Houlihan Lokey Bolsters Digital Assets Expertise with Appointment of Chris McMillan as Managing Director

Quick Summary

Houlihan Lokey has appointed Chris McMillan as Managing Director to lead the Houlihan Lokey digital assets strategy within its FinTech Group. Based in Charlotte, McMillan brings extensive experience from 3V Capital and Credit Suisse to drive M&A and strategic advisory for blockchain and AI infrastructure companies.

How does Chris McMillan strengthen Houlihan Lokey’s digital assets strategy?

Chris McMillan joins Houlihan Lokey with a mandate to bridge the gap between traditional financial services and the emerging blockchain ecosystem. By integrating McMillan’s expertise, the firm is significantly expanding the Houlihan Lokey digital assets footprint across M&A and strategic advisory. His background as the former Head of Blockchain at Credit Suisse provides the deep industry expertise required to navigate complex digital asset transactions. This appointment ensures that clients have access to senior-level financial professionals who understand the nuances of AI infrastructure, software, and decentralized technologies. The move is a direct response to traditional financial firms increasingly incorporating blockchain technology into their core product offerings and services.

What experience does Chris McMillan bring to the FinTech Group?

Strategic advisory services are at the core of McMillan's professional background, having recently founded 3V Capital Partners. His career is defined by wealth of experience in capital markets and M&A, specifically targeting high-growth technology sectors. Key highlights of his career include:

• Serving as Head of Blockchain and Co-Head of Internet Investment Banking at Credit Suisse.
• Founding 3V Capital to advise on blockchain and AI infrastructure.
• Managing complex strategic advisory services for global technology companies.

McMillan’s ability to navigate strategic opportunities within the digital assets sector will be a primary asset for Houlihan Lokey’s global platform, which currently features nearly 40 professionals dedicated to the fintech vertical.

Why is Houlihan Lokey prioritizing blockchain and digital assets now?

Fintech innovation cycles are accelerating, and Houlihan Lokey is positioning itself to remain the No. 1 M&A advisor for global fintech transactions, a title it earned in the 2025 Pitchbook rankings. The firm recognizes that digital assets sector growth is no longer a niche trend but a pervasive element of the broader technology landscape. By hiring dedicated leadership, Houlihan Lokey can think ahead of the market to support clients through rapid industry changes. The integration of blockchain technology products into mainstream finance requires a specialized advisor who can pair end-market expertise with traditional investment banking rigor. This commitment underscores the firm's belief that the future of financial technology is inextricably linked to digital asset infrastructure.

“Chris brings a deep understanding of the digital assets ecosystem and a proven strategic advisory track record within this complex sector,” said Alec Ellison, Global Head of Houlihan Lokey’s FinTech Group. “His unique expertise and extensive relationships across the blockchain landscape will be invaluable as we continue to expand our FinTech capabilities and partner with our colleagues on the Financial Services banking team as traditional financial services firms incorporate blockchain technology into their products and services. We are delighted to welcome him to the team.”

“I am excited to join Houlihan Lokey’s highly respected FinTech Group,” commented Mr. McMillan. “The firm’s commitment to providing insightful, thoughtful advice and its exceptional global platform offer the perfect environment to help clients navigate strategic opportunities within the digital assets sector. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to drive continued growth and success for our clients.”

FF NEWS TAKE:

This move signals that the Houlihan Lokey digital assets focus is a long-term play to capture market share as traditional finance converges with blockchain. By securing a veteran like McMillan, Houlihan Lokey isn't just adding headcount; they are buying institutional knowledge in a sector that many banks still struggle to quantify. Ranking as the top M&A advisor in 2025 proves their momentum, and this hire ensures they remain the dominant force in fintech consolidation.