Sam Altman's World Raises $135 Million in Token Sale!

Sam Altman's World Raises $135M With Token Sale To A16z & Bain Capital Crypto!

21 May 2025 at 19: 29

Reading time: 2 minutes

A high-profile new blockchain project from Sam Altman, the World Network, has raised a whopping $135 million through a private token sale of its WLD token. This impressive amount was raised from venture capital giants a16z and Bain Capital Crypto and will be used to expand the network. And that's not all: the course WLD's share price increased by 14% following these positive developments.

The funding comes at a significant time as the team behind the blockchain project has announced new features for the app. Additionally, the WLD token has recently become available to users in the United States. “To support the growing demand for Orb-verified World IDs and facilitate the expansion of the World Network in the US and beyond, World Assets, Ltd., a subsidiary of the World Foundation, sold $135 million worth of WLD at market prices to two of the earliest investors, Andreessen Horowitz and Bain Capital Crypto. As a result, the circulating supply of WLD has increased accordingly,” the team said in a blog post.

The WLD token was launched in July 2023 and currently has a market cap of $1,87 billion. Over the past month, its value has increased by 55%. However, it is important to note that WLD is still around 75% below its all-time high.

Until earlier this month, US users were unable to use World’s flagship products: the Orbs, the bowling ball-shaped devices that allow users to scan a person’s iris to confirm their identity. Once users sign up, they gain access to the World app and receive an airdrop of the WLD token, which can be used within World’s ecosystem of mini-apps.

During the announcement earlier this month, Altman said the project aims to bring Orbs to 180 million Americans by the end of the year — more than half the country's population!

“Who would have thought that scanning your eyes would be the key to digital freedom?” This project has the potential to radically transform the way we manage our identity online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the World Network?
The World Network is a blockchain project designed to revolutionize the way we verify our identity online through unique language and digital technologies such as the Orb.

How much money was raised from the token sale?
$135 million has been raised by selling the WLD token to prominent investors such as a16z and Bain Capital Crypto.

When was the WLD token launched?
The WLD token was launched in July 2023 and has since seen significant growth in market capitalization.

Share this article:

Disclaimer: The information on Block 9 is for general informational and educational purposes only. While we strive to provide up-to-date, correct and relevant content, we make no warranties as to the completeness, accuracy or reliability of the information provided. All content on this website, including articles, analyses, opinions and other publications, is for general information purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice in any way, including but not limited to financial, investment or tax advice.

Block 9 makes no guarantees or representations as to any possible results or returns that may arise from the use of information on this website. Nothing on this website should be interpreted as a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any particular asset, including but not limited to cryptocurrencies, tokens or other financial instruments.

The opinions and views expressed in contributions by editors, external authors or community members are strictly personal and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Block 9 as a platform. Block 9 accepts no liability for any loss or damage – direct or indirect – resulting from the use of (or reliance on) the information published on this website.

Investing in cryptocurrencies and other digital assets involves significant risks. The value of such assets can fluctuate significantly, and there is a chance that you could lose (some of) your investment. We strongly recommend that you always do your own research (DYOR) and seek independent advice from a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions. By using this website, you agree to this disclaimer and accept that Block 9 is not responsible for your investment choices or the results thereof.