Sony-backed Startale sets up Abu Dhabi operations after major Series A funding round

Startale Group, a blockchain infrastructure firm backed by Sony Innovation Fund and SBI Group, is expanding into Abu Dhabi after being selected for Hub71’s Digital Assets cohort, strengthening its presence in a fast-growing, state-backed crypto ecosystem.

The move follows the company’s $63 million Series A round, which will support the development of blockchain and stablecoin infrastructure in regulated markets.

Backed by Mubadala and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, the initiative will see Startale establish operations in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), a financial centre known for its digital asset regulatory framework.

“Hub71 and Abu Dhabi Global Market provide the regulatory clarity and global reach we need to scale responsibly,” CEO Sota Watanabe said. “Abu Dhabi is emerging as a major digital asset hub, enabling expansion across the East and West markets.”

Startale is currently developing Soneium in partnership with Sony Block Solutions Labs under Sony Group Corporation. It is also working on Strium, the yen-backed stablecoin JPYSC with SBI Group, as well as USDSC and the Startale App.

The company was selected from more than 2,400 applicants to join Hub71’s ecosystem of investors, institutions, and regulators under its Hub71+ Digital Assets programme.

“We are pleased to welcome Startale Group into Hub71’s Cohort 18,” said Divya Claudia Nair, Startup Journey Lead at Hub71. “Their focus on digital asset infrastructure reflects the strength of our specialist ecosystems and the calibre of founders choosing Abu Dhabi as a launchpad for global growth. We look forward to supporting their expansion.”

Startale plans to deploy teams locally and work closely with regulators, investors, and partners as it expands across regional and international markets.