Manfred Knof takes over leadership at Valour: New course for crypto investors!

Manfred Knof takes over leadership at Valour: New course for crypto investors!

Dr. Manfred Knof assumed the position of Chairman at Valour, a leading cryptocurrency ETP provider, on June 1, 2025. In addition to his role as Chairman, Knof will also serve as a strategic advisor to Canadian parent company Defi Technologies. THE INVESTMENT reports that Knof will bring his extensive experience in the European banking sector to Valour to increase assets under management through institutional partnerships and expand the investor base.

Defi Technologies, which has been listed on the Nasdaq since May and has reached a valuation of $1.1 billion, offers over 65 exchange-traded products (ETPs) for digital assets, including Bitcoin. These products are listed on major European exchanges such as Xetra, Spotlight and Euronext. Knof's new role will aim to drive Valour's global growth and institutional expansion, deepening relationships with institutional investors. PR Newswire informs that prior to his appointment at Valour, Knof had a distinguished career in banking, including leadership positions at Allianz, Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank.

Important experiences and achievements

Knof, who is 59 years old, led Commerzbank from January 2021 to September 2024, where he successfully restructured the company. His surprising resignation, in which he prematurely terminated his contract, which runs until the end of 2025, led to the appointment of Bettina Orlopp as the new CEO of Commerzbank. This new position at Valor is Knof's first step after his departure from Commerzbank.

With a doctorate in law from the University of Cologne and an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business, Knof brings extensive academic and professional qualifications. In his new role, he will also focus on expanding equity research coverage and fostering partnerships with leading financial institutions to increase assets under management (AUM).

Strategic goals for Valour

Valor aims to offer investors diversified access to the decentralized economy through an integrated business model. One way it does this is by enabling access to digital assets through traditional bank accounts. In his new role, Knof will be instrumental in advancing these strategic goals and further expanding the institutions and investors that support Valour.

The recent developments and Knof's appointment are part of an ongoing shift in the financial world that is increasingly focused on digital assets. With his experience and leadership, Knof is expected to have a significant impact on the future of Valor and Defi Technologies.