CEO Insights Magazine

The catalyst for my paradigm shift emerged from a deep-seated passion for technology, particularly digital assets since 2016. This fervor led me to relinquish the confines of traditional banking, metamorphosing into an independent director and advisor specializing in the fusion of financial services, technology, and digital assets. The crux of my current endeavors lies in contributing to innovative projects, for both financial services incumbents and digital asset players, including the build-out of a digital bank and a digital asset wealth platform.

In essence, my motivation remains rooted in the pursuit of innovation and impact. Traditional banking was a canvas for constant improvement, a philosophy I've seamlessly carried into the realm of digital assets. Whether crafting financial solutions or navigating the intricacies of technology, my professional ethos revolves around enhancing the bottom line for clients. This unwavering commitment to purpose-driven progress propels me forward in my new chapter, bridging the realms of digital assets and traditional finance.

You possess over twenty-four years of experience. How has been your path to success and what is your success mantra?

My professional journey spanning over two decades has been a nuanced exploration, not a linear trajectory. Early in my banking career, the pursuit of self-discovery shaped my path, unveiling preferences and dislikes. Authenticity became my guiding principle amidst corporate politics, where I firmly believe in being genuine and personable. Beyond industry specifics, I've learned that personal connection precedes professional efficacy. Convincing others starts with presenting oneself authentically. Moreover, my success mantra encompasses valuing the team behind me and recognizing real individuals who contribute to victories. Celebrating collective success is paramount; it's not just about personal achievements but the collaborative efforts of a dedicated team. Throughout, I've championed a holistic view, urging everyone, irrespective of their role, to ponder how they can enhance client experiences and contribute to the collective betterment of the organization.

How would you define your role and your current positioning in the market?

In my current capacity as independent board member and advisor, my role stands at the crossroads of traditional banking and the digital asset space, leveraging my extensive experience and network. Serving as a bridge between these realms, my primary focus lies in advising traditional financial institutions, FinTech companies, and digital asset enterprises on strategic alignment. I guide institutions in navigating the complexities of tokenization, decentralized finance, and Web 3.0, addressing pivotal questions on product offerings, ethical customer service, and wealth redistribution. For traditional institutions looking to venture into digital assets, I provide insights on products, customers and partnership decisions. Digital asset firms on the other hand benefit from my expertise in banking, customer segments, licensing and regulatory compliance. Additionally, I extend my advisory to regular companies, offering strategic counsel on embedded finance, integrating digital assets into corporate finance and treasury management. My multifaceted role encompasses empowering organizations to navigate the evolving landscape of finance and technology, facilitating informed decisions and sustainable growth in new areas.

Tell us about your leading approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a board advisor?

As an independent board member and advisor, my approach is distinctly hands-on, grounded in a comprehensive understanding of both traditional finance and the digital space. With an acute awareness of the challenges faced by players in both domains, I delve into advisory with a focus on practical management implementations and negotiations on behalf of my clients. Contrary to some perceptions in the digital asset space, I maintain a clear perspective that while powerful, digital assets are not the panacea for the financial services industry. I view them as a transformative aspect, often subject to macroeconomic dynamics. In my advisory approach, end-customer focus remains paramount, extending from institutional to retail customers. For FinTech startups, I emphasize the dual importance of pushing boundaries while maintaining a meticulous focus on operational and legal risks. The essence of my methodologies lies in a continuous commitment to understanding clients, driving innovation, and ensuring a robust financial understanding of the business landscape.

How do you keep yourself up-to-date with ongoing industry trends to steer organizations toward the future?

Staying abreast of industry trends is integral to my role. I prioritize extensive reading, and maintaining a robust network in both traditional finance and digital asset sectors. This network provides invaluable access to data, information, and insights, fostering a holistic understanding of the evolving landscape. Actively participating in global industry conferences allows me to engage with emerging technologies and key market players. As a panelist in discussions and attendee at various conferences worldwide, I ensure continuous exposure to cutting-edge developments, enabling me to guide organizations toward the future with informed and innovative strategies.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

The trajectory ahead for me holds immense potential within the ever-evolving landscape of traditional finance and digital assets. With the global financial services market encompassing a staggering $28 trillion, constituting nearly 25 percent of the global economy, there exists a profound opportunity for transformation and disruption. An intriguing facet is that nearly 60 v of the $16 trillion market cap in the financial services industry is dominated by companies over 50 years old, signaling a ripe potential for innovation. The current inflection point in financial services is not just an arena for FinTech disruptors; it equally beckons incumbent financial institutions to redefine and optimize their operations. My role is positioned at the nexus of this transformative journey, leveraging my extensive experience to bridge traditional financial services with digital assets. Selectively embracing supervisory board positions and advisory roles, I navigate towards opportunities where I can contribute the most value to this dynamic evolution in the financial industry.

In light of your strong experience within the industry, what advice would you give to budding industry leaders?

Drawing from my vast experience in the corporate environment, my advice to emerging industry leaders centers on authenticity and decisive leadership. In any industry, compromises are necessary, but it's crucial to stay true to your convictions and articulate a clear vision. Empower your team to be authentic and genuine, fostering an environment where individuals can make independent decisions. Building a team of responsible decision-makers is more effective than cultivating a legion of corporate drones. While the finance sector, which is inherently regulated, faces challenges particularly in navigating the inclusion of digital assets, there are abundant opportunities. Emerging leaders must harness the industry's capital, brains and trusted brands to drive innovation, recognizing that the finance landscape is evolving, and a new generation of leaders can strategically leverage existing strengths to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities.

Jorg Huges, Banking, FinTech & Digital Assets Advisor, Yield App

Born and educated in The Netherlands, Jorg Huges had a continual fascination with Asia, rooted in family heritage. Following two banking internships in Jakarta and Hong Kong during university, he secured his inaugural investment banking position in Hong Kong. Over the subsequent two decades, Jorg navigated a corporate and investment banking career, with periods spent in both Europe and Hong Kong, primarily concentrating on Asian business. While transitioning from traditional banking to the dynamic domains of fintech and digital assets, Hong Kong retained its significance as a central operating hub for Jorg.

Hobbies: Padel, Technology, Investing

Favorite Cuisine: Italian

Favorite Book: The Odyssey

Favorite Travel Destination: Spain