--- title: Crypto Corner description: Crypto Corner --- [![Syz Private banking](https://blog.syzgroup.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Logo.png?width=140&name=Logo.png "Syz Private banking")](https://www.syzgroup.com/fr) ## **Thinking** out loud [Subscribe](https://25733253.hs-sites-eu1.com/newsletter-signup?hsLang=en) [![Contact Us](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/25733253/3d762f49-4e71-4f99-97b1-bf6781ef3da2.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/25733253/3d762f49-4e71-4f99-97b1-bf6781ef3da2) - [OUR SERVICES](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/private-banking) - [ABOUT SYZ](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/about/welcome-to-syz) - [CAREERS](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/careers) - [PRESS](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/news) - [Blog Homepage](https://blog.syzgroup.com) - [Slow Food for Thought](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thought) - [Focus](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/focus) - [Asset allocations Insights](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/asset-allocation-insights) - [Market Outlook](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/market-outlook) - [Swiss Perspectives](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/swiss-perspectives) - [Syz the moment](https://blog.syzgroup.com/syz-the-moment) - [Crypto corner](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner) - [Syz AI Insights](https://blog.syzgroup.com/syz-ai-insights) - [Fast Food for Thought](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thought) - [The week in seven charts](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thoughts/tag/the-week-in-seven-charts) - [Flash](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thoughts/tag/flash) - [Fixed Income Weekly](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thought/tag/weekly-fixed-income) - [Equity Weekly](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thought/tag/weekly-equities) - [Global markets outlook](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thoughts/tag/global-markets-outlook) - [CONTACT](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/contact-us/form) - [ENGLISH](https://www.syzgroup.com/) - [FRANÇAIS](https://www.syzgroup.com/fr) - [Slow Food for Thought](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thought) - [Focus](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/focus) - [Asset allocations Insights](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/asset-allocation-insights) - [Market Outlook](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/market-outlook) - [Swiss Perspectives](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/swiss-perspectives) - [Fast Food for Thought](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thought) - [Flash](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thoughts/tag/flash) - [Weekly Fixed Income](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thought/tag/weekly-fixed-income) - [The week in seven charts](https://blog.syzgroup.com/slow-food-for-thoughts/tag/the-week-in-seven-charts) - [Global markets outlook](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thoughts/tag/global-markets-outlook) - [Weekly Equities](https://blog.syzgroup.com/fast-food-for-thought/tag/weekly-equities) - [Syz the moment](https://blog.syzgroup.com/syz-the-moment) - [Crypto corner](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner) - [Syz AI Insights](https://blog.syzgroup.com/syz-ai-insights) - [Our Services](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/private-banking) - [About Syz](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/about/welcome-to-syz) - [Careers](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/careers) - [Press](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/news) - [Contact](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/contact-us/form) - [English](https://www.syzgroup.com/) - [Français](https://www.syzgroup.com/fr) ## **Sign-up** for our newsletter This website uses cookies to enhance user navigation and to collect statistical data. You can change your settings below to refuse the use of cookies. For more information, please refer to the [Cookies policy](https://www.syzgroup.com/en/legal-notices). Mandatory cookies Functional cookies Statistics & marketing I confirm I am not a US citizen residing in the US I confirm I am not accessing this site from the US I confirm that I am not a resident of Canada (except for Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia or Alberta). Agree and confirm ### Restricted access We are sorry that for legal reasons we are not able to help US citizens or Canadian residents other than in Ontario, Quebec, or Alberta. Best wishes for the future… ### Restricted access We are sorry that for legal reasons we are not able to help US citizens or Canadian residents other than in Ontario, Quebec, or Alberta. Best wishes for the future… You chose the following profile. If you made a mistake, please change here USA Country Switzerland Canada: Other than Ontario, Quebec, Alberta Canada: Ontario, Quebec or Alberta USA Other country Language Language English French German Italian I confirm Legal information This marketing document has been issued by Bank Syz Ltd. It is not intended for distribution to, publication, provision or use by individuals or legal entities that are citizens of or reside in a state, country or jurisdiction in which applicable laws and regulations prohibit its distribution, publication, provision or use. It is not directed to any person or entity to whom it would be illegal to send such marketing material. This document is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an offer, solicitation