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Down round

Also called: down-round

In one line

A fundraising round priced below the company's previous round, cutting the per-share value.

In plain English

When a company raises money at a lower valuation than last time, each share is worth less than before. It often triggers extra dilution through anti-dilution protection for earlier investors.

If you were explaining it to a 5-year-old

Last year your toy was 'worth' 10 coins. This year the shop says it's only worth 6. Everyone's toys just got cheaper.

Why it matters when you sell

A down round can sharply reduce what your stake is worth and worsen your position behind investors — important context when deciding whether to sell.

Related terms

Put it to use

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Sources

A general market-practice term. See how we define and source the glossary in our methodology. General information, not advice.

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