Talos, a technology provider for institutional trading of digital assets, has partnered with Coinbase Derivatives to expand the avenues available for investors seeking to invest in cryptocurrency within a regulated framework. This collaboration enables investors to access a regulated futures exchange offering Bitcoin and ether futures contracts.

Exploring Institutional Crypto Derivatives

According to the press release, these contracts, sized at 1 Bitcoin and 10 ether, cater specifically to the needs of institutional investors. They provide a tool for managing exposure to the crypto market without the complexities of direct asset custody.

Daniel Packham, the VP and Head of Operations for EMEA at Talos, mentioned: "The derivatives markets are a significant component of the digital assets ecosystem for institutions who seek secure, liquid, and increasingly regulated venues for trading. We have seen a lot of interest and growth in our derivatives business, and our integration with Coinbase Derivatives will expand the universe of regulated futures that clients can access using the Talos platform."

Coinbase Derivatives offers nano-sized contracts tailored for retail investors to allow for more accessible participation in crypto derivatives trading. Talos' clients can leverage the liquidity of Coinbase Derivatives' futures contracts through algorithms, including Talos' Multileg algorithm, which facilitates the implementation of trading strategies.

Talos provides the technology supporting digital assets for institutional investors, such as liquidity sourcing, settlement , and portfolio management. The firm connects institutions to key participants in the digital asset space.

Last year, Coinbase Derivatives introduced Bitcoin and ether futures contracts. These futures are accessible through third-party institutional Futures Commission Merchants and brokers. The initiative signified the efforts by Coinbase to meet the growing demand for crypto futures among investors.

Fulfilling Institutional Demands

Futures contracts enable investors to secure positions for buying or selling assets at predetermined prices in the future. This offering provides a structured approach to risk management and speculation in the crypto market. Coinbase's foray into derivatives followed its launch of a global cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, which caters to institutional clients outside the US.

However, regulatory hurdles presented significant challenges, including a Wells Notice from the Securities and Exchange Commission. The notice accused Coinbase of offering unregistered securities, highlighting the regulatory uncertainties surrounding the crypto industry in the US.