or recommendation for the subscription, purchase, sale or safekeeping of any security or financial instrument or for the engagement in any other transaction, as the provision of any investment advice or service, or as a contractual document. Nothing in this document constitutes an investment, legal, tax or accounting advice or a representation that any investment or strategy is suitable or appropriate for an investor's particular and individual circumstances, nor does it constitute a personalized investment advice for any investor. This document reflects the information, opinions and comments of Bank Syz Ltd. as of the date of its publication, which are subject to change without notice. The opinions and comments of the authors in this document reflect their current views and may not coincide with those of other Syz Group entities or third parties, which may have reached different conclusions. The market valuations, terms and calculations contained herein are estimates only. The information provided comes from sources deemed reliable, but Bank Syz Ltd. does not guarantee its completeness, accuracy, reliability and actuality. Past performance gives no indication of nor guarantees current or future results. Bank Syz Ltd. accepts no liability for any loss arising from the use of this document. # Crypto corner A monthly deep dive into crypto assets #### [Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/bitcoin-as-a-strategic-reserve-asset) President Donald Trump signed an executive order relating to cryptocurrencies. The US is now one step closer to the creation of a strategic bitcoin reserve. Overview below. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 28 January 2025 #### [Crypto Outlook 2025](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/crypto-outlook-2025) "There are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen." - Vladimir Ilyich Lenin **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 08 January 2025 #### [Ethereum vs. Solana: the match](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/ethereum-vs.-solana-the-match) Solana and Ethereum are two dominant blockchains in the crypto sector, each boasting robust DeFi ecosystems and a plethora of diverse applications. The two blockchains are often seen as competitors. How do they compare? **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 26 November 2024 #### [Microstrategy’s “bet” on Bitcoin](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/microstrategys-bet-on-bitcoin) Is it the “trade of the century”? MicroStrategy’s stock price soared 600% in the past 12 months, thanks to the audacious Bitcoin strategy of its visionary founder, Michael Saylor. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 19 November 2024 #### [Did HBO solve the Satoshi Nakamoto mystery?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/did-hbo-solve-the-satoshi-nakamoto-mystery) In its documentary aired on 8 October 2024, HBO claims to have uncovered the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto, the founder of the world’s largest cryptocurrency, Bitcoin. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 16 October 2024 #### [The rise of stablecoins](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/the-rise-of-stablecoins) In recent years, the rise of stablecoins has strongly transformed the landscape of digital finance, with over $170 billion of these digital assets now held globally, according to CoinGecko. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 17 September 2024 #### [Blockchain Student Association from EPFL - Is Avalanche Ethereum's contender?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/is-avalanche-ethereums-contender) At its core, Avalanche is an open-source platform engineered to support decentralized applications (dApps) and enterprise blockchain solutions within a singular, interoperable, and scalable ecosystem. Its inception was motivated by the desire to overcome certain challenges inherent in Ethereum, particularly the slower transaction times and the one-size-fits-all nature of its blockchain structure. Avalanche’s founder envisioned a platform that could cater to diverse needs through modular design, leading to the development of subnets. These innovations have attracted a range of diverse companies such as Visa, Amazon, JPMorgan and CitiGroup to consider and explore implementing Avalanche’s technology. **[-](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/-)** 18 July 2024 #### [Blockchain Student Association from EPFL - Exploring Smart Contracts: A Technical and Financial Perspective](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/exploring-smart-contracts-a-technical-and-financial-perspective) The innovation of smart contracts is one of the most significant advances in the blockchain space, particularly with the development of Ethereum, which marked a pivotal moment in broadening the applications of blockchain technology beyond Bitcoin's initial scope. Ethereum's creation was driven by the limitations of Bitcoin's scripting capabilities, which restricted the execution of complex agreements. Vitalik Buterin's vision, outlined in the Ethereum white paper in 2013, proposed a platform that could facilitate more sophisticated applications through smart contracts and secondary tokens. This concept was revolutionary, as it extended blockchain utility beyond simple transactions to a broader range of decentralized applications (dApps), funded and developed through an innovative approach that leveraged the potential of blockchain technology for more than just cryptocurrencies. **[-](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/-)** 11 July 2024 #### [Blockchain Student Association from EPFL - Cryptocurrency custody](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/cryptocurrency-custody) Cryptocurrency