Singapore MAS-regulated AsiaNext launches crypto derivatives trading
“The main motivation was to create a fair, orderly and transparent venue through which institutions can transact with confidence; that helps them realise the benefits of digital assets and crypto, while helping to minimise the downside risk. By putting regulation and rigorous governance at the forefront, we’re providing institutional investors with a safe venue for exposure to digital assets in this region.”
AsiaNext, an institution-only global digital asset exchange and a joint venture between SBI Digital Asset Holdings (SBI DAH) and SIX, has announced the launch of crypto derivatives trading.
A crypto derivatives trading offering is a crucial development for institutional investors seeking a safe and secure venue to trade digital assets. AsiaNext is part of the industry’s fully integrated digital asset ecosystem, that provides an institutional-grade, end-to-end digital assets value chain to professional investors.
AsiaNext, which received regulatory approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore back in September, will provide a broad product pipeline including digital securities, tokenised real-world assets and sustainability-focused listings.
A JV between SBI and SIX
The launch follows a joint survey carried out by SBI DAH and AsiaNext revealing that most institutions have increased their exposure to digital assets in the last 12 months. Despite the ‘crypto winter’, 60% report an increase in client demand for tokenised securities.
Chong Kok Kee, Chief Executive Officer of AsiaNext, said: “The main motivation was to create a fair, orderly and transparent venue through which institutions can transact with confidence; that helps them realise the benefits of digital assets and crypto, while helping to minimise the downside risk. By putting regulation and rigorous governance at the forefront, we’re providing institutional investors with a safe venue for exposure to digital assets in this region.”
Jos Dijsselhof, CEO, SIX, added: “The future of finance is in bridging the gap between traditional capital markets and digital ecosystems, with institutional adoption of digital assets emerging as a key pathway. AsiaNext, an institutional-grade solution, is poised to accelerate this transformative journey.”
Yoshitaka Kitao, CEO, SBI Holdings, commented: “As institutions increasingly recognise the comprehensive benefits offered by digital assets, the emphasis on risk management and a robust underlying infrastructure from venues like AsiaNext becomes paramount.”
AsiaNext supports low latency and HFT 24/7
Trading members, including renowned market maker B2C2 and a leading prime broker, benefit from reduced counterparty and settlement risk and can enjoy capital efficiencies through the venue’s innovative risk management process, flexibility, and capabilities to support frequent intra-day margining and settlement runs.
Pioneering a unique connectivity solution powered by Colt, AsiaNext also supports low latency and high-frequency trading available 24/7 (for crypto derivatives), as part of a suite of connectivity options for its members. This adds flexibility and comfort for professional traders at institutions. Its matching engine is also built and customised to the demands of an institutional-grade venue.
B2C2 and Winterminute involved with AsiaNext
Thomas Restout, CEO, B2C2, said: “Through engaging with the AsiaNext team in recent months, we’ve witnessed their unwavering commitment to governance and risk management, alongside their focus on aligning closely with our needs. This instils a high level of confidence in our partnership. Being at the forefront of digital asset adoption, we are pleased to provide liquidity on the venue through our collaboration.”
Evgeny Gaevoy, Founder & CEO, Wintermute, added: “As more traditional financial institutions explore alternative exposure to digital assets, partnering with AsiaNext enables us to elevate our derivatives offering, positioning Wintermute in the foreground of the expanding digital asset ecosystem.”
Paul Bertrand, Managing Director & Head of Global Capital Markets, APAC, JB Drax Honoré, said: “AsiaNext’s unique and capital efficient setup will help facilitate broader institutional adoption of digital assets. As a frontrunner in trade concepts and best execution services JB Drax Honoré is excited to participate.”
Jonathan Caldwell, Head of Distribution, Trovio Group, stated: “Trovio Group provides institutional-grade products for sophisticated global investors. Integration with AsiaNext will give our teams access to the broad spectrum of digital assets that are in its pipeline, to deliver safe and transparent access to new investment opportunities.”
