Houlihan Lokey is aggressively scaling its advisory capabilities to capture the intersection of traditional finance and decentralized technology. By appointing Chris McMillan as Managing Director in Charlotte, the global investment bank is specifically targeting the digital assets sector. This move aims to bridge the gap between institutional financial services and blockchain integration, leveraging specialized expertise to support clients navigating complex digital asset ecosystems and evolving capital markets.
Chris McMillan Joins FinTech Group
The appointment of Chris McMillan signals Houlihan Lokey’s intent to deepen its footprint within the digital assets and blockchain landscape. Based in Charlotte, McMillan brings a background in M&A, capital markets, and strategic advisory. He most recently founded 3V Capital Partners, a boutique advisory firm focused on blockchain, digital assets, AI infrastructure, and software. Prior to his entrepreneurial venture, McMillan held significant leadership roles at Credit Suisse, where he served as the Head of Blockchain and Co-Head of Internet Investment Banking. His arrival is intended to bolster the firm's ability to advise clients as traditional financial institutions increasingly incorporate blockchain technology into their existing product suites and service offerings.
Scaling FinTech Advisory Capabilities
Houlihan Lokey is positioning its FinTech Group to manage the high-velocity shifts characteristic of the digital finance sector. The group currently comprises nearly 40 finance professionals covering the global financial technology spectrum. The firm’s strategic momentum is supported by its recent market standing; in 2025, Pitchbook ranked Houlihan Lokey as the No. 1 M&A advisor for all global FinTech transactions. By integrating McMillan’s specialized blockchain relationships with the firm's broader Financial Services banking team, the bank is attempting to create a unified advisory front. This structure is designed to assist clients in navigating strategic opportunities within a sector that the company identifies as one of the most innovative and fast-growing areas of the technology landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Chris McMillan joins Houlihan Lokey as Managing Director in Charlotte to focus on the digital assets sector.
- McMillan previously founded 3V Capital Partners and served as Head of Blockchain at Credit Suisse.
- Houlihan Lokey was ranked by Pitchbook as the No. 1 M&A advisor for all global FinTech transactions in 2025.
FinanceInsyte's Take
In our view, this hire is a calculated move to institutionalize blockchain advisory. By recruiting a former Credit Suisse lead and boutique founder, Houlihan Lokey is not just adding headcount; they are acquiring the specialized bridge necessary to connect legacy financial services with digital asset infrastructure. This suggests the bank anticipates a significant wave of M&A activity as traditional players seek to acquire or integrate blockchain capabilities. It reinforces the trend of top-tier investment banks formalizing their digital asset desks to maintain dominance in the FinTech M&A market.
Questions & Answers
How does this hire impact Houlihan Lokey's digital asset strategy?
The appointment of Chris McMillan allows the FinTech Group to provide specialized advisory services specifically for the digital assets sector, facilitating the integration of blockchain technology into traditional financial services.
What is the professional background of the new Managing Director?
Chris McMillan has experience in M&A and capital markets, having founded 3V Capital Partners and previously serving as Head of Blockchain and Co-Head of Internet Investment Banking at Credit Suisse.
What market position does Houlihan Lokey hold in the FinTech sector?
According to Pitchbook, Houlihan Lokey was ranked as the No. 1 M&A advisor for all global FinTech transactions in 2025.
Where will the new digital assets focus be geographically centered?
The new Managing Director, Chris McMillan, will be based in Charlotte, N.C.
Source: Houlihan Lokey
