Edinburgh-based crypto startup Zumo has appointed two advisors to help it ‘tap into’ Web 3.0.

The company is taking advantage of industry advice to launch new products and services, including secure access to NFT marketplaces and the metaverse.

James Chadwick has been hired as strategic advisor to the Zumo board. He has previously held roles as CEO in Singapore for GroupM, as well as a period at Facebook between 2012 and 2019 and is now a founding member of Proof Collective, a group of 1,000 NFT collectors and artists.

Commenting on his appointment, Chadwick said: “People want security and low costs, but most of all they want it to be easy and fun when they buy, sell, store, send and spend digital currencies.

“For the first time in history, managing money is about to become enjoyable, and Zumo really gets this.

“I’m looking forward to helping the team develop its product roadmap and explore new areas, such as the NFTs that are shaping the ownership economy.”

Youth culture commentator Jeff Carvalho will work alongside Chadwick to advise Zumo on brand placement within an evolving tech framework, with a focus on storytelling, strategy, and product development.

Carvalho previously co-founded streetwear and lifestyle magazine Highsnobiety and new Web 3.0 tech project Burrata, as well as holding more than 20 years’ experience as a speaker and commentator.

Carvalho said of his appointment: “I’m delighted to work with Zumo as it explores its next steps in this incredibly exciting space.

“To interact with and reap the true reward of all the technology Web 3.0 is going to bring, we’re all going to need a wallet, a product and underpinning infrastructure that works instantly and seamlessly.

“That’s why I’m excited to see what Zumo is doing to provide users, whoever they might be, with accessible, easy-to-use tech that doesn’t get in the way and delivers on the promise to bring the benefits of blockchain to everyone, everywhere.”

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Crypto startup Zumo has seen a boost over the last few years as its customer base has grown 25% month-on-month since its crypto platform launched in August 2020.

The Scottish startup also had a major win in December last year after receiving approval to be added to the Financial Conduct Authority’s list of registered cryptoasset companies.

Previous research from CyberCrew found that last year 9.8 million Brits owned cryptocurrency, highlighting crypto’s move towards the mainstream.

Nick Jones, Co-Founder and CEO at Zumo, added: “We’re passionate about creating smart money solutions for everyone, and therefore thrilled to have James and Jeff on board to explore the possibilities on offer in Web 3.0.

“As crypto, DeFi and NFTs increasingly capture hearts and minds, they will help us to provide the products that will enable people crying out for a fairer economy to regain control over their financial futures.”

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