According to Bloomberg, Robinhood is reportedly planning to expand into the crypto futures market by leveraging its upcoming acquisition of Bitstamp. The company aims to introduce CME-based Bitcoin and Ether futures in the U.S. and use Bitstamp’s licenses to offer perpetual futures for Bitcoin and other tokens in Europe.
In May, centralized exchanges saw spot trading volumes of $1.57 trillion, while derivatives volume soared to $3.69 trillion. With major U.S. crypto exchange Coinbase already offering derivatives, Robinhood’s entry into the futures market could significantly enhance its competitive stance.
Despite receiving a Wells notice from the SEC regarding its crypto operations earlier this year, Robinhood is undeterred in its crypto expansion. The firm reported a 224% increase in crypto trading in the first quarter of 2024.
Robinhood’s acquisition of Bitstamp for $200 million, expected to finalize in the first half of 2025, will mark its entry into the institutional crypto market. Bitstamp, known as the oldest running crypto exchange, holds over 50 licenses and registrations globally. Robinhood’s March acquisition of Marex FCM, which is licensed to offer futures in the U.S., further supports its futures market ambitions.
Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev expressed disappointment with the SEC’s regulatory approach, emphasizing the importance of crypto assets and the need to defend customer interests. He highlighted the necessity for Americans to have access to these assets, despite regulatory challenges.
