Celebrating a Decade of Leadership: Thomas Braziel and 117 Partners in Distressed-Crypto Investing

A Decade of Innovation in Distressed Crypto Investing

In June 2025, Thomas Braziel and 117 Partners celebrate ten years of groundbreaking efforts in the realm of distressed cryptocurrency investing. When Bitcoin emerged in 2009, Braziel recognized its potential as more than just a digital currency; he envisioned a new investment market ripe for institutional involvement and discipline. This foresight led him to develop innovative strategies that have reshaped how investors navigate the complexities of distressed digital assets.

From Insight to Action

Over the past decade, Braziel has effectively built a structured market where inefficiencies once existed. Brian Estes, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Off The Chain Capital, emphasizes this point, stating, "Thomas didn't just spot an inefficiency—he built an investable market where none existed." His frameworks have proven that distressed digital assets can deliver returns that surpass traditional special-situation trades, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.

After spending seven years executing successful workouts via initial investment vehicles, Braziel founded 117 Partners in 2022. This firm has quickly gained a reputation in Savannah as a primary resource for liquidity and restructuring expertise, catering to both investors and major cryptocurrency claimholders.

Key Achievements and Milestones

Throughout its ten years, 117 Partners has celebrated several landmark achievements, demonstrating its prominent role in the field of distressed crypto investing:

1. Transforming Early Claims: The firm successfully converted initial claims from the notorious Mt. Gox and Bitcoinica into significant payouts for investors, with the first limited-partner set to see returns exceeding 40 times their original investment.

2. Establishing Legal Precedents: Braziel has been instrumental in demarcating the legal landscape for restructurings within the crypto space. His efforts facilitated the first court-approved debtor-in-possession (DIP) loan to a mining company under Chapter 11, as well as other crypto-related DIP financing projects.

3. Innovative Regulation Advisory: As an advisor in the first Subchapter V estate case under the Small Business Reorganization Act involving digital assets, Braziel paved the way for a new legal framework within this growing market.

4. Promising Returns for Partners: Through strategic financial maneuvers, the firm delivered impressive returns, including a 60% gross internal rate of return (IRR) on a SPV linked to Celsius bankruptcy claims.

5. Major Intermediary Role: 117 Partners has acted as one of the largest intermediaries in the FTX estate, brokering claims worth over $800 million through exclusive sourcing and syndication.

6. Pioneering Distributions: The firm orchestrated a payout plan for CAT-token holders under the SEC's Fair Fund, facilitating $1 million in distributions through a claimant-first model, which ensures that those affected receive timely reimbursements.

Continuing the Mission

As they commemorate a decade of success, 117 Partners continues to push the envelope in distressed investing, currently underwriting liquidity in numerous active bankruptcy estates, including Hodlnaut, CoinLoan, and Vauld. The firm is also expanding its Fair Fund distribution framework, ensuring that regulatory compliance aligns with expedited, precise payouts.

"Utilizing established principles of distressed investing in the volatile landscape of cryptocurrency proves that discipline and creativity can transform adversity into opportunity," Braziel asserts. With ten years under their belt, he is confident that 117 Partners is only just beginning its journey.

About 117 Partners

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Savannah, Georgia, 117 Partners specializes in distressed and special-situation digital assets. The firm leverages global sourcing, legal prowess, and customized structuring solutions to aid clients navigating through bankrupt exchanges, failed tokens, and litigation-based recoveries. Its targeted approach and deep expertise render it the preferred partner for investors and businesses facing intricate cryptocurrency challenges.

For more information or media inquiries, contact Thomas Braziel, Managing Partner at 117 Partners, at +1 646-650-5096 or email media@117partners.com. Visit www.117partners.com to learn more about their services.