Definition
A funding round that attracts investors primarily because a prestigious VC or strategic investor has already committed, rather than on the company's standalone merits. One famous name creates a stampede of followers.
Example Usage
Once Andreessen Horowitz joined as lead, the halo effect round filled within 48 hours with every tier-two VC wanting a piece.
Origin
Adapted from the psychological 'halo effect' cognitive bias, applied to VC contexts in the 2010s
Fun Fact
Halo effect rounds can inflate valuations beyond fundamentals, setting up companies for difficult down rounds later.
Source: Venture capital syndication terminology
Related Terms
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See “halo effect round” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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