Benchmark confirmed that it has invested* in Tinder, a rumor we reported in August. No details were given about the deal, except that IAC continues to own "a controlling stake," deterring other venture capitalists buzzing around the popular hookup app. *Update: Recode says no money has changed hands, it's a "sweat equity" arrangement:
In an unusual investment configuration, Silicon Valley venture firm Benchmark has taken an equity stake in popular mobile dating app Tinder, in exchange for one of its partners, Matt Cohler, joining the board.
The Los Angeles-based Tinder is controlled by the Match Group, which in turn is a subsidiary of online conglomerate IAC (which is, of course, run by uber-mogul Barry Diller). Interestingly, sources said that no actual money was invested by Benchmark and IAC continues to hold a massive and controlling stake in Tinder via Match.
Instead, the small stake — the companies declined to give an exact amount — will be traded for the time and expertise of the high-profile VC Cohler. The former LinkedIn and Facebook exec has made investments in a range of successful online companies such as Uber and Twitter.