Fresh markets for Swiss crypto startup

Zurich-based startup 21Shares makes investing in digital assets as easy as buying shares using their conventional broker or bank. It provides a platform where investors can purchase crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) safely and in complete security in a regulated framework on the SIX Swiss Exchange.

Last month, the 2018 founded startup launched its Crypto Winter Suite, a set of products designed to help investors weather the bear market and provide various ways to enter the asset class. Recent product launches in the Crypto Winter Suite include the world’s cheapest Bitcoin ETP (CBTC) as well as two risk-controlled products, the 21Shares S&P Risk Controlled Bitcoin Index ETP (SPBTC) and 21Shares S&P Risk Controlled Ethereum Index ETP (SPETH).

In addition to the latest developments, 21Shares continues its global expansion. The startup is embarking on its Middle East expansion with the appointment of Sherif El-Haddad as head of Middle East in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to lead 21Shares’ market expansion in the region. El-Haddad previously served as Head of Asset Management at Al Mal Capital. Before that, he was the Managing Partner of Pearl Capital Management and led the asset management division of EFG Hermes for over 13 years. El-Haddad has extensive experience in the financial services sector across the Middle East and a broad set of capabilities and networks. He holds an accounting degree from The American University in Cairo.

For its European market, two experienced members have joined the startup. Marina Baudéan joins 21Shares as Head of France, Belgium and Luxembourg where she is responsible for developing the 21Shares footprint in these regions to meet investors’ growing appetite for digital assets. Baudéan comes from a traditional finance background. She previously worked in the fixed income markets in various client-facing roles at companies, including Barclays, where she spent 15 years developing the BARX franchise and, most recently, leading the electronic rates distribution team in EMEA.

Oliver Schäfer joins 21Shares as Head of Germany where he is responsible for further development and expansion of sales and business development in the region. Oliver brings more than 20 years of experience across leading companies in the financial sector and in service-oriented dealings with clients to 21Shares. Prior to joining the company, Schäfer spent over 15 years at J.P. Morgan AG. He also previously held roles in private banking and brokerage at SEB Bank AG, a corporate finance consultancy and an independent fund boutique.

(Press release/RAN)