Lakestar Halts New Venture Fundraising, Shifts Focus to Existing Portfolio
Klaus Hommels, founder of Lakestar, announced the firm will not raise new generalist venture funds, instead concentrating on maximizing existing portfolio companies. The shift comes as European venture fundraising faces a significant decline, with funds raising only $8 billion this year compared to $27 billion in 2024.
Strategic Shift for European Venture Giant
Lakestar, one of Europe’s most prominent venture capital firms, has informed investors it will halt raising new generalist venture funds, according to reports. Founder Klaus Hommels stated in a letter to investors that future startup investments will primarily utilize his personal capital rather than institutional funds. The Zurich-based firm, which manages over $2 billion in assets, plans to focus on maximizing value from its existing portfolio companies.
