Our
Mission

I first met Jan in 2016 when I joined one of his portfolio companies BDSwiss as Head of Back Office. Since then, I have had the privilege of working with him on various fintech projects at the Group level. Jan is an astute businessman, a humble leader, an innovative thinker, and someone who deeply cares about his people and the planet. This is evident in the diverse portfolio of businesses he is involved with. His visionary ideas and passion, particularly for renewable energy and environmental matters, have been truly inspiring. Over the past eight years, I have learned a great deal from Jan. The business cases and lessons we've encountered together have greatly contributed to my professional growth, for which I am eternally grateful. I am proud to be part of this journey, and I look forward to new challenges, opportunities, and adventures ahead.

Mirka Diamanitidis

C.O.O BDSwiss

I first met Jan Malkus for lunch on a hot summer day in 2019. What made an instant impression was not just his financial acumen, but also his ability to identify and support innovative solutions. His portfolio reflects a commitment to projects that not only adapt to change but contribute to shaping a better, more sustainable future. As I got to know Jan better, I could see an entrepreneur and investor that is not content with the status quo; he actively seeks out opportunities that address the pressing issues of our time. His proficiency in new technologies and digitalization positions him as an expert who not only understands the current landscape but anticipates the needs and challenges of tomorrow. In particular, Jan has shown a deep interest in and commitment to projects in the areas of renewable energy, environmental technology, FinTech, and cybersecurity. These sectors, crucial for shaping the future of our global landscape, align with Jan's vision for a sustainable and technologically advanced world. I have had the privilege of working alongside Jan Malkus on the Board of Directors at BDSwiss. In my capacity as a fellow Non-Executive Director, I have had the opportunity to observe Jan's contributions and professionalism firsthand. Jan's ability to think critically and his thorough understanding of the industry have contributed significantly to the formulation and execution of the company's strategic initiatives. One of Jan's notable strengths is his effective communication style. His collaborative approach fosters a positive working environment, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Board. Beyond his professional attributes, Jan is an exemplary family man and a dedicated father of two. His ability to balance the demands of a successful career with the joys (and challenges) of parenthood showcases not only his dedication to his family, but also his capacity to excel in multiple facets of life. Harris Antoniades Former EMEA Head of Financial Crimes Compliance at J.P Morgan Asset Management

Harris Antoniades

Former EMEA Head of Financial Crimes Compliance at J.P Morgan Asset Management

I have been working for Jan within his group of companies since March 2013, and as his personal assistant since August 2014. During this time, I have grown to know the many attributes of Jan – the entrepreneur and investor. There are several qualities from Jan which I particularly admire. He is goal-driven, determined and tenacious. He is not easily deterred from his goals or disheartened in his work. The road to success is not easy and there many stones and hurdles to be overcome. Jan seeks to find solutions to such hurdles in a creative and optimistic way, knowing that he will succeed in the end. He can draw on his vast business experience and knowledge and at the same time learn new and exciting opportunities. He is truly concerned about global warming and the environment. Many of his projects aim at providing solutions, and given his determination, I am convinced that Jan will succeed in these. It makes be proud to be a part of this. He is honest and truthful. Integrity is of great importance to him, in himself as well as in others. In all our dealings, Jan knows that he can expect nothing but the truth from me. This is equally true for me. I trust Jan entirely. He is fair. Throughout his dealings with business partners, colleagues and employees, Jan always strives to find solutions which are acceptable for all. He is considerate and just in his transactions. He is open and sincere. Not given to great shows of praise or thanks, Jan nevertheless expresses his admiration of and gratitude for good work done. His words are genuine and well-chosen. We also share a similar sense of humour which is a bonus to be sure. I consider it an honour to be asked to offer my words of praise and gratitude back to Jan. I have grown personally and professionally over the last 10 years, and I look forward to new opportunities and adventures ahead. Jane Döbler Vastani GmbH

Jane Döbler

Executive Assistant, Vastani GmbH

I met Jan Malkus as one of the co-founders of BDSwiss Holdings Limited in 2016 when I first joined as a financial controller of BDSwiss Holding Limited. As a co-founder in 2017 he took over the role of the interim CEO to restructure BDSwiss Holding Limited during a difficult period of business conversion from binary to forex and a fully restructuring of the organization. Ever since then, we have had a close professional collaboration. After his vital and decisive boost as a CEO, he has remained as a non-executive director/advisory to the Board in BDSwiss and we often meet and discuss business products and improvements. From November 2022 I was blessed and honoured to be given the position of co-CEO of BDSwiss to drive the organization to better days. Throughout my 7 years in BDSwiss I would highlight and describe Jan as a true leader, innovator and a person who always aims to invest in talents. He is one of those entrepreneurs who believes in his people, giving them the opportunity to grow and succeed together.

