Stefan Kimmel, the Chief Executive Officer of M2, sat down with Matt Zahab from Cryptonews Podcast for an exclusive interview. They delved into topics such as the Ethereum ETF, institutional adoption of crypto, and how exchanges can offer high yields up to 10%.
M2 is a regulated exchange and investment platform based in Abu Dhabi, boasting licenses from the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and various international regulators. Kimmel emphasized the importance of being fully regulated, transparent, and safe as the foundation of M2’s operations.
The company offers a range of product lines, including trading and investment products, with a focus on earning passive income. Kimmel referred to this as the “sweet spot” of combining products while maintaining full regulatory compliance.
In terms of creating yields, M2 has utilized three main avenues, including collaborating with a Bitcoin miner, offering lending products for collateralized loans, and leveraging an in-house asset management team with specific strategies.
Kimmel highlighted the role of traditional financial institutions in promoting the credibility of the crypto industry, with companies like BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, and Fidelity launching ETFs and running ads on national TV in the US.
When discussing regulations, Kimmel noted the stark contrast between the UAE and the US. While the UAE provides clear rules and a supportive infrastructure for crypto companies, the US struggles with regulatory clarity. Despite the US being a desirable market, many companies, including M2, choose to operate from crypto-friendly jurisdictions.
Looking ahead, Kimmel discussed key industry trends, such as the influx of institutional investors and the adoption of real-world assets, which he believes will significantly impact market dynamics in the long run.
In addition to these topics, Kimmel also touched upon M2’s presence at TOKEN2049, the potential impact of an ETH ETF, and why crypto companies are hesitant to operate in the US. He highlighted the UAE as a strong hub for crypto innovation and speculated on which country could emerge as the next crypto powerhouse.
Stefan Kimmel, with over 25 years of experience in finance and fintech, leads M2 in its mission to establish a world-class digital currency investment platform. His insights shed light on the evolving landscape of the crypto industry and the future prospects it holds.