Crypto goes corporate: Why big money can’t ignore digital assets anymore

Crypto goes corporate: Why big money can’t ignore digital assets anymore - Tenity Insights from Davos 2025.

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In recent years, cryptocurrency has transitioned from a niche interest to a mainstream financial asset. With institutions, high-net-worth individuals, and even governments exploring digital assets, the conversation has shifted from skepticism to strategic adoption.

The latest episode of Innovation Connected, recorded at the World Economic Forum in Davos, captures this transformation in an insightful discussion between Max Plank, venture partner at Tenity, and Marcus Menzl, Chief Client Officer at Amina Bank (formerly SEBA Bank).not sees a growing demand for sophisticated financial products like structured investments, derivatives, and lending solutions.

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Institutional adoption: The game-changer

One of the key takeaways from the conversation is the undeniable shift in institutional sentiment towards crypto. Menzl explains:

“Institutional adoption, we clearly can see this… Large banks and asset managers are starting to diversify their portfolios by including digital assets.”

While Europe remains a stronghold for crypto banking, Asia and the Middle East are emerging as major hubs. Countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, and the UAE are leading the charge, offering clear regulatory frameworks that attract institutional players.

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Geographic expansion: The global shift

Crypto’s expansion is not just about increasing adoption but also about diversification across markets. Menzl describes the evolving landscape:

“Europe is still our strongest market, but we see massive growth in Asia and the Middle East… More and more clients from these regions are interested in structured products beyond just holding Bitcoin.”

While Switzerland continues to be a hub for secure custody solutions, the demand from Asia and the Middle East suggests that the financial ecosystem is evolving to support a wider range of digital asset use cases.

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Security and trust: The cornerstones of Crypto banking

One of the lingering concerns around digital assets has always been security. Institutional clients demand robust security infrastructure and compliance with global financial regulations. Menzl underscores the significance of security in crypto banking:

“Security, security, and security again. That’s the key when dealing with digital assets. Our clients need confidence in how their assets are managed.”

Amina Bank, as a Swiss-regulated entity, offers institutional-grade custody services, audited by firms like PwC, ensuring that clients can confidently hold and trade digital assets.

Partnerships driving crypto’s future

A critical aspect of crypto’s growth is its integration with traditional banking and startup ecosystems. Tenity and Amina Bank are working together to bridge the gap between financial institutions and Web3 startups. Menzl elaborates:

“We are offering crypto banking services to Tenity’s thriving startup network, fostering closer collaboration and bringing new solutions to the Web3 space.”

Through this partnership, Amina Bank aims to become the trusted banking partner for over 1,500 startups and scale-ups, providing them with financial infrastructure that supports innovation.

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Looking ahead: The road to mainstream Crypto adoption

As institutions increasingly recognize the value of digital assets, the market is poised for exponential growth. The rise of Bitcoin ETFs, regulatory clarity in key markets, and advancements in blockchain infrastructure all contribute to the maturation of the industry.The Davos discussion makes one thing clear: crypto is no longer an outsider—it’s part of the financial establishment. Whether through banking partnerships, investment products, or regulatory advancements, digital assets are becoming an integral part of the financial system.

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Key takeaways:

• Institutional adoption of crypto is accelerating, with major banks and asset managers entering the space.
• Europe remains a stronghold, but Asia and the Middle East are growing rapidly as crypto hubs.
• Security and compliance are top priorities for institutional investors.
• Partnerships between crypto banks and fintech startups are driving innovation.
• The future of digital assets is mainstream finance, with crypto playing an integral role in the broader financial ecosystem.

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For more insights into fintech investment trends, corporate venture capital, and startupgrowth strategies, subscribe to Innovation. Connected – World Economic Forum Davos 2025 Edition.

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