As the evening settled in, the stock was seen trading at a dazzling 43% increase, reaching the exuberant figure of $15.25- compelling enough to make one suspect some magical influence at play, or simply the effect of Alfred’s reputation, which his colleagues praise as “unparalleled,” a word that surely makes any investor swoon. Naheta, the guiding star of Bakkt’s helm, welcomed Mr. Alfred with the enthusiasm of a debutante at her first ball, describing him as possessing “a powerful network” and “institutional credibility,” as if any of us needed convincing. Such exalted praise suggests that Mr. Alfred shall be the knight to their digital castle, guiding them through the perilous waters of fintech with the skill of a seasoned diplomat.