to USD 4.5 billion.
The seed investment for biotech company Mosanna Therapeutics was also noticeable, as it was led by Forty51 Ventures, a new Basel-based fund. And FimmCyte, another biotech start-up, secured CHF 150,000 from Venture Kick.
Two cleantech start-ups – Pexapark and myFacility – also attracted investors. The eight start-ups that have been awarded the Solar Impulse Foundation label show how important this sector has become.
Start-ups from the life sciences and digital health sectors can apply for the Swiss-Israel Lean Launchpad programme until 25 July. The application period for the i4Challenge for Industry 4.0 start-ups ends on 31 July.
Public voting for the Top 100 Swiss Startup Award is open only until Sunday – those who still want to support their favourite start-up should hurry.
Have a good weekend.
Stefan Kyora
Editor in Chief, Startupticker.ch
0Comments
Please login or sign up to comment.
Commenting guidelines