Gregory Papagregoriou

CEO BDswiss Group

Jan Malkus has been a part of my life for over 35 years now, and the many chapters of our friendship are as diverse as they are special. Our journey together began as sports mates, but over the years it developed into a deep friendship that has shaped my life in many ways. Despite my 22 years abroad, during which our meetings were sporadic, our bond remained as strong as ever. Jan always emphasised that we had "chosen each other", an unshakeable vow of loyalty that deepened our friendship. Jan Malkus is undoubtedly one of the people I trust unconditionally. In addition to his friendship, I have also experienced him as a business partner. His visions are evidence of his incredible foresight, and he always meets challenges with a solution-orientated and objective approach. His credo "There is always a solution" is not just a maxim that he preaches, but one that he actively lives by and through which he inspires those around him. Today, I see Jan not just as a friend, but as a visionary who has found his way to leave a positive footprint in the world. With impressive energy, he recognises opportunities that others do not see and does everything he can to realise them successfully. His projects solve global challenges, be it in the areas of energy, climate or recycling. Jan's exceptional business skills are undoubtedly remarkable, but what makes him truly unique is the combination of his entrepreneurial skills and his human values. Hardly anyone approaches situations as free from prejudice and with such a no-nonsense attitude as he does. This enables Jan to remain objective in every situation and not let emotions get the better of him. Jan Malkus is not only a remarkable businessman, but above all an extraordinary person. I consider myself very fortunate not only to have spent many years as his friend, but also to have been able to look at the world through his eyes from time to time, because you always learn something new from him. I wish Jan that his visions come true and that we can still spend a lot of time together as friends.

Sven Maikranz

Founder & CEO Upstrive Limited

I met Jan Malkus in 1996 in Düsseldorf at a trade fair for software for the property industry. Both his company and mine were exhibitors at this trade fair at the time. We stayed in touch, and with his enthusiastic manner, he was able to convince me after about six months that we should merge the two companies into a joint venture. We sold this company seven years later and founded a new software company for the telecommunications industry together in 2003. We have been partners in this company in Frankfurt for 20 years and together, he as shareholder and advisor and I as managing partner, we have guided it through all the ups and downs. In all these years, which have been quite turbulent, I have always been able to rely 100% on Jan Malkus as a partner; he has always been available with advice and financial support. We were able to develop a partnership that made it possible to build a sustainable, technologically leading, dynamic company that is unrivalled in the field of software for the telecommunications industry and has achieved worldwide recognition. For me as an entrepreneur and friend, Jan Malkus is the partner you need, and he is one of the cornerstones of the entrepreneurial success of our joint projects. I particularly appreciate his loyalty and openness, as well as his ability to never lose sight of the goal even in the most difficult situation and to persistently pursue it.

Arnd Baranowski

CEO Oculeus

Jan Malkus and I met as students in Celle - our hometown - back in 1993. Jan was studying computer science at the Carola-Wilhelmina University of Technology in Braunschweig and was introduced to me by a friend because he was already using the latest computer technology at the time. Shortly afterwards, I was inspired by his idea of developing an innovative industry software solution. Together, we developed the start-up into a market leader and even then, presented software to national and international customers at CeBIT, the world's largest computer trade fair at the time. After years of successful collaboration, we parted ways for a short time until we came together again in 2000. I now work for a subsidiary of Jan Malkus in Frankfurt am Main. In his role as an entrepreneur, I value his visionary and inspiring abilities. He is perceptive, meticulous, assertive, determined and, above all, future orientated. As a master of words, he regularly succeeds in captivating his listeners and inspiring them with his ideas. My friendship with Jan is a support in my life. I value him as a person for many of his virtues, especially for his humanity, kindness, and reliability.

Rolf Kuschewski

Director Oculeus GmbH