Early Life and Education
Jean-Louis van der Velde's journey began in the Netherlands. In 1985, he moved to Taiwan to study at National Taiwan University, where he graduated in 1988. This move marked the beginning of his deep connection with Asia, which shaped his future career endeavors.
Rise to Success
Following his education, van der Velde co-founded several IT companies in Asia, specializing in hardware design, software development, and emerging technologies. His experience during the dot-com era, including speaking engagements at technology conferences, highlighted his expertise in open-source technologies. In 2013, he co-founded Bitfinex and became its CEO, transforming it into a leading cryptocurrency exchange, and prioritizing regulatory compliance. In addition to his role at Bitfinex, van der Velde served as the CEO of Tether, a stablecoin that has become a cornerstone of the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Key Business Strategies
Van der Velde's strategic vision for Bitfinex focused on a robust trading infrastructure and stringent regulatory compliance, implementing AML/KYC protocols to foster trust. His leadership at Tether ensured the stability and reliability of USDT in the volatile crypto market, overseeing operations, financial strategies, and legal compliance.
Philanthropy
Jean-Louis van der Velde is also involved in philanthropic efforts, establishing foundations focused on education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. He has invested in clean energy projects and advocates for corporate responsibility in addressing climate change.