Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, through Maelstrom is raising $250 million for private equity aimed at acquiring crypto infrastructure firms, with fundraising targeted by 2026.
In a cautious market, Maelstrom's initiative signifies notable private equity interest, potentially bolstering crypto infrastructure and indirectly benefiting major digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Maelstrom's $250M Push for Crypto Infrastructure
Arthur Hayes, renowned as the BitMEX co-founder, aims to raise $250 million through Maelstrom. This fund targets acquisitions of crypto infrastructure and data firms. "Maelstrom, my family office, is looking to raise $250 million for a private equity fund targeting acquisitions of crypto infrastructure and data firms," said Hayes.
Maelstrom, led by Hayes along with co-founder Akshat Vaidya, focuses on buyouts of lucrative off-chain service providers. The strategy involves targeting medium-sized firms to boost their operational capabilities.
Institutional Interest in Maelstrom Fund Highlights Stability
The Maelstrom fund's focus on infrastructure provides new stability in a risk-aware market. Institutional investors like pension funds are the primary targets for this new venture.
The initiative comes amid a notable decline in crypto private equity investments, which fell from $4 billion in 2021 to $1.4 billion in 2025. Acquisitions may indirectly benefit major cryptocurrencies like BTC and ETH through ecosystem improvements.
Crypto Consolidation: Maelstrom's Role in Market Maturation
Crypto infrastructure consolidation trends, including acquisitions by firms like Coinbase, highlight rare large-scale buyouts. Maelstrom's initiative stands out in a cautious market backdrop.
Expert insights suggest that this strategic move by Maelstrom could stimulate market maturation, benefiting cryptocurrencies indirectly through enhanced infrastructure services, despite challenges in the fundraising landscape.