Cryptocurrency institution Amina hires seasoned private banking figurehead for management of Asia's growth strategy

Amina Bank Appoints Michael Benz as Head of APAC, Expanding in Hong Kong

Michael Benz has been named as the new head of AMINA Hong Kong and the broader APAC region, marking a significant step in the cryptocurrency bank's expansion in Asia.

Based in Switzerland, Amina Bank, formerly known as Seba, is a FINMA-regulated cryptocurrency bank. The bank's appointment of Benz comes after a record-breaking 2024 performance, where revenue surged 69% to $40.4 million, making it Switzerland's fastest-growing crypto bank.

Hong Kong's focus on practical business adoption in a regulated environment, including for crypto technology, presents an opportunity for institutions, corporates, and professional investors exploring the new asset class. Benz highlighted Hong Kong's unique position in bridging traditional finance and digital assets.

The regulatory developments in Hong Kong, such as the implementation of the Securities and Futures Commission's ASPIRe roadmap and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority's stablecoin licensing framework, coincide with Benz's appointment. These regulatory advancements are expected to provide opportunities for Amina Bank to capitalize on Hong Kong's evolving regulatory landscape.

Benz brings over 30 years of experience in private banking and wealth management to Amina Bank. He has held roles such as global head of private banking at Standard Chartered, CEO of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Asia, and head of product and services at UBS Wealth Management APAC. His expertise in both traditional finance and cryptocurrency makes him the ideal leader for Amina Bank's expansion in Asia, as stated by CEO Franz Bergmueller.

Benz's extensive network and deep understanding of client needs will allow Amina Bank to continue evolving its crypto products and capabilities. The bank plans to strengthen its position as an institutional digital currency infrastructure in Hong Kong in the second half of 2025 through expanded technology platform partnerships.

Notably, Amina Bank will deepen its alliance with Metalpha Technology for digital asset wealth management and collaborate with Circle and Ripple to advance regulated stablecoin financing. These collaborations target qualified professional investors and leverage innovative blockchain ecosystems to enhance digital asset services and institutional demand.

The government of Hong Kong has also initiated the Digital Asset Policy 2.0, further supporting the growth of the digital asset industry in the region. Amina Bank's entry into Hong Kong marks a significant milestone in the city's ongoing efforts to establish itself as a global hub for digital assets.

Previously, Amy Yu, Amina's chief executive officer APAC, departed in July to join SC Ventures, Standard Chartered's venture arm, as new venture lead. Benz will report directly to CEO Franz Bergmueller at Amina Bank.

As Amina Bank prepares to launch enhanced technology platforms in the second half of 2025, the appointment of Benz signals a promising future for the bank's growth and success in the APAC region.

Cryptocurrency institution Amina hires seasoned private banking figurehead for management of Asia's growth strategy