custody is currently under the spotlight, a development that is both timely and deserved. Following the SEC's green light for spot bitcoin ETFs, a wide range of investors, financial advisors, and institutions are delving into the realm for their initial exploration, aiming to grasp the intricacies of how digital assets are securely stored and safeguarded. With a variety of custody solutions available, understanding the nuances between them is crucial. This article delves into the distinctions between hot wallets, cold wallets, and third-party custody solutions, shedding light on the different techniques used in banking and how entities like Taurus in Europe and Coinbase in the United States are pioneering in the custody space. **[-](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/-)** 05 July 2024 #### [Blockchain and tokenisation in the luxury world](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/blockchain-and-tokenisation-in-the-luxury-world) New technologies linked to blockchain are likely to play an important role in the luxury goods industry in the coming years. Overview below with a few case studies. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 03 July 2024 #### [Digital tokens backed by gold](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/digital-tokens-backed-by-gold) Banking giant HSBC has just embarked on the tokenisation of gold, enabling the precious metal to be invested and traded digitally. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 22 May 2024 #### [Lugano, Europe's crypto hub?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/lugano-europes-crypto-hub) Thanks to numerous strategic partnerships and visionary local players, Ticino's largest city is establishing itself as a European cryptocurrency and blockchain capital. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 17 May 2024 #### [Hyperbitcoinisation: Paying for your coffee in bitcoin?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/hyperbitcoinisation-paying-for-your-coffee-in-bitcoin) Hyperbitcoinisation is not just about the growing success of bitcoin. It is actually a scenario in which the digital token becomes the world's dominant currency. Overview. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 30 April 2024 #### [The fourth Bitcoin "halving"](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/the-fourth-bitcoin-halving) At the end of the week, a major event will take place in the cryptocurrency world. It's called the bitcoin halving. Scheduled 15 years ago, this process occurs approximately every four years, making bitcoin rarer over time. Preview below. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 16 April 2024 #### [What is bitcoin's target price?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/what-is-bitcoins-target-price) The price of bitcoin has surged sharply since the beginning of the year, having increased almost fivefold from its 2022 lows. How high can the price go? In this article, we attempt to answer this question using two very distinct valuation models **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 19 March 2024 #### [BRICS bet on blockchain](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/brics-bet-on-blockchain) In an effort to reduce the BRICS member state’s dependence on global financial institutions in 2024, they will be testing exchanges between themselves in national currencies, through a common system. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 13 March 2024 #### [Dreamstime by Sarah Benslimane](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/dreamstime) Recently, we took a bold step into the digital art realm by tokenizing the unique piece "Dreamstime" by Sarah Benslimane for our employees. This pioneering move marks a significant stride in the evolution of wealth management, underscoring our commitment to innovation. In this article, we delve into the visionary collaboration between Bank Syz and the talented artist Sarah Benslimane. **[Sarah Benslimane](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/sarah-benslimane)** 26 January 2024 #### [Cryptocurrencies in 2024: A Comprehensive Outlook](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/cryptocurrencies-in-2024-a-comprehensive-outlook) 2023 was a transformative year in the cryptocurrency landscape. In this article, we explore the key developments that shaped the crypto space in 2023 and provide insights into the anticipated trends and potential shifts for 2024. We delve into what promises to be another pivotal year for this dynamic and rapidly evolving sector. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 11 January 2024 #### [Bitcoin Ordinals: the next big thing in digital assets](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/nfts-the-day-after-0) Bitcoin ordinals introduce a distinct form of digital asset to the Bitcoin blockchain, akin to non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Their advent is much more than a technological breakthrough in the field of digital assets; ordinals increase the economic value of the Bitcoin network. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 05 December 2023 #### [Are we ready to tokenise the Syz Art Collection?