Swiss Crypto Bank Amina Recruits Private Banking Veteran to Lead Asia Expansion

Amina Bank, Switzerland's FINMA-regulated cryptocurrency bank formerly known as Seba, has appointed Michael Benz as head of AMINA Hong Kong and the broader APAC region, marking one of the most senior traditional finance executive moves into regional digital asset banking leadership.

Benz brings over 30 years of private banking and wealth management experience, including roles 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. He will report directly to CEO Franz Bergmueller as Amina seeks to capitalize on Hong Kong's evolving regulatory landscape, according to a statement by Amina Bank today.

The appointment follows AMINA's record 2024 performance, which saw revenue surge 69% to $40.4 million, positioning the firm as Switzerland's fastest-growing crypto bank. Benz replaces Amy Yu, Amina's chief executive officer APAC, who departed in July after two and a half years to join SC Ventures, Standard Chartered's venture arm, as new venture lead.

Benz's arrival coincides with significant regulatory developments in Hong Kong, including the Securities and Futures Commission's ASPIRe roadmap implementation, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority's stablecoin licensing framework that took effect August 1, and the government's Digital Asset Policy 2.0 initiative.

"Michael's expertise in both traditional finance and crypto makes him the ideal leader to continue our expansion across Asia," said CEO Franz Bergmueller. "His exceptional network and deep understanding of client needs will allow us to continue evolving our crypto products and capabilities."

Benz emphasized Hong Kong's unique position in bridging traditional finance and digital assets. "Hong Kong uniquely prioritises practical business adoption in a regulated environment, and crypto technology is no exception," he said. "This creates an extraordinary opportunity for institutions, corporates, and professional investors exploring this new asset class."

Amina said it plans to launch enhanced technology platforms in the second half of 2025 alongside new strategic partnerships in Hong Kong to strengthen its position as institutional crypto infrastructure.