Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), the Silicon Valley-based venture capital giant, has officially closed its London office amid a strategic focus back on the United States.

The decision coincides with a report from the Financial Times revealing that the office was established just two years ago. Initially launched in 2023, this marked the company’s first venture outside of the US, but they have now opted to retract.

Anthony Albanese, a16z’s Chief Operating Officer, shared on X (formerly Twitter):

“We’re excited by the enthusiasm for crypto building and adoption in the UK but we have chosen to focus on the US given the new administration’s strong policy momentum.”

Albanese added that this does not diminish their confidence in the UK’s role in crypto and blockchain, promising ongoing investment in entrepreneurs globally, including in the UK.

The closure marked a setback for Andreessen Horowitz, who had previously invested in UK companies such as Arweave and Aztec, recognizing London as a key financial center.

Political changes in the UK have complicated matters, with remarks from officials indicating skepticism towards the firm’s commitment: “they were never really here.”

In a broader context, the firm’s exit reflects the turbulent regulatory landscape for the crypto industry outside the US and aligns with a positive shift in crypto policies under former President Trump, indicated by his executive directives as a green light for blockchain innovation.

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