Deribit Eyes U.S. Market Entry as Trump Era Signals Softer Crypto Regulations
Regulatory thaw under Trump sparks global crypto firms’ renewed interest in U.S. expansion
Dubai-based Deribit, the world’s largest crypto options exchange by volume, is exploring a strategic expansion into the United States, encouraged by what it views as a significantly more crypto-friendly stance under President Donald Trump.
Speaking to the Financial Times, CEO Luuk Strijers confirmed the exchange is “actively reassessing potential opportunities” in the U.S., following what he described as a regulatory shift favoring digital assets.
Deribit processed $1.3 trillion in notional volume in 2023, underlining the scale it could bring to American markets.
Coinbase Merger Rumors Add Another Layer to Deribit’s U.S. Ambitions
According to a March 21 Bloomberg report, Coinbase is in advanced discussions to acquire Deribit, with both companies notifying regulators in Dubai, where Deribit currently holds a license. Should the acquisition proceed, Coinbase would assume regulatory oversight of the platform.
This comes as Kraken moves to strengthen its own derivatives portfolio, acquiring NinjaTrader in a $1.5 billion deal, signaling intensifying competition in the U.S. crypto derivatives space.
Post-FTX Clampdown Eases as Trump Administration Changes Tune
Deribit’s plans reflect a broader trend among European and Asian crypto platforms revisiting U.S. expansion. The shift follows a hostile regulatory environment during the Biden administration, marked by the collapse of FTX in late 2022 and a series of enforcement crackdowns by the SEC and Department of Justice.
Under Trump, the SEC has paused or dropped over a dozen crypto-related enforcement actions. The DOJ also dissolved its crypto enforcement unit, signaling a retreat from aggressive oversight.
Trump’s campaign pledge to make the U.S. the “crypto capital of the world” appears to be moving markets—and executive strategies.
Global Crypto Firms Return to U.S. Shores
Deribit isn’t alone in seeking to capitalize on the friendlier climate. Other firms making moves include:
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OKX, which announced a new U.S. headquarters in San Jose, California, shortly after settling a $504 million case with U.S. authorities.
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Nexo, which exited the U.S. in 2022 due to lack of clarity, is now reentering the market.
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Wintermute (Switzerland) and DWF Labs (Dubai) are reportedly evaluating U.S. strategies as well.
The trend reflects renewed institutional confidence that the world’s largest economy may again be open for crypto business.
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