BitMEX, a well-known cryptocurrency exchange and derivatives platform established in 2014 by Arthur Hayes, is on the lookout for a buyer. This information comes from two insiders familiar with the situation.
The renowned exchange has essentially popularized perpetual futures among traders eager for leverage. To facilitate this sale, BitMEX hired boutique investment bank Broadhaven Capital Partners late last year.
Recently, there has been notable mergers and acquisitions interest in the crypto derivatives sector. For example, exchanges like Kraken and Coinbase are reportedly competing to acquire the leading options exchange Deribit. Additionally, FalconX acquired Arbelos Markets earlier this year to enhance its derivatives business.
In 2020, BitMEX caught scrutiny for failing to implement proper anti-money laundering measures. This led to charges, and soon after, Hayes resigned as CEO, alongside co-founders Ben Delo and Samuel Reed.
Both BitMEX and Broadhaven declined to provide comments regarding the acquisition discussions.
