Mumbai: CIFDAQ Group, an innovator in cryptocurrency, Web 3.0, and blockchain technology, has announced the appointment of two senior industry leaders to its executive team. Ankur Sharma has joined as Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Smrita Singh Chandra has been named Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer (CBCO). These high-profile appointments mark a significant step in CIFDAQ’s strategic expansion and brand evolution, especially as it strengthens its presence in the Indian market.
Commenting on the leadership additions, Himanshu Maradiya, Founder & Chairman, CIFDAQ Group, said, “The cryptocurrency industry is growing at an unprecedented pace, projected to attain a valuation of USD $5 billion globally by 2030. These appointments are part of our strategy to build a future-ready leadership team capable of navigating rapid change, scaling operations, and creating meaningful impact. Ankur will be instrumental in refining our financial strategy, strengthening investor relations, and enabling sustainable growth. Smrita’s strategic storytelling expertise will be key to building trust and strengthening engagement across stakeholders—from consumers and regulators to partners worldwide. Together, they will help us fortify our foundation, drive innovation, and elevate our brand as we continue to lead in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space. We’re excited to welcome them aboard at this transformative moment.”
Ankur Sharma, a seasoned finance leader with over 20 years of experience in strategic financial management, will be responsible for driving CIFDAQ’s global financial strategy, capital optimization, and investor engagement. He previously served as Group CFO at Imagine Marketing Ltd. (boAt), where he played a key role in nearly tripling omni-channel revenues and stabilizing operations. Ankur has also held senior roles at Cravatex Brands (FILA, VANS, Proline), AGS Group, and Reliance Capital.
“CIFDAQ Group is at the cutting edge of blockchain and digital finance, and I’m thrilled to be given the opportunity to support its acceleration towards the next chapter. With a strong foundation in place, my focus will be on refining our financial strategy to unlock new growth opportunities, streamline operations, and ensure that we’re well positioned to deliver long-term value to both, our users and investors,” said Ankur Sharma, Group CFO, CIFDAQ Group.
Smrita Singh Chandra, who joins as Group CBCO, will lead CIFDAQ’s brand transformation and communications strategy with a focus on stakeholder trust, regulatory alignment, and public engagement. With nearly two decades of experience, Smrita previously served as VP – Policy Communications at Dream Sports, where she played a key role in shaping public narrative and driving policy impact for Dream11. Her earlier stints include leadership roles at FedEx, KOOH Sports, and Jet Airways.
“Joining CIFDAQ at this pivotal moment is an exciting opportunity and a challenge,” said Smrita Singh Chandra, Group CBCO, CIFDAQ Group. “As we redefine the future of blockchain and financial technology, my focus is on amplifying our brand voice and reinforcing our values—transparency, trust, compliance, and innovation—to connect meaningfully with both Indian and global communities.”
