Ethereum News Today: Joseph Chalom Joins SharpLink as Co-CEO to Lead Ethereum Treasury Strategy Signaling Institutional Crypto Shift

Joseph Chalom, former BlackRock digital assets executive, has joined SharpLink Gaming as Co-CEO to spearhead the company’s Ethereum-focused treasury strategy, signaling a significant institutional pivot toward cryptocurrency integration. His appointment, effective July 24, 2025, underscores SharpLink’s commitment to leveraging Ethereum (ETH) as a core asset within its financial infrastructure. Chalom previously oversaw BlackRock’s digital asset initiatives, including partnerships with Anchorage Digital Bank, BNY Mellon, Circle, and Coinbase, and played a pivotal role in launching high-growth ETFs such as IBIT and ETHA [1]. His expertise in institutional digital asset partnerships and product innovation is expected to accelerate SharpLink’s Ethereum ecosystem integration.

SharpLink, which already holds over 360,000 ETH—valued at approximately $1.3 billion—has positioned itself as the largest public entity by ETH holdings [2]. Recent financial maneuvers, including a $145 million transfer in anticipation of a major Ethereum purchase, further highlight the company’s strategic shift to prioritize crypto assets [3]. This move aligns with Chalom’s vision of establishing “the most secure treasury in Ethereum” and expanding altcoin adoption in global finance [4]. His background in bridging traditional finance and blockchain, including initiatives like BUIDL, positions him to drive institutional adoption in the gaming sector.

The appointment reflects broader trends in institutional engagement with crypto markets. Ethereum, currently trading at $3,859.89 with a market cap of $465.93 billion and dominance of 11.83% (per CoinMarketCap), has shown a 3.63% price increase over 24 hours and a 60.75% rise over 30 days [5]. Chalom’s focus on Ethereum’s native yields and compliant DeFi pathways could influence trading volumes, which recently reached $27.17 billion (up 7.35%). Joseph Lubin, Chairman of SharpLink and co-founder of Ethereum, emphasized that Chalom’s decision to join the company validates its ETH treasury strategy, stating, “Few executives have had the kind of impact Joseph has had in unlocking institutional adoption of digital assets” [6].

The strategic alignment between SharpLink and Ethereum extends beyond financial metrics. Chalom’s initiatives at BlackRock, including launching major ETPs, have set precedents for institutional crypto activity [7]. His role at SharpLink may also catalyze regulatory interest in DeFi, as historical trends suggest such strategic moves often precede market innovations and regulatory adaptations. However, the company’s success will hinge on navigating regulatory uncertainties and market volatility, which remain critical risks for crypto-dependent strategies.

The convergence of fintech and gaming is another focal point. By integrating Ethereum into its operations, SharpLink aims to enhance digital engagement solutions and redefine how blockchain-based assets interact with gaming ecosystems. Chalom’s emphasis on security and institutional partnerships could address historical skepticism in the gaming sector toward crypto adoption. This strategy mirrors broader industry efforts to harness blockchain’s potential in asset management and cross-industry collaboration.

Sources:

[1] [SharpLink Welcomes BlackRock Digital Assets Pioneer](https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1981535/0001641172****0947/ex99-1.htm)

[2] [SharpLink Gaming Transfers $145M Ahead of Massive Ethereum Purchase](https://www.xt.com/en/blog/post/sharplink-gaming-transfers-145m-ahead-of-massive-ethereum-purchase)

[3] [SharpLink Gaming's Strategic Reinvention: A New Era with Joseph Chalom](https://www.ainvest.com/news/sharplink-gaming-strategic-reinvention-era-joseph-chalom-ceo-2507/)

[4] [Joseph Chalom Appointed Co-CEO of Sharplink](https://phemex.com/news/article/joseph-chalom-appointed-coceo-of-sharplink_13766)

[5] [Ethereum (ETH), daily chart, CoinMarketCap](https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/688670223b9f6678f00e4dc6/)

[6] [BlackRock's Crypto Visionary Joseph Chalom Joins SharpLink](https://etherworld.co/2025/07/26/blackrocks-crypto-visionary-joseph-chalom-joins-sharplink-as-co-ceo/)

[7] [Joseph Chalom Joins Sharplink as Co-CEO](https://www.kucoin.com/news/flash/joseph-chalom-joins-sharplink-as-co-ceo)