Bitstamp, the oldest cryptocurrency exchange, plans to implement regulated crypto derivatives trading in Europe, according to two people with knowledge of the matter.
With its long-standing focus on compliance, Bitstamp is part of a select group of crypto trading platforms that holds a Markets in Financial Instruments (MiFID) license, a pan-European regulatory framework for trading securities and derivatives, which was modified in 2022 to cover cryptoassets.
“With its MiFID license in Europe, Bitstamp plans to launch a fully regulated perpetual swap offering,” one of the people said.
The arrival of regulatory clarity in Europe, when it comes to cryptocurrencies and tokens, has prompted the planned introduction of crypto derivatives trading by companies holding MiFID II licenses, such as D2X, backed by Point72 Ventures, and Backpack Exchange, which is in the process of acquiring the remains of FTX EU and its licenses.
The vast majority of crypto derivatives volume is located abroad and the goal of these new entrants is to divert market dominance from companies like Deribit, a centralized exchange based in Panama.
In June last year, it was announced that fintech giant Robinhood would acquire Bitstamp, whose future looks bright, not only in Europe but also in the US, where it holds multiple state licenses, including the coveted BitLicense of the state of New York.
Bitstamp declined to comment because the plans are not yet public.
