DCG-owned crypto exchange Luno replaces CEO, seeks outside investment after layoffs

cnbc.com:

LONDON — The CEO of cryptocurrency exchange Luno is stepping aside and handing the reins to its head of operations, the company announced Wednesday.

It comes as Luno's parent company, crypto-focused venture capital firm Digital Currency Group, continues to reel from turmoil in the crypto market. Luno also recently laid off 35% of its global workforce.

Marcus Swanepoel, a South African former banker who founded Luno in 2013 with the aim of bringing crypto to the masses, will give up his CEO title after 10 years to become executive chairman, the company said in a press release Wednesday.

James Lanigan, Luno's chief operating officer, will take over the reins as Luno's new CEO. Lanigan joined Luno in 2018 and previously served as chief marketing officer for the restaurant reservation platform TheFork, formerly Bookatable.

As executive chairman, Swanepoel will spend less time in the day-to-day running of Luno, instead working with Lanigan and management to guide strategy and focus on broadening Luno's investor base, the company said.

In a statement, Swanepoel said he was «excited for our next chapter as we continue to put the power of crypto in everyone's hands.»

«The opportunity for crypto is bigger and brighter than ever, and James is a seasoned operator and an outstanding leader with a track record of success across all aspects of running a truly global fintech business.»

Luno said it has also hired investment banking firm Canaccord Genuity Group to help it raise new investment from outside investors. It marks the first time the company is opening up to new investors since being acquired by DCG in 2020.

Luno will aim to raise money from investors other than DCG to help it expand internationally, gain market share, and