From Cairo to Crypto Leadership
Born in Cairo, Egypt, in 1990, Hany Rashwan’s journey into the world of finance and technology began early. After moving to the United States for education, he attended Ohio State University and later transferred to Columbia University. His passion for technology and finance led him to drop out and pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
In 2014, Rashwan founded Payout.com, a fintech company providing real-time payouts and disbursements, which processed over $50 million in loans by its second year. His success in fintech set the stage for his next venture into the burgeoning world of cryptocurrency.
Establishing 21.co and 21Shares
In 2018, recognizing the need for accessible cryptocurrency investment products, Rashwan co-founded 21.co, the parent company of 21Shares. 21Shares launched the world’s first physically-backed cryptocurrency Exchange-Traded Product (ETP), HODL, on the SIX Swiss Exchange in November 2018. This innovation allowed investors to gain exposure to cryptocurrencies through traditional financial markets.
Under Rashwan’s leadership, 21Shares has expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of crypto ETPs, making digital assets more accessible to institutional investors. The company’s commitment to compliance and regulatory standards has positioned it as a trusted bridge between traditional finance and the crypto world.
Impact on Institutional Crypto Adoption
Rashwan’s work with 21.co has played a pivotal role in the institutionalization of cryptocurrency. By providing regulated and transparent investment vehicles, he has addressed key concerns of institutional investors, such as security, compliance, and market volatility. This has led to increased adoption of crypto assets by traditional financial institutions.
Moreover, 21Shares’ success has demonstrated the viability of integrating digital assets into mainstream investment portfolios, paving the way for further innovation and acceptance in the financial industry.
Looking Ahead
As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, Rashwan remains at the forefront of bridging the gap between digital assets and traditional finance. His vision for a more inclusive and accessible financial system continues to drive 21.co’s mission to democratize crypto investing for institutions and individuals alike.
Hany Rashwan’s journey from Cairo to becoming a leading figure in crypto institutionalization exemplifies the transformative power of innovation and determination in the financial sector.
