The recently published MoneyTree Report provides an overview of venture capital investment trends. In 2018, VC-backed companies raised $99.5 billion, an increase in annual funding of 30%, despite a decline in the number of deals. In 2018, the number of early-stage deals declined, but the number of later-stage deals increased. There were 184 “mega-rounds” completed in 2018, or funding rounds of $100 million or more. Globally, there were 382 mega-rounds completed in 2018 although overall financing activity globally declined in 2018. There were 55 companies that attained unicorn status in 2018. At year-end 2018, there were 140 venture-backed unicorns. By sector, Internet companies led with 540 deals completed in the fourth quarter raising $9.1 billion. This was followed by 162 healthcare financings and $4.0 billion. Fintech-related funding increased 38% in 2018 over 2017.

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