BitGo Launches Institutional OTC Trading Desk, Offering Spot and Derivatives

• BitGo has launched a global OTC crypto trading desk, offering spot, derivatives, and lending products for institutional investors.
• The desk integrates directly with BitGo’s custody services, eliminating prefunding risks while ensuring asset security during transactions.
• Led by experienced industry executives, the platform operates 24/7 and provides access to deep liquidity and competitive pricing.

BitGo firm has officially launched a global over-the-counter (OTC) crypto trading desk, offering institutional investors with access to spot and derivatives trading.The trading desk, which operated in stealth mode since early 2024, has already processed billions in trading volume and built a lending book exceeding $150 million.

This OTC desk provides the clients with the ability to trade more than 250 digital assets. BitGo’s trading platform integrates directly with its regulated custody services,thus eliminating the need for prefunding and ensuring that assets remain secure until the time of settlement. The company aims to enhance security and efficiency while providing access to deep liquidity and competitive pricing.

The trading desk is led by experienced executives, including Matt Ballensweig, formerly of Genesis and Bridgewater, and Stefan Von Haenisch, previously at OSL Group. The team’s expertise enables the firm to cater to the growing demand for institutional-grade crypto trading solutions while mitigating risks associated with market volatility and prefunding requirements.

24/7 Global Trading with Secure Custody

The OTC desk operates continuously, ensuring that institutional clients in all major time zones can access its services without interruptions. By leveraging BitGo’s custody solutions, clients can trade spot, derivatives, and lending products without transferring assets out of secure custody. The firm’s Go Network settlement infrastructure further enhances security by enabling on-demand settlements in crypto or cash.

BitGo’s approach focuses on eliminating pre funding risks, a major challenge in the crypto trading space. The integrated platform allows institutions to carry on trades across different asset classes while keeping their holdings within a qualified custody framework. 

BitGo’s Market Expansion and Future Plans

The launch of the OTC trading desk aligns with BitGo’s broader expansion plans. The company currently serves over 2,000 institutional clients across 90 countries. In December 2024, BitGo introduced a retail-focused platform, further extending its reach in the digital asset space.