When navigating the crypto and investment landscape, knowing who not to partner with matters far more than chasing every opportunity that comes your way. A modest investment from the wrong stakeholder—whether it's a dubious fund, a connected entity with hidden agendas, or someone operating in gray zones—can spiral into endless complications down the road. Due diligence on capital sources is just as critical as the capital itself. In Web3, where regulatory uncertainty and reputational risk run high, vetting your backers isn't paranoia—it's survival. The deals you turn down often protect you more than the ones you accept.