Crypto-friendly bank Erebor in talks to raise $1.5 billion at $9.5 billion valuation: FT

Tech-oriented lender Erebor Bank is in advanced talks to raise about $1.5 billion in a deal that would value the year-old firm at about $9.5 billion, the Financial Times reported.

Lux Capital, Human Capital, Valor Equity Partners, Andreessen Horowitz and SV Angel are expected to make large commitments in the fundraising round. Existing investors including 8VC and Haun Ventures are also set to take part, according to the report, which cited people familiar with the matter.

The fundraising comes as Erebor expands its deposit base and starts lending activity. Deposits reached $4.6 billion by the end of July, up from $1.1 billion at the end of March, the FT said.

Erebor targets companies working in crypto, artificial intelligence, defense and manufacturing. It also serves payment companies, investment funds and trading firms and its planned services include deposits, credit, stablecoin products, treasury management and payments.

The bank received final U.S. approval to operate in February. Regulators require it to maintain a leverage ratio of at least 12% during its first three years, making the fresh capital important as its balance sheet grows.