Du Jun, born in 1986 in Kaixian County, Chongqing, is a prominent figure in China's blockchain and cryptocurrency space. As the founder of Jinse Finance, founding partner of Node Capital, and co-founder of BiKi and Huobi Global, Du has played a pivotal role in shaping China's digital asset ecosystem.
Early Career and Entrepreneurial Journey
Du Jun's career trajectory reflects the rapid evolution of China's internet and blockchain industries:
- 2005-2007: Joined Comsenz, the parent company of Discuz!, focusing on vertical community operations
- 2013: Co-founded Huobi Global (originally Huobi Pro) and served as CMO
- 2016: Co-founded financial services platform CaiMao Network (Stock Code: 430361)
- 2017: Established Jinse Finance, a leading blockchain media platform
- 2018: Co-founded cryptocurrency exchange BiKi as联席CEO
His early exposure to domain trading and bitcoin investment laid the foundation for later ventures in cryptocurrency exchanges and blockchain media.
Key Business Ventures
Huobi Global
As one of China's earliest cryptocurrency exchanges, Huobi pioneered zero-fee trading under Du's marketing leadership. Though no longer actively managing operations, Du maintains:
- 4.22% stake in Beijing Huobi Tianxia Network Technology
- Independent director position at Huobi China entities
Jinse Finance
This blockchain media platform became influential during China's 2017-2018 ICO boom. Strategic relationships with Huobi and Node Capital enable cross-platform content distribution.
Node Capital
Founded in 2015, this investment fund specializes in blockchain projects. Its portfolio includes:
- Strategic investments in Huobi ecosystem
- Early-stage blockchain startups
- Digital asset management services
Industry Influence and Controversies
Du's integrated ecosystem raises questions about:
- Conflict of Interest: Simultaneous control of media (Jinse), exchange (Huobi), and investment fund (Node)
- Market Manipulation: Potential influence over ICO pricing and token listings
- Regulatory Arbitrage: Complex cross-border corporate structure
Despite these concerns, his model demonstrates effective "blockchain ecosystem" strategy—controlling multiple touchpoints in the cryptocurrency value chain.
Business Philosophy
Du's approach combines:
- First-mover advantage in emerging tech sectors
- Vertical integration across media, finance, and trading
- Community-driven growth leveraging early Discuz! experience
FAQ
Q: How did Du Jun first get involved in cryptocurrency?
A: Through domain trading and early bitcoin investments around 2013, prior to co-founding Huobi.
Q: What's the relationship between Huobi and Jinse Finance?
A: Huobi holds shares in Jinse's operating company, while Node Capital invests in both entities.
Q: Why is Du Jun's ecosystem considered controversial?
A: The interconnected control of media, exchange, and investment creates potential conflicts in token listing and coverage.
Q: What makes Node Capital's investment strategy unique?
A: It specializes in blockchain projects using hybrid crypto/fiat investments, often taking equity positions in exchange-related businesses.