Crypto Custody Leader Copper Names Amar Kuchinad as Global CEO to Drive Expansion

Copper, a prominent cryptocurrency custody firm, has announced a leadership transition with significant implications for institutional crypto adoption. Amar Kuchinad, with extensive background in both traditional finance and regulatory policy, has been named the company’s new global CEO, taking over from founder Dmitry Tokarev who will remain on the board as founder director. The appointment comes as Copper accelerates its global expansion strategy and strengthens its market position in key institutional markets.

Who Is Amar Kuchinad: From SEC to Finance Leadership

Amar Kuchinad brings a unique blend of experience spanning investment banking and regulatory expertise. He previously held positions at major financial institutions Credit Suisse and Goldman Sachs, where he honed his understanding of institutional asset management and compliance frameworks. His most distinctive credential comes from his tenure as a senior policy advisor to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)—a background that proves invaluable in the heavily regulated cryptocurrency custody space.

This SEC experience positions Amar Kuchinad at the intersection of traditional finance oversight and digital asset innovation. As institutional investors increasingly allocate capital to crypto, regulators like the SEC have become central to determining adoption pathways. Kuchinad’s understanding of regulatory expectations and policy frameworks positions him to navigate the complex landscape that custody providers must operate within.

Copper’s Global Strategy Under New Leadership

Under Kuchinad’s leadership, Copper will prioritize strengthening its presence in the U.S. market while advancing its broader international expansion. The company has already demonstrated ambition on the global stage, securing a Trust or Company Service Provider (TCSP) license in Hong Kong earlier this year as part of its Asia-Pacific expansion strategy. This regulatory approval signals Copper’s commitment to serving institutional clients across multiple jurisdictions.

The custody business has become increasingly central to cryptocurrency market infrastructure. As digital assets mature from speculative instruments to institutional portfolio components, the role of secure, regulated custody providers has grown proportionally. Copper’s appointment of Amar Kuchinad reflects the sector’s shift toward leadership that understands both blockchain technology and institutional-grade compliance.

Building Institutional Trust in Crypto Custody

The cryptocurrency custody sector faces ongoing challenges around institutional trust and regulatory clarity. By appointing Amar Kuchinad—someone with established credibility within both financial and regulatory circles—Copper is signaling its commitment to bridging the gap between traditional institutional finance and digital asset markets.

For institutional investors considering cryptocurrency exposure, the caliber of custody infrastructure and its leadership often serves as a critical trust indicator. Kuchinad’s regulatory background and experience at premier financial institutions reassure institutional clients that Copper maintains standards aligned with traditional finance expectations. This positioning becomes increasingly important as more institutional capital eyes cryptocurrency allocations and demands custody solutions meeting enterprise-grade security and compliance standards.