Octaura Appoints J.P. Morgan Veteran as CFO, Signaling Push for Transparency in Loan Markets

NEW YORK – November 3, 2025 – Octaura, the electronic trading platform for syndicated loans and CLOs, is doubling down on its mission to modernize traditionally opaque financial markets with the appointment of Cristina Kim as Chief Financial Officer. The move, announced today, comes on the heels of a $46.5 million funding round and signifies a strategic shift toward scaling operations and driving innovation in the $1.7 trillion CLO market.

Kim joins Octaura from J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., where she spent over two decades leading strategic investments in fintech and digital transformation initiatives. Industry observers say her appointment is a clear indication that Octaura is not just building a platform, but positioning itself as a key player in reshaping how these complex financial instruments are traded.

“This is a pivotal moment for Octaura,” said a source familiar with the company’s strategy. “Bringing in someone with Cristina’s experience – navigating the complexities of financial technology and investment – will be critical as they expand their reach and challenge the status quo.”

A Legacy of Opacity, A Future of Transparency

For years, the syndicated loan and CLO markets have been characterized by manual processes, limited transparency, and fragmented information. Trading has often relied on phone calls and relationship-driven networks, creating inefficiencies and potentially hindering price discovery. Octaura, founded in 2022, aims to rectify this by providing an electronic trading platform that offers real-time data, automated workflows, and increased liquidity.

“The lack of transparency in these markets is a systemic issue,” explained a market analyst. “It increases risk for investors and can contribute to market instability. Platforms like Octaura are essential in bringing these markets into the 21st century.”

Octaura’s platform allows market participants to trade loans and CLOs electronically, streamlining the process and reducing operational friction. The platform’s data analytics capabilities also provide insights into pricing and market trends, empowering investors to make more informed decisions.

Kim’s Role: Driving Growth and Financial Strategy

Kim’s experience at J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. is particularly relevant to Octaura’s ambitions. She has a proven track record of identifying and investing in innovative fintech companies, and her deep understanding of financial markets will be crucial as Octaura expands its platform and user base.

“Cristina’s expertise in strategic investments will be instrumental in guiding our financial strategy and market expansion,” said Brian Bejile, CEO of Octaura, in a press statement.

Another key aspect of the leadership change is the separation of the CFO and COO roles. Jason Cohen, who previously held both positions, will now focus solely on operational and strategic initiatives. This allows for a clearer delineation of responsibilities and enables both leaders to focus on their respective areas of expertise.

“The decision to separate the CFO and COO roles is a sign of maturity,” said a source familiar with the organizational structure. “It indicates that Octaura is building a more robust and scalable operational framework.”

Challenges and Opportunities in the CLO Market

The CLO market, in particular, has faced increased scrutiny in recent years due to concerns about complexity and risk. However, it remains a vital source of financing for companies of all sizes. Octaura’s platform aims to address some of the key challenges in the CLO market by providing greater transparency and liquidity.

“The CLO market is incredibly complex, and it’s often difficult for investors to understand the underlying risks,” explained a market analyst. “Platforms like Octaura can help to demystify the market and make it more accessible.”

The company's $46.5 million funding round will be used to further develop its platform, expand its market reach, and attract top talent. Industry observers expect that Octaura will face competition from established players in the financial technology space, but its focus on transparency and innovation positions it well for success.

“Octaura is not just building a trading platform,” said a source familiar with the company’s strategy. “They are building a more efficient, transparent, and accessible financial ecosystem. And that is something that the market desperately needs.”

The appointment of Cristina Kim as CFO represents a significant step forward in that mission. With her experience and leadership, Octaura is poised to become a leading force in the modernization of the syndicated loan and CLO markets.