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After a soft 2022 for new deals, we explain why investors can look ahead with renewed optimism

From record deal volumes and valuations in 2021, the Australian start-up and venture capital (VC) ecosystem was booming as 2021 drew to a close. Record levels of investment from both domestic and international investors gave plenty of confidence.

As 2022 took shape, buoyant optimism made way for apprehensiveness as to what the downturn in tech valuations would mean for companies relying on venture capital investment. 2022 was the year the system took pause. VC investment deployment dropped, albeit from a record high 2021. Yet generally the Australian market has proven resilient with some marked success stories.

We consider what lies ahead for 2023 and find still many reasons for cautious optimism. Here are some predictions for the year ahead.

To view the findings from our recent founder survey click below.

HSF Founders survey

Key contacts

Elizabeth Henderson photo

Elizabeth Henderson

Partner, Co-Head of Venture Capital (Australia), Sydney

Elizabeth Henderson
Claire Thompson photo

Claire Thompson

Co-Head of Venture Capital (Australia), Melbourne

Claire Thompson

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