John D’Agostino

John D’Agostino is a globally recognized leader in financial market development, strategic advisory, and digital assets, with extensive experience across exchanges, asset management, and fintech. After leading the initiative to establish the first Middle East energy derivatives exchange in collaboration with the Dubai Government, a landmark project chronicled in the New York Times best-selling books ‘Rigged’ by Ben Mezrich and ‘The Start-Up Of You’ by Reid Hoffman, John D’Agostino demonstrated his expertise in financial market development. As Vice President and Head of Strategy at the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), D’Agostino played a crucial role in transitioning the trading floor to electronic trading, spearheading the development of core systems for co-location, quant, and High-Frequency Trading (HFT) volumes. Following his impactful tenure at NYMEX, D’Agostino advanced his career with leadership roles including Director of Corporate Development at Second Market.

He also leads Advisory and Strategic Partnerships for Coinbase Institutional, contributing to the advancement of institutional participation in digital assets. Since 2018, D’Agostino has been a valued member of the board of Surf Air, an aviation and air charter company. He maintains his role as Co-Chair of AIMA’s Digital Assets Working Group, driving thought leadership and industry standards in this evolving sector.