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What is the Most Successful VC Firm?

Published in Venture Capital Firms 2 mins read

Based on Assets Under Management (AUM) in 2024, Sequoia Capital stands out as the most successful venture capital firm among the top firms listed. It manages an impressive $55.7 billion in assets, positioning it at the forefront of the industry by this metric.

Defining Success in Venture Capital

While "success" in venture capital can be measured by various metrics, including internal rate of return (IRR), number of unicorns funded, or significant exits (IPOs and acquisitions), Assets Under Management (AUM) is a key indicator of a firm's scale, investor confidence, and ability to deploy capital into promising startups. A higher AUM often reflects a firm's established track record and its capacity to manage substantial investments.

Top Venture Capital Firms by AUM (2024)

The landscape of venture capital is dynamic, with firms continually raising new funds and investing in cutting-edge technologies. As of 2024, several firms lead the pack in terms of their managed assets. The following table highlights some of the leading venture capital firms and their AUM, showcasing Sequoia Capital's leading position:

Rank VC Firm Assets Under Management (AUM)
1 Sequoia Capital $55.7 Billion
2 Andreessen Horowitz $52.3 Billion
3 Lightspeed Venture Partners $25 Billion
4 Dragoneer Investment Group $21.729 Billion
5 Accel $19.1 Billion
6 Battery Ventures $16.840 Billion
7 Deerfield $15.06 Billion
8 Khosla Ventures $15 Billion

Data Source: dealroom.net

Understanding Sequoia Capital's Dominance

Sequoia Capital's substantial AUM underscores its long-standing influence and successful investment strategies in the venture capital ecosystem. The firm has an extensive history of backing transformative companies from their early stages, many of which have grown into global tech giants. Their portfolio often includes disruptive technology companies that redefine industries, contributing significantly to their ability to attract and manage vast sums of capital.

Other prominent firms like Andreessen Horowitz, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and Accel also demonstrate significant financial strength, consistently making strategic investments across various sectors, from enterprise software and fintech to consumer technology and biotechnology. Their large AUM allows them to participate in larger funding rounds and support their portfolio companies through multiple stages of growth.