Jack Mallers Steps Down as CEO of Bitcoin Treasury Firm XXI

Jack Mallers, founder of Bitcoin payments app Strike, stepped down as CEO of NYSE-listed Twenty One Capital (XXI) on July 20, with Raphael Zagury taking over as the new leader. The Tether-backed firm, holding over 43,500 BTC and ranking third among public companies, now prioritizes cash flow from operations, disciplined capital allocation like Berkshire Hathaway, and Bitcoin-native services. Mallers forfeited unvested options amid board disagreements and reaffirmed his commitment to Strike, which will stay independent; XXI shares closed at $4.80, down over 90% from peaks amid a crypto pullback. Reactions divided, with critics noting the stock wipeout and supporters like Anthony Pompliano seeing potential upside for both companies.