Datavault AI Inc. (Nasdaq: DVLT) has appointed Christopher R. Hardt as an independent director to its board, effective October 3, 2026, according to a press release from the company.

Hardt was designated by NYIAX, Inc. in connection with Datavault AI's acquisition of NYIAX, which was completed in August 2026. He previously served on NYIAX's board of directors. He will also serve on Datavault AI's Audit Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

Hardt's career includes senior positions at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he held roles across the United States, Europe and Asia, including as a partner in PwC's National Office in New York leading Consumer Markets SEC Services, and as a partner in PwC's Japanese member firm in Tokyo. He also served as chief financial officer of Abri Capital and held a board position at Collective Audience.

Nathaniel Bradley, chief executive officer of Datavault AI, said in the statement: "His more than 30 years of global financial leadership and deep understanding of public-company governance will be an invaluable addition to our Audit and Corporate Governance Committees."

Hardt holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Furman University and is a Certified Public Accountant. He has completed executive education programs at INSEAD, IMD and Duke University.

The August 2026 NYIAX acquisition added patented exchange technology and contract management capabilities to Datavault AI's platform. The company is headquartered in Philadelphia.