Blockchain.com Shakes Up Leadership: Lane Kasselman Promoted to Dual-CEO Role in Bold Power Move

Blockchain.com just ripped a page from the corporate playbook—and crypto's never been about playing by the rules. The exchange announced Lane Kasselman's promotion to co-CEO alongside its existing chief, a power-sharing gambit that reeks of either genius or desperation.

Two captains, one ship—what could go wrong?

Dual-CEO structures are rare in TradFi (where grown-ups prefer clear hierarchies), but crypto loves to experiment. Kasselman, previously chief commercial officer, now shares the throne—presumably to 'accelerate growth' or 'leverage synergies,' because that’s what executives say when they’re not saying anything.

Timing is… interesting.

The move comes as Bitcoin flirts with $100K again, and every exchange is scrambling to prove they’re not the next FTX. Splitting the top job might diffuse blame if things go south—or maybe it’s just a hedge, like crypto bros hedging their bets with shitcoin portfolios.

One thing’s certain: in an industry built on decentralization, centralized leadership was always going to feel ironic. Now they’ve just doubled down on the irony—and the salaries.

Smith acknowledges Kasselman’s contribution to Blockchain.com

Regarding Kasselman’s promotion, Smith released a statement praising the new co-CEO for playing a crucial role in growing the business since they met in 2015. He also acknowledged Kasselman’s leadership in important areas and his contribution to shaping Blockchain.com’s vision. 

Under this new appointment, the two leaders publicly stated that they intend to concentrate on different parts of the business. Smith will be responsible for engineering strategy and product innovation, while Kasselman will supervise business operations, brand strategy projects, and capital markets.

Based on Smith’s argument, this shared leadership model is necessary for running the company’s operations, as it enables the harmonization of business skills and technical execution.

Several analysts weighed in on the topic. They argued that this approach will enable Blockchain.com to build and innovate more efficiently for its next phase. This will take place while ensuring that the company does not rely on just one location or leader, the analysts added.

Founded in 2011, Blockchain.com has participated in digital asset treasury services as both a provider and an investor, and also operates a popular crypto wallet. It is worth noting that the company relocated its US headquarters from New York City to Miami in 2021.

Meanwhile, apart from appointing Kasselman to expand the company’s presence in the US, with a new headquarters in Dallas, Texas, Blockchain.com also extended its reach in Europe. The news was released after the firm acquired a MiCA license in Malta on October 23, 2025. 

This MOVE grants Blockchain.com the opportunity to join other crypto firms, such as Gemini, Gate, and Kraken, that are also seeking to enter the EU market through Malta, an island nation in Europe.

A spokesperson from Blockchain.com commented on this significant progress, noting that this island offers the right balance of clear regulations, strategic access to the European Economic Area, and institutional knowledge. 

Blockchain.com acquires a MiCA license, expanding its presence in Europe 

Blockchain.com’s representative stated that Malta will serve as the hub for their European operations going forward. “With Fiorentina D’Amore now heading our EU strategy from Malta, we are well-prepared to grow our services across the region while ensuring full compliance and strong local leadership,” the spokesperson added.

Sources, on the other hand, acknowledged that this licensing is a significant move for Blockchain.com in Europe. They also highlighted that the firm has shifted its attention from centralized exchanges to providing brokerage services, institutional infrastructure, and self-custody wallet offerings—fields that are increasingly vital for the company. 

The spokesperson also stated that Blockchain.com is closely monitoring regulatory changes in the UK, Singapore, Latin America, and the Middle East. The firm is also considering a public listing in the US. However, Blockchain.com did not respond to rumors about plans for one that surfaced earlier.

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