In a strategic move signaling its growing ambitions in the digital asset market, Blockchain.com has appointed Justin Evans as its new chief financial officer. Evans, previously the head of crypto investment banking at Goldman Sachs, joins the firm amid its preparations for a potential public offering.
Blockchain.com, a significant player in the digital asset exchange space, has made pivotal hires to bolster its executive team, aiming to expand its workforce by 50%. The recruitment of Justin Evans, formerly with Goldman Sachs, and Mike Wilcox, previously at Velocity Global and Point72 Asset Management, underscores this growth strategy.
Justin Evans brings his experience from Goldman Sachs, where he led the crypto investment banking division. His tenure there included advising on major deals such as Coinbase Global Inc.’s direct listing and Circle’s now-cancelled SPAC plans. Evans expressed enthusiasm for joining Blockchain.com at a transformative time, highlighting opportunities to drive the company’s journey towards a public listing.
Blockchain.com is not alone in its IPO aspirations. Other crypto companies, including USDC issuer Circle and exchanges like Kraken, have long desired to enter public markets. This trend reflects a changing landscape as major financial institutions, previously cautious, now seek partnerships with digital asset firms for IPOs.
The supportive stance of the regulatory environment in the US, especially after crypto advocate Donald Trump’s presidential election, is expected to provide further impetus to these ambitions. Evans remarked on the more favorable conditions now compared to his earlier career at Goldman Sachs.
Blockchain.com’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. The company, like many others in the crypto sphere, faced hardships following the collapse of Three Arrows Capital. Despite past setbacks, a significant $110 million funding round led by Kingsway Capital in 2023 has helped stabilize its operations.
The latest hires at Blockchain.com, particularly the addition of Justin Evans, demonstrate the company’s steadfast commitment to securing a public presence in the financial markets. By strengthening its leadership team and preparing for potential IPOs, Blockchain.com positions itself to capitalize on the evolving digital asset landscape and regulatory conditions.
