Xen Bank

Cryptocurrency has a reputation problem—85% of potential users associate crypto exclusively with volatility and high risk, deterring everyday savers from exploring digital finance. Through research with 20 participants aged 22-45 across Nigeria, I discovered that people wanted the benefits of crypto (borderless transactions, ownership, growth potential) but feared the complexity and instability. I designed Xen Bank as a crypto platform that reframes digital assets as accessible and stable, featuring a brand identity centered around trust and clarity (vibrant turquoise, wave symbolism, approachable typography), a mobile app with simplified onboarding that explains crypto concepts in plain language, a dual-interface design (web dashboard for in-depth analysis, mobile for quick transactions), and features like USD-backed savings accounts, low-risk investment portfolios, and real-time market education. The design process included extensive wireframing and iteration across both platforms, comprehensive component systems, and physical brand extensions including merchandise and marketing materials.

Xen Bank exists to change the narrative around cryptocurrency. The brand identity centers on trust, accessibility, and fluidity—three qualities often missing from crypto platforms. The vibrant turquoise (#4ECDC4) primary color creates immediate differentiation from the dark, tech-heavy aesthetics dominating fintech, signaling approachability while maintaining professional credibility. Paired with deep navy backgrounds (#1A1D29), the palette balances energy with sophistication. The wordmark features clean, rounded letterforms with a signature wave symbol—representing flow, stability despite market fluctuations, and the fluid movement of digital assets across borders. This wave becomes the brand's visual anchor, appearing across all touchpoints from app interfaces to physical merchandise. The overall identity feels modern and trustworthy without the intimidation factor that keeps mainstream users away from crypto.

Crypto has an image problem. Most people associate it exclusively with speculation and risk, not understanding that digital assets can also provide stable savings, investment opportunities, and financial flexibility. The barrier isn't technological—it's perceptual and educational.

Create a crypto platform that reframes digital assets as accessible, low-risk financial tools for everyday users. Through clear branding, educational design, and products that emphasize stability over speculation, make crypto feel as trustworthy as traditional banking while maintaining the benefits that make it revolutionary.

I conducted research with 20 participants aged 22-45 across Nigeria, the UK and US, including both crypto-curious individuals who had never invested and lapsed users who had tried crypto but abandoned it. The research combined in-depth interviews, task-based usability testing with existing crypto platforms, and surveys about financial attitudes and risk tolerance.

• 85% associated cryptocurrency exclusively with high risk and volatility, even when prompted to consider other use cases like international transfers or digital ownership.
• 72% expressed interest in the concept of crypto benefits (borderless transactions, potential growth, financial autonomy) but felt the learning curve was too steep.
• 68% had attempted to use a crypto platform but abandoned it due to confusing interfaces, fear of making irreversible mistakes, or inability to understand what they were actually buying.
• 91% said they would consider crypto if platforms offered "low-risk" or "stable" options clearly labeled and explained, rather than assuming all crypto is speculative.
• 64% (in Nigeria) specifically wanted to save or invest in currencies other than their local currency (especially GBP, USD, EUR) without the fees and complexity of traditional forex.

While Xen Bank crashed after the 2021 Crypto Crash, extensive prototype testing yielded promising validation:

• 78% of participants reported feeling more confident about crypto after using the interface, compared to 23% baseline confidence with their current understanding.
• 88% positive response to the "crypto can also mean low risk" messaging, with participants saying it gave them "permission" to explore crypto without feeling reckless.
• 34% increase in comfort with risk-taking among conservative users when low-risk options were clearly labeled and explained.