US bank Capital One is hiring WilmerHale counsel Elijah Alper to take on a role as a fintech and blockchain specialist.
A veteran of almost seven years at WilmerHale, Alper is a well-known figure in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space. He has also advised clients at the firm on the technology.
The appointment comes at a time when major banks are devoting greater resources to exploring opportunities in the bitcoin and blockchain space. Earlier this week a number of major banks began beta testing blockchain-based, peer-to-peer foreign exchange technology with Cobalt DL.
To date Capital One has been less active than many other banks. The only real example of it engaging with the space is the participation of its venture arm in blockchain startup Chain’s $30m round in September.
Brining Alper on board could be a sign of change at the bank.
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