Swiss-based cryptofinance group Bitcoin Suisse has announced the appointment of former Barclay’s head of wealth management and investments Dirk Klee as the firm’s new CEO.
In a statement, Bitcoin Suisse indicated that Klee, who also worked as the chief operating officer at UBS’s wealth management business, will succeed Arthur Vayloyan from April 1st, 2021.
Klee is expected to play a crucial role in assisting Bitcoin Suisse to attain a banking licence. Notably, in March last year, regulators denied the platform a banking approval citing inefficiencies in the anti-money laundering protocols.
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Crypto sector to expand across Europe
Commenting on the appointment, Klee stated that he expects the cryptocurrency sector to expand across Europe in the coming years. He said that there might be significant changes in regulation, client expectations, and technology in this line.
“In the coming years, the growth of crypto-financial services will continue to accelerate in Europe and globally. We anticipate key shifts in regulation, client expectations, and technology. This requires thoughtful alignment of business model and strategy, as well as the ability to effectively implement new innovations,” said Klee.
According to Klee, he also expects traditional finance to integrate with cryptocurrencies leveraging blockchain technology. He notes that the trust aspect of decentralized systems appeals to a broader audience.
With the appointment, Vayloyan will remain a shareholder and member of the board of directors.
Klee’s onboarding comes barely three months after Bitcoin Suisse founder Niklas Nikolajsen hinted that the company might soon earn a stock exchange listing.
“Stock Listing: It may very well be that BTCS is also to be listed on a large stock exchange in the not-to-distant future,” said Nikolajsen.
Furthermore, Klee’s appointment aligns with Bitcoin Susse’s objective of adding more workforce amid an ongoing expansion. According to the founder, they intend to hire between 100-300 staff within the next four quarters.
