Trezor CEO Shares Insights from Prague Headquarters
At Trezor’s Prague headquarters, CEO Matěj Žák spoke with The Crypto Times founder Hardik Katariya. The discussion followed the launch of the new Trezor Safe 7 hardware wallet. They covered topics beyond the product, including privacy, philosophy, and the company’s history.
From Musician to Crypto Leader
Before joining Trezor, Žák was a dedicated guitarist. He practiced eight hours daily, developing discipline and precision. This work ethic later influenced his approach to technology and leadership.
“If I spent enough time working hard on something, I would ultimately get better at it,” Žák said.
Transparency Born from a Security Challenge
Trezor’s commitment to open source and transparency began after discovering a security flaw in a closed-source chip used by competitors. Due to a non-disclosure agreement, Trezor could not warn users publicly.
Žák explained, “We realized security by obscurity is not the way to go. We need to go the transparent way.”
This led to Tropic Square, Trezor’s open-source chip project, allowing community audits and improvements.
Trezor Safe 7 Launch and Market Response
The Trezor Safe 7 hardware wallet reflects the company’s values: practical, auditable, and designed for serious self-custody users. The wallet sold quickly even before marketing efforts began.
Žák said, “The market speaks for itself. Customers will tell whether this is a good product or not.”
Strict Data Privacy Practices
Trezor deletes customer data after about 90 days. This policy minimizes stored information and enhances privacy.
Žák stated, “The safest data is the one you don’t have.”
Commitment to User Freedom Amid Regulation
As regulators focus on crypto, Trezor remains cautious but prepared. Žák emphasized that protecting user access is “non-negotiable” and the company would resist any demands to compromise it.
Focus on Quality Over Price
The Safe 7 is not the cheapest wallet but offers reliable security. Žák accepts it may not suit everyone but believes it is reasonably priced for its quality.
“The right people will buy it. The market will speak,” he said.
Prague as a Crypto Hub
Trezor started in Prague over ten years ago. The city has grown into a key center for crypto development. Trezor supports local events, education, and open-source projects to promote Bitcoin in Europe.
Bitcoin’s Future and Self-Custody
Žák avoids price predictions but suggested Bitcoin could be valued between $200,000 and $300,000 in the future. He stressed that understanding Bitcoin is more important than its price.
He urged users to research Bitcoin and move to self-custody using hardware wallets. “It doesn’t even have to be us, but it should be secure,” he said.
Trezor’s Enduring Philosophy
After more than a decade, Trezor remains committed to openness and auditability. The company’s approach to security and privacy stems from the early experience with the chip flaw they could not disclose.
Žák concluded, “That was the day we decided never to rely on silence again.”
