San Francisco, US-based incubator launched a new $20-million venture capital fund to back early-stage hardware startups in the robotics, aerospace, agriculture, connected things, and transportation sectors.

Boston, US-based digital currency firm Circle Internet Financial closed a $17-million Series B round from Oak Investment Partners and other investors to help consumers conduct easier and safer Bitcoin transactions.

San Francisco, California-based equity crowdfunding service CircleUp pocketed $14 million in its second funding round from Canaan Partners, Google Ventures, and other investors to bridge investors and companies.

London, UK-based commercial property marketplace Spacious helps startups find suitable office spaces in the area by providing them with a comprehensive list of available rental properties and an online contract.

Palo Alto, California-based relationship management software startup RelateIQ bagged $40 million in its Series C funding round led by Redpoint Ventures which values the firm at over $200 million.

London, UK-based gaming firm King priced its shares at $22.50 for its initial public offering (IPO) in New York, US, which values that company at over $7 billion.

Auckland, New Zealand-based point-of-sale software provider Vend pocketed $20 million in a funding round led by Valar Ventures and Square Peg Capital to expand to North America and Europe.

Illinois, US-based cleantech firm LanzaTech landed $60 million in a Series D funding round led by Mitsui & Co LTD to convert toxic factory gases into renewable fuel.

Texas, US-based crowdfunding company Junction Investments will begin operating on Wednesday to allow wealthy individuals to invest online in fully-funded Hollywood movies, starting with Tom Hanks' "A Hologram for the King."

Dublin, Ireland-based global communications services firm WPP Digital picked up a majority stake in London, UK-based digital consultancy firm Cognifide for an undisclosed sum in a deal that will deliver mutual benefits to both companies.