Crypto Dad Returns: Former CFTC Chair Joins Sygnum to Shape Global Policy

About Sygnum and Christopher Giancarlo

Switzerland-based crypto bank Sygnum has appointed Christopher Giancarlo, former Chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), as its Senior Policy Advisor. Giancarlo joins Sygnum’s 12-member advisory board and will provide guidance on regulation and strategic partnerships with both public and private entities globally.

Giancarlo noted that he is joining Sygnum at a critical time, as the institutionalization of the crypto market accelerates. Moreover, he emphasized that the industry stands at the edge of a global shift and pointed to the urgent need for a clear regulatory strategy and engagement with international authorities.

Sygnum, recently valued at $1 billion following a $58 million funding round, positions itself as Switzerland’s first crypto bank. Additionally, it continues to expand into innovation-driven jurisdictions such as Singapore and the UAE. Giancarlo’s appointment reinforces the bank’s ambitions in the global crypto infrastructure space.

Christopher Giancarlo, known as “Crypto Dad” for his pro-blockchain stance during his time at the CFTC, stated in 2023 that a “political shift” in Washington was necessary to advance crypto regulation. The election of Donald Trump in 2024 and the subsequent overhaul of the regulatory agenda make his return to the public crypto sphere especially symbolic.

Why Now: Institutional Shift and Global Expansion of Crypto Banks

The appointment of Christopher Giancarlo comes at a time of growing institutional momentum in the digital asset space. In recent months, the U.S. and other jurisdictions have taken steps that significantly enhance the legitimacy of cryptocurrencies in the eyes of major investors and regulators. 

Among the key developments: 

• The launch of Bitcoin ETFs 
• Rapid expansion of the tokenization sector 
• Advancements in regulatory frameworks, including the U.S. GENIUS Act, which aims to establish a legal framework for stablecoins

More on the topic: Senate Banking Committee Passes Stablecoin Bill: What the Genius Act Means

Meanwhile, Sygnum continues to strengthen its international presence. Following its success in Switzerland, the bank is actively expanding into Singapore and the United Arab Emirates—jurisdictions that are open to digital assets and focused on attracting fintech innovation. 

Sygnum’s leadership notes that global competition for crypto hub status is intensifying, making the role of experienced regulatory figures, such as Giancarlo, increasingly important.

Previously, Sygnum CEO Mathias Imbach warned that if Switzerland fails to continue advancing progressive regulatory initiatives, it risks losing its position as a leading crypto jurisdiction.