Arkham Intelligence to launch crypto derivatives exchange: report

Arkham Intelligence, a blockchain data firm backed by notable investors including OpenAI founder Sam Altman, is set to launch a cryptocurrency derivatives exchange next month. The startup, which specializes in blockchain analytics, is relocating its operations from London and New York to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. While it aims to cater to retail investors, the platform will not be available to customers in the U.S.

Founded in 2020, Arkham is known for its innovative approach to analyzing blockchain data, revealing insights about the individuals and entities behind cryptocurrency transactions. The decision to enter the derivatives market aligns with the growing demand for such financial products, which derive their value from underlying assets like Bitcoin.

In July, Arkham introduced a feature allowing users to connect their Coinbase Wallets to its platform, enabling them to track their crypto holdings while the company continues its work in deanonymizing blockchain transactions.

The upcoming derivatives platform will operate under a free-trade zone license in the Dominican Republic, providing various tax and financial benefits. Arkham’s move into derivatives trading positions it to compete with major exchanges such as Binance, Bybit, and OKX, reflecting its ambition to capture a share of the expanding crypto derivatives market.