Nathanaël Cohen's journey into digital assets is a testament to the transformative power of blockchain technology in the financial sector.
As a pioneer in the field, Cohen recognized early on the potential of cryptocurrencies and took decisive steps to immerse himself in this new frontier.
His diverse experiences range from shaping the success of one of the first FCA-regulated brokers, Enigma Securities, to launching the INDIGO Fund and SH Digital.
His ventures have yielded significant financial gains and serve as guiding lights for those navigating the complex world of crypto investments. This is the story of one man's inspiring transition and his substantial contribution to the present-day crypto industry.
Early Career
Nathanaël's personal and professional interests have aligned since his time at university. During his tenure at the Paris School of Business, he received his Master's in International Finance and wrote his thesis on how blockchain and crypto pave the way for more inclusive systems.
Professionally, his foray into the world of cryptocurrency started in 2017 when he joined Enigma Securities as Head of Sales Trading.
At the time, Enigma was one of the first FCA-regulated brokers dealing with digital assets.
Cohen played a pivotal role in shaping its success, establishing its reputation as a trusted and reputable UK-based institution in the emerging crypto market, building key relationships with prominent hedge funds and family offices, and helping the company to facilitate over $8 billion in digital asset transactions.
With his finger on the pulse of the industry, Cohen's early entry into the space set him apart as a key player in this nascent ecosystem. He maneuvered between London and New York, both hubs for early crypto companies looking to make their mark.
The Birth of INDIGO Fund
In 2022, Cohen co-founded INDIGO Fund with co-founders Thomas Puech, DJ Blondish, and Liana Hillison. The fund was launched with 15 limited partners, including renowned names such as Winklevoss Capital, MoonPay's CEO, and the Sandbox founding team.
INDIGO is an actively managed fund. It's alpha-centric, meaning that the goal is to beat the market consistently. So far, they're doing it. The team hunts for the most promising strategies while hedging against potential downturns.
Despite the turbulent market conditions in 2022, INDIGO Fund was able to withstand the bear market and deliver impressive returns for its investors.
By December 2023, INDIGO Fund had achieved a +37.42% YTD return, increasing investor returns.
These remarkable figures highlight the fund's expertise in managing digital assets and its potential for lucrative returns, even in a highly volatile market.
Currently, Cohen holds the position of CIO within the firm. The Chief Investment Officer is responsible for building and deploying profitable investment strategies and finding the best protocols for the fund. This means staying on top of trends in blockchain, security measures, and emerging technologies.
It's not a matter of keeping his finger on the pulse. He has to stay ahead. Like a bloodhound, Cohen stays on the hunt for the best tokens and tech to help his firm and its investors stay ahead of other funds and find new protocols that can potentially turn into the next big thing.
Reshaping the Narrative Around Crypto Investments
Beyond financial gains, INDIGO Fund has played a significant role in reshaping the narrative around crypto investments.
The fund is a beacon for those seeking secure and transparent avenues to participate in the crypto market.
On this topic, Cohen said, "Our discretionary approach involves strategic investments in a diverse range of liquid tokens, placing a strong emphasis on yield generation through DeFi, and capitalizing on arbitrage opportunities by identifying inefficiencies in this evolving market."
By providing a regulated and reputable platform for institutional investors to enter the digital asset space, INDIGO Fund has contributed significantly to the growth and acceptance of cryptocurrencies.
But what makes them different?
Unlike other funds, which throw money at what's hot right now, INDIGO uses a variety of strategies. They employ everything from buy and hold to yield and airdrop farming, staking, and lending. The goal is to provide a basket of crypto to the investor, optimizing both diversification and returns.
What's Next for Nathanaël?
From his time at Enigma Securities to the launch of INDIGO Fund and SH Digital, Cohen has consistently been at the forefront of the cryptocurrency industry. His goal was and is to navigate the complexities of crypto profitably.
His ventures underscore the lucrative opportunities within the crypto market, even amidst volatility. More than just financial gains, Cohen's work also significantly contributes to adopting and accepting digital assets.
His journey thus inspires those contemplating a similar transition and a model for leveraging the potential of digital assets.
So, what's next for him and the INDIGO team?
"Scaling is the next hurdle for INDIGO. It involves managing growth and maintaining the fund's performance as it attracts more capital."
Cohen and his team aren't taking their foot off the accelerator in 2024. They're preparing for even more growth and bigger returns, and the crypto market shows promising signs of entering its next bull cycle.
