With over 30 million users globally, MetaMask has become the world’s most popular cryptocurrency wallet for interacting with the Ethereum blockchain and decentralized applications. Its browser extension and mobile app make MetaMask an essential tool for any Ethereum user or developer. But the crypto community still has lingering questions – who owns Metamask – a popular wallet today? Let’s find out.
Summary
MetaMask was created and is owned by ConsenSys, a Brooklyn-based blockchain software company founded by Joseph Lubin. Although JP Morgan invested in ConsenSys in 2021, they have less than 10% ownership and no influence over decision-making at MetaMask. The latest funding round includes investors like ParaFi Capital, Temasek, SoftBank Vision Fund 2, and Microsoft.
What is MetaMask
MetaMask is a crypto wallet and gateway to blockchain apps. It allows users to store, send, and receive Ether and other Ethereum-based tokens as well as interact with dApps built on the Ethereum blockchain.
Some key features that make MetaMask stand out:
- Browser extension and mobile app for easy access
- Secure private keys – only user has access
- Supports VPN and Tor for enhanced privacy
- Built-in crypto swap function
- Connect hardware wallets like Trezor and Ledger
- Customizable gas fees for transactions
- Access to test networks and the main Ethereum network
Is MetaMask Owned by JP Morgan?
In 2021, JP Morgan did invest in ConsenSys during a funding round. However, their ownership stake is less than 10%, and they have no say or influence in MetaMask’s decision making. Recent false claims of JP Morgan owning MetaMask are absolutely incorrect.
Who Owns MetaMask?
MetaMask was created and is still owned by ConsenSys, a Brooklyn, New York-based blockchain software technology company founded by Joseph Lubin.
ConsenSys develops a variety of platforms and tools for blockchain ecosystems, especially those built on Ethereum. MetaMask is ConsenSys’s flagship product that has brought Ethereum and Web3 access to millions of end users globally.
As the original creator and owner behind MetaMask, ConsenSys continues to develop new features and functionality for the wallet. The company also raised $450 million in funding involving major backers like ParaFi Capital and SoftBank Vision Fund 2.
About ConsenSys, the Founder of MetaMask
ConsenSys was founded in 2014 by Joseph Lubin, one of the eight co-founders of Ethereum. Based in Brooklyn, New York, ConsenSys refers to itself as a “blockchain venture production studio” to build and scale tools, infrastructure, and applications on Ethereum and other blockchain ecosystems.
Prior to ConsenSys, Joseph Lubin already had an extensive career in technology companies after graduating from Princeton with a degree in electrical engineering and computer science.
Among ConsenSys’s over 250 projects and products, MetaMask has undoubtedly become its most widely adopted product with millions of users. As MetaMask continues rapid growth, Lubin and the ConsenSys team show no signs of slowing down development and innovation, including improving features like Metamask Airdrop, improving MetaMask Bridge for cross-chain swaps, and robust integrations to allow users to easily add tokens to MetaMask.
Conclusion
In summary, MetaMask was created and continues to be owned by the Brooklyn-based company ConsenSys, originally founded by Joseph Lubin. Despite misleading claims of JP Morgan ownership, they only have a minor investment stake. With an exciting development roadmap ahead, MetaMask remains the top wallet choice for millions of Ethereum and crypto users.
FAQs
Who is the original owner behind MetaMask?
MetaMask was created and is owned by ConsenSys, a blockchain software company based in Brooklyn, New York that was founded by Joseph Lubin.
Does JP Morgan own MetaMask?
No. JP Morgan invested in ConsenSys in 2021 but they own less than 10% of the company and have no control or influence over MetaMask’s roadmap or products.
Who funds the development of MetaMask?
MetaMask and its parent company ConsenSys are funded by investors like ParaFi Capital, Temasek, Microsoft, SoftBank Vision Fund 2 as well as revenue generated from their platforms and tools.
What company owns and runs MetaMask?
MetaMask was created and is still owned by ConsenSys. ConsenSys develops and maintains MetaMask wallet in addition to a variety of other blockchain platforms.
