Hyla Fund Targets Latin America to Unleash Crypto’s Untapped Potential, Aiming for Global Leadership
Hyla Fund Management, managing $115 million in assets, is set to launch a dedicated crypto fund targeting Latin America. CEO and co-founder Paola Origel views the region as a largely overlooked opportunity for cryptocurrency investments and plans to position Hyla as a bridge between global investors and high-potential projects in the area.
“Latin America is a difficult market for outsiders to navigate,” Origel explained. “Firms like Sequoia and a16z have tried but often struggle with its cultural nuances. Success here demands local expertise and connections, which is where we come in.”
Origel, a Mexico native with 17 years of financial industry experience, has chosen three Mexico City-based fund managers to helm the new initiative. The fund, which launches in January 2025, aims to address the region’s venture capital gap and tap into the burgeoning potential of crypto-driven economic transformation.
Converting Traditional Investors
While the region’s growth prospects are promising, convincing traditional Latin American investors of crypto’s potential remains a challenge. “Many investors are cautious, preferring tangible assets like real estate or commodities,” Origel said. “Our mission is to shift that mindset by showing how blockchain innovations create measurable value.”
Origel believes education is key, as many investors still perceive cryptocurrencies as speculative or overly abstract. Hyla’s role, she added, is to demonstrate the real-world applications and returns achievable through digital assets.
Building a Crypto Fund of Funds
Hyla’s “fund of funds” structure enables it to invest across multiple crypto hedge funds, offering diversification for investors while simplifying entry into the complex digital asset space. Origel noted, “The true value we provide is access to a network of global fund managers who are each specialists in areas like DeFi, blockchain infrastructure, or emerging technologies.”
Hyla maintains close relationships with fund managers and founders within its portfolio, creating opportunities for synergy and unique insights into the crypto ecosystem. Origel likened the model to traditional finance practices but emphasized its enhanced relevance in crypto, where expertise and connections are crucial to navigating the fast-changing market.
Unlocking Latin America’s Economic Potential
Origel highlighted Latin America’s unique position to benefit from blockchain technology. She cited remittances as a key use case, where blockchain could cut fees and streamline transfers for millions of families reliant on cross-border payments.
The region’s large unbanked population is another area ripe for disruption. Mobile solutions powered by blockchain could bring financial services to underserved communities, boosting inclusion and economic growth.
“There’s also incredible entrepreneurial energy in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina,” Origel said. “With better access to venture capital, these innovators can achieve global impact.”
Preparing for the Next Crypto Unicorns
While the fund remains open to all crypto sectors, Origel emphasized the importance of quality over geography. “We’re not tied to specific jurisdictions; it’s about the strength of the project and the team behind it,” she said. “Our goal is to identify and back the next wave of unicorns, those capable of reshaping industries and transcending borders.”
With $30 million allocated for its Latin American initiative, Hyla’s ambitions extend far beyond regional investments. “We want to be the Goldman Sachs of digital assets,” Origel stated. By bridging traditional and crypto markets, Hyla hopes to cement its place as a leader in the evolving digital economy.
