Table of Contents
Global financial services firm Northern Trust has announced the appointment of Kai Jebens as head of client development, Southeast Asia, and Chris Vera as Senior digital solutions consultant, APAC. The strategic hires underscore the firm's commitment to expanding its digital asset capabilities in the region.
Jebens, with a proven track record in the Asia-Pacific market, will be instrumental in driving the growth of Northern Trust's custody, fund accounting, data, and digital services. His focus on collaborating with leading sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, asset managers, and consultants positions the firm to capitalize on the burgeoning digital assets landscape.
Vera's deep expertise in investment data, technology, and operations will be crucial in supporting clients as they navigate the complexities of the digital asset ecosystem. His role as senior digital solutions consultant will involve developing and enhancing target operating models for clients in the region.
Northern Trust has been actively exploring opportunities in the digital asset space, recognizing the transformative potential of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. It collaborated with BondEvalue in 2020 to complete the world’s first blockchain-based bond trade, and partnered in the launch of institutional-grade crypto asset custodian Zodia Custody in 2021.
Speaking to Blockhead, the firm said, "Northern Trust has been very active in partnering with our clients and the industry on blockchain and the digital assets ecosystem."
"These new roles will help broaden and deepen those conversations in existing and prospective client engagements to turn strategic direction into reality," Northern Trust added.
"There are increasing opportunities to apply new technologies in how we solve challenges with tangible business value for our clients. Northern Trust’s increased focus in these areas aligns with the opportunities we see."
In 2022, the firm created its Digital Assets and Financial Markets group, combining the teams responsible for supporting the digital asset markets and those dedicated to providing market access and insights across the traditional securities services markets.
As of March 31, 2024, Northern Trust had assets under custody/administration of $16.5 trillion, and assets under management of $1.5 trillion, according to the firm.
