3iQ Bolsters Tech Leadership with Chris Desjardins as CTO, Signaling Expansion in Digital Asset Innovation

Toronto, Canada – January 28th, 2026 – 3iQ, a prominent digital asset investment fund manager, has announced the appointment of Chris Desjardins as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). The move signals a strategic emphasis on technological advancement and infrastructure development within the firm, reflecting the rapidly evolving landscape of the cryptocurrency market. This appointment is expected to strengthen 3iQ’s position in the competitive arena of institutional-grade digital asset investment solutions.

Desjardins brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously held senior technology positions in both the traditional finance and blockchain sectors. His background suggests a deep understanding of the technical intricacies involved in secure and scalable digital asset management, a critical component for attracting and retaining institutional investors. The appointment comes at a time when the demand for sophisticated, regulated crypto investment products is surging, particularly within North America. This region, including both the United States and Canada, has witnessed a considerable increase in institutional participation in the ETH and PASC markets, necessitating robust technological capabilities to manage the associated complexities.

The CTO’s responsibilities at 3iQ will likely encompass oversight of the firm's technological infrastructure, including its security protocols, trading platforms, and data analytics capabilities. This includes ensuring the seamless operation of existing investment products, such as its Bitcoin Fund, and also the development and implementation of new products and services. The ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as advanced data analytics for market analysis and algorithmic trading strategies, will be paramount. Further, Desjardins's expertise in security will be vital in safeguarding client assets and protecting against cyber threats, a key concern for institutional investors.

The digital asset industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and protocols emerging regularly. The ability to quickly adapt to these changes is crucial for success. In this context, Desjardins's role will likely involve evaluating and integrating new technologies, such as advancements in blockchain scalability solutions and decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, that could improve the efficiency and performance of 3iQ’s investment offerings. The strategic importance of innovation is further underscored by the increasing sophistication of institutional investors, who are looking for more complex and diverse investment options. Furthermore, the industry is seeing a rise in the demand for STND compliant investment solutions.