In a significant move within the cryptocurrency landscape, Marco Santori, the former chief legal officer at Kraken, has joined Pantera Capital as a general partner on the investment team. Santori’s transition, which follows his departure from Kraken in January 2025, marks a strategic shift aimed at expanding Pantera’s crypto portfolio while providing essential guidance to portfolio companies regarding regulatory compliance and strategic growth.
According to a recent blog post from Pantera, Santori’s expertise will be invaluable in navigating the complex regulatory environment that defines the crypto industry. In addition to his role at Pantera, Santori is set to continue his engagement with policymakers, advocating for clear, innovation-friendly regulations both in the United States and globally. This alignment with regulatory efforts underscores the increasing importance of compliance in the rapidly evolving financial landscape.
The advancement of clear crypto regulations in the U.S. has emerged as a critical area of focus for investment firms. As these firms prepare themselves for the future, having seasoned professionals like Santori on board could prove advantageous. Known for his pivotal contribution to the development of the “SAFT” (Simple Agreement for Future Tokens) framework, which has become a cornerstone of compliant token sales, Santori’s insights are expected to steer Pantera’s portfolio companies toward success.
In response to his new role, Santori expressed enthusiasm for this next chapter, stating, “I’m joining Pantera at a pivotal moment for crypto on the world stage. After over a decade of work, governments have finally embraced the benefits of blockchain technology. The timing couldn’t be better, and Pantera couldn’t be better positioned to capitalize on it.”
As the landscape of cryptocurrency evolves, Santori’s appointment at Pantera Capital exemplifies the growing interplay between regulatory frameworks and innovation within the sector. The firm’s leadership aims to leverage this momentum as it seeks to fortify its presence and influence in the global crypto market.
