Three cryptocurrency companies, two from South Africa and one from Austria, have merged to create a new alternative investment platform called Altify, with the goal of democratising alternative assets by making them more accessible to ordinary investors.
Johannesburg-based crypto exchange Revix, Cape Town’s digital asset manager Bitfund, and an unnamed Austrian digital asset firm are joining forces for the new London-based platform. Revix founder Sean Sanders has been named CEO of Altify.
The merger has the backing of major shareholders like South African venture capital firms Sabvest and CVVC. International crypto investors Founders Factory, Emurgo, and Calm/Storm Ventures also support the deal.
According to the statement, Altify will open up alternative assets like private credit, venture capital, real estate, crypto assets, and collectibles to retail investors. Typically, only institutions and ultra-high net worth individuals can access these assets, which have outperformed public markets.
By tapping into decentralized finance and tokenized assets, Altify aims to reduce barriers like high investment minimums, illiquidity, and high fees. The platform leverages its founders’ experience in crypto and digital asset management.
Furthermore, Sanders plans to market Altify’s alternative investment capabilities to European and Middle Eastern investors beyond South Africa. He also seeks to shift the perception that these assets are only meant for older investors.
