Ethereum News Today: Peter Thiel Joins Institutional Investors Backing ETHZilla's Ethereum Treasury Model

Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal and Palantir, has joined a group of institutional investors holding a 7.5% stake in 180 Life Sciences, a biotechnology company rebranding as ETHZilla, an Ethereum-focused corporate treasury vehicle. This development was disclosed in a recent SEC filing, revealing that the firm has shifted its strategic focus toward Ethereum-based assets and operations [1].

The rebranded entity plans to use capital raised through recent fundraising efforts to acquire Ethereum, invest in yield-bearing assets, and support its iGaming business, while also monetizing its legacy biotech intellectual property [1]. In late July, the firm announced its Ethereum treasury initiative, a move that has already triggered substantial investor interest. Yahoo Finance data shows shares of ATNF surged over 11% at Monday’s close and climbed roughly 57% in overnight trading [1]. The company has secured $425 million in private placement funding and recently sold $156 million in senior secured convertible notes due in 2028.

The strategic rebranding and capital-raising efforts reflect a broader institutional shift toward digital assets, particularly as Ethereum continues to evolve post-merge. The Ethereum treasury model has gained traction among investors seeking exposure to the protocol while leveraging corporate structures to manage risk and yield [1].

In a social media post, SamAltcoin.eth noted that Thiel’s 7.5% stake in ETHZilla may be part of a larger initiative to build influence in the Ethereum ecosystem. The post also speculated on a reported ambition to acquire a 10% stake in the Ethereum network, although this remains unconfirmed and speculative [2]. The potential involvement of other investors such as FG Nexus, also mentioned in the post, suggests the possibility of a broader coalition, but no further details have been disclosed [2].

Thiel’s investment highlights the growing convergence between traditional finance and crypto markets. Investors with deep experience in technology and venture capital are increasingly deploying capital into crypto-native structures, reshaping corporate governance and investment models. This shift underscores the institutional legitimacy of Ethereum as a strategic asset class.

Source:

[1] Peter Thiel Discloses ETHZilla ATNF Stake (https://cryptobriefing.com/peter-thiel-discloses-ethzilla-atnf-stake/)

[2] SamAlτcoin.eth (@SamAltcoin_eth) / X (https://x.com/SamAltcoin_eth)