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/are-we-ready-to-tokenise-the-syz-art-collection) In a world where change is a constant, it’s important for businesses to embrace innovation, challenge the status quo and try out new ideas. This is something for which we’ve always stood by at Syz Group. And so, when a group of colleagues suggested tokenising a real asset – in this case a piece of art – it felt like a natural next step to our digital asset journey. In a pioneering move, we have successfully tokenised a piece of art and distributed these unique tokens amongst our employees. This bold initiative is not only a testament to our commitment to innovation but also a development that marks a significant stride in the evolution of wealth management, for the long-term benefits of our clients and the Syz Group. **[Nicolas Syz](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/nicolas-syz)** 05 December 2023 #### [Why Binance's settlement is a positive signal for digital assets](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/why-binances-settlement-is-a-positive-signal-for-digital-assets) Binance takes a large punch from the SEC, leaving them bruised, but alive Binance’s labyrinthine operational shady dealings have long been crypto’s ‘known unknown’. For that reason, news that the company has been landed with one of the largest corporate penalties in US history came as no surprise. The crypto industry has been aware its largest exchange has been operating illicitly for years. Binance turned a blind eye to its legal obligations for KYC / AML, enabling the potential for funds to flow to terrorists and other criminals through its platform. This Tuesday, the industry breathed a sigh of relief as Binance took their hit: $4.3bln fine, CZ the CEO stepping down, with an expectation of sentencing later. We are pleased action has finally been taken and believe Binance’s settlement with US regulators is a long-term positive development for a number of reasons. **[Richard Byworth](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/richard-byworth)** 29 November 2023 #### [NFTs: The Day After](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/nfts-the-day-after) Beyond crypto currencies, blockchain has a wide range of applications: storing documents (diplomas, digital identity), real estate information, etc. To facilitate these applications, it is very useful to use non-fungible tokens. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 29 November 2023 #### [How FTX forced the crypto industry to grow up](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/how-ftx-forced-the-crypto-industry-to-grow-up) FTX marked the end of the beginning. In the wake of its dramatic collapse, the cryptocurrency industry awoke to harsh realities. The fevered speculation of skyrocketing NFT prices has been replaced by sober debate around regulation, scrutiny over use cases, value, and environmental impact. While some purists may still harbour hopes that crypto will return to its fully decentralised roots, the truth is that the FTX saga was a seismic moment for digital assets. It has compelled the crypto world to mature and incorporate elements of the traditional financial sector to protect investors. **[Richard Byworth](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/richard-byworth)** 27 November 2023 #### [Will Grayscale victory against the SEC clear the path for Spot Bitcoin ETF?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/will-grayscale-victory-against-the-sec-clear-the-path-for-spot-bitcoin-etf) The tug-of-war between Grayscale and the SEC over the conversion of the famous Bitcoin Trust into an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) continues to rock the cryptocurrency world. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 05 September 2023 #### [Could a bitcoin spot ETF from Blackrock be a turning point for cryptos?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/anti-fragile-assets-0-0-0-1-0-0) The world's largest asset manager has just filed an application with the US regulator to launch what could become the first ETF directly invested in bitcoin. What are the chances of success? What are the consequences? **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 28 June 2023 #### [Digital assets in discretionary portfolio management](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/anti-fragile-assets-0-0-0-0-0) Is it possible and sensible to introduce cryptocurrencies and other digital assets into a discretionary management mandate? Find out more below. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 01 June 2023 #### [A crypto update in 7 points](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/a-crypto-update-in-7-points) Bitcoin flirting with $30,000, another successful upgrade on Ethereum, NFTs volume picking up: 2023 is off to a strong start for cryptos. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 25 April 2023 #### [Is Ethereum’s long-awaited “The Merge” upgrade a game changer?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/en/insights/ethereum-s-long-awaited-merge-upgrade-game-changer) The price of Ether (ETH) rebounded strongly in July. Renewed risk appetite certainly played a role, but some investors are looking positively at a major change in the way the blockchain Ethereum will operate, starting  19 September.  **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 09 August 2022 5 min read #### [A post-mortem on the Luna crash](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/en/insights/post-mortem-luna-crash) The collapse of the LUNA token and de-peg of the UST stablecoin provide a number of lessons about investing in cryptocurrencies. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 31 May 2022 6 min read #### [OpenSea: on its way to an IPO?](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/en/insights/opensea-its-way-ipo) The world's largest NFT exchange could go public in late 2023 or early 2024. In today’s Focus, we discuss OpenSea’s value proposition and business model, as well as some threats to its supremacy in a hyper-growth niche market. **[Charles-Henry Monchau, CFA, CMT, CAIA](https://blog.syzgroup.com/crypto-corner/author/charles-henry-monchau)** 24 March 2022 5 min read Load More ## **Thinking** out loud Sign up for our weekly email highlighting the most popular posts. 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