Relai, a Swiss Bitcoin startup, has entered into a partnership with Sygnum Bank to launch a new service that offers Bitcoin-backed loans. This initiative allows high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to access liquidity without needing to sell their Bitcoin holdings. According to a press release, this service is a first for Switzerland and combines Relai’s user-friendly investment platform with Sygnum’s regulated banking capabilities.
Julian Liniger, CEO and Co-Founder of Relai, remarked on the significance of this partnership, stating, "At Relai, we’re building the future of Bitcoin-focused financial services. This partnership with Sygnum Bank is a huge milestone for us as a Startup. Bitcoin-backed loans are a game-changer for our wealthy clients, providing them with access to cash without the need to sell their Bitcoin. We are seeing a strong demand for that, especially from high-net-worth individuals and SMEs."
To be eligible for these loans, clients must have portfolios exceeding 100,000 CHF (or EUR), allowing them to secure significant liquidity while retaining their Bitcoin for long-term investment. Relai plans to extend its reach across Europe and is seeking a Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) license to accommodate a growing user base.
Benedikt Koedel, CFA at Sygnum Bank, stated, "We’re proud to partner with Relai, a company that shares our commitment to simplicity, transparency, and Bitcoin-first innovation. This collaboration empowers private investors to unlock liquidity without compromising their long-term vision."
As Bitcoin adoption continues to increase, these loans may serve as an essential link between the cryptocurrency and traditional financial markets in Europe.
Julian Liniger, CEO and Co-Founder of Relai, remarked on the significance of this partnership, stating, "At Relai, we’re building the future of Bitcoin-focused financial services. This partnership with Sygnum Bank is a huge milestone for us as a Startup. Bitcoin-backed loans are a game-changer for our wealthy clients, providing them with access to cash without the need to sell their Bitcoin. We are seeing a strong demand for that, especially from high-net-worth individuals and SMEs."
To be eligible for these loans, clients must have portfolios exceeding 100,000 CHF (or EUR), allowing them to secure significant liquidity while retaining their Bitcoin for long-term investment. Relai plans to extend its reach across Europe and is seeking a Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) license to accommodate a growing user base.
Benedikt Koedel, CFA at Sygnum Bank, stated, "We’re proud to partner with Relai, a company that shares our commitment to simplicity, transparency, and Bitcoin-first innovation. This collaboration empowers private investors to unlock liquidity without compromising their long-term vision."
As Bitcoin adoption continues to increase, these loans may serve as an essential link between the cryptocurrency and traditional financial markets in Europe.
