Goldman Sachs In Talks With FTX To Integrate Derivatives Trading

Goldman Sachs and other Wall Street banks are in talks with crypto exchange FTX to integrate leveraged derivatives trading.
By Varinder Singh
Updated July 16, 2022
Goldman Sachs Hails Spot ETFs as a Psychological Turning Point: More Gains For BTC, ETH?

Goldman Sachs and other Wall Street banks are in talks with crypto exchange FTX to integrate leveraged derivatives trading. Goldman Sachs’ collaboration with FTX will introduce several benefits including direct futures trading, introducing clients and acting as an on-ramp to the exchange, and providing capital top-ups for clients.

In fact, Goldman Sachs has been in discussion with crypto exchange FTX for potential collaborations. Also, Goldman CEO David Solomon and FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried recently discussed a role in a potential IPO, market-making in crypto trades, and helping FTX with regulations.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Goldman Sachs Commits Integrating Derivatives Trading with FTX

Leading investment bank Goldman Sachs seeks to integrate derivatives trading services with FTX as the crypto exchange expands into the traditional financial industry, reported Barron’s on June 1.

FTX is one of the largest crypto derivatives exchanges serving U.S. customers through its subsidiary FTX.US. With its ambition to offer crypto and other financial products through a single platform, FTX has been in continuous discussion with the SEC and the CFTC.

The exchange also wants to handle collateral and margin requirements, which are usually handled by brokerages, such as Goldman Sachs, which act as futures commission merchants or FCMs. FTX claims the integrated model improves market stability and frees up capital for brokerages acting as FCMs.

FTX argues the firm itself holds customer collateral and calculates margin requirements, liquidating positions automatically, rather than waiting overnight. These procedures have been tested for handling massive trades and in periods of extreme volatility.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Concerns Over FTX Integrated Derivatives Trading Proposal

The CFTC believes the FTX’s proposal to act as an FCM needs scrutiny. The proposal has been opposed by the U.S. Congress as it threatens the brokerage industry. Thus, even if Goldman or other Wall Street brokerages integrate some trading services with FTX, it’s unclear if regulators agree to it.

Moreover, the Futures Industry Association has pushback against the FTX proposal, claiming it can increase financial instability and market volatility.

Advertisement
Varinder Singh
Varinder has over 10 years of experience and is known as a seasoned leader for his involvement in the fintech sector. With over 5 years dedicated to blockchain, crypto, and Web3 developments, he has experienced two Bitcoin halving events making him key opinion leader in the space. At CoinGape Media, Varinder leads the editorial decisions, spearheading the news team to cover latest updates, markets trends and developments within the crypto industry. The company was recognized as Best Crypto Media Company 2024 for high impact and quality reporting. Being a Master of Technology degree holder, analytics thinker, technology enthusiast, Varinder has shared his knowledge of disruptive technologies in over 5000+ news, articles, and papers.
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.