Amsterdam’s crypto scene is buzzing with the latest announcement from D2X. This burgeoning crypto derivatives exchange, structured specifically for institutional investors, has just secured a robust $5 million in a strategic funding round. The funding comes from a mix of new and familiar faces, with Circle Ventures, CMT Digital, and Canton Ventures stepping in alongside returning supporters like Point72 Ventures, Tioga Capital, GSR, and Fortino Capital.
A New Era for Crypto Derivatives
D2X’s recent capital boost underscores a significant milestone in the crypto derivatives market, particularly in Europe. As the first regulated crypto derivatives exchange in a Tier-1 jurisdiction that operates around the clock, D2X is setting a high bar under the EU’s MiFID II framework. This is no small feat, considering that the crypto world is often mired in regulatory ambiguity.
The firm has already made waves with the launch of USD-denominated bitcoin (BTC) and ether (ETH) futures. And it doesn’t stop there. Options on these assets are reportedly on the horizon, signaling D2X’s ambition to expand its offerings and solidify its foothold in the crypto derivatives space. This move aligns with broader industry trends, as seen in Standard Chartered’s launch of Bitcoin and Ether trading for institutions.
Charlie Sandor from CMT Digital shared his enthusiasm for the investment, highlighting the unique position D2X holds in bridging critical gaps for institutional investors. “D2X sets a new benchmark for crypto derivatives in Europe,” Sandor remarked, pointing to the firm’s commitment to regulatory clarity and operational continuity over the weekends—an often-overlooked aspect in global financial markets.
Navigating a Crowded Market
The crypto derivatives sector is increasingly competitive, with heavyweights like Coinbase and Kraken making strategic moves to acquire derivatives platforms. This surge in activity indicates a burgeoning interest and the potential for substantial growth in the market. For D2X, this means not just keeping pace but staying ahead of the curve with innovative solutions and robust infrastructure. This follows a pattern of institutional adoption, which we detailed in Standard Chartered Now Offers Institutional Bitcoin, Ethereum Trading—Here’s What It Means.
What sets D2X apart is its approach to collateral management. Partnering with banks to hold collateral off-exchange caters to risk-averse investors who are cautious about centralized custody. This feature, perhaps more than any other, could position D2X as a preferred platform for institutions wary of the vulnerabilities exposed by previous high-profile crypto exchange failures.
The Road Ahead
The injection of fresh capital and the backing of influential investors suggest a promising trajectory for D2X. However, the road ahead is dotted with challenges and uncertainties. The crypto derivatives market is volatile by nature, and regulatory landscapes are continually shifting. Whether D2X can maintain its momentum and truly reshape the European crypto derivatives market remains to be seen.
Looking forward, D2X will need to navigate these complexities while continuing to innovate and expand its product offerings. As the firm rolls out options trading later this year, all eyes will be on its ability to deliver on its promises and sustain its growth in an increasingly crowded field.
The crypto world is unpredictable—markets swing, regulations evolve, and new players emerge. Yet, with its recent funding and strategic positioning, D2X seems poised to ride the next wave of growth in the crypto derivatives space. However, as always in crypto, only time will tell if the firm can capitalize on its current momentum and chart a successful path forward.
Source
This article is based on: D2X Raises $5M to Expand Crypto Derivatives Exchange for Institutions
Further Reading
Deepen your understanding with these related articles:
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- Zodia Markets Raises $18.25M to Fuel International Expansion, Stablecoin Payments
- Hong Kong’s OSL Raises $300M to Bring ‘Trusted Access’ to Crypto Ahead of Stablecoin Law Rollout
Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
