- Hidden Road, backed by Citadel Securities, has stopped offering access to Bybit due to KYC and AML disagreements.
- Bybit is reviewing its compliance processes in response, amid increasing global regulatory scrutiny.
Citadel Securities-backed prime brokerage firm Hidden Road has recently announced that it will no longer offer its clients access to trading on Bybit, the third-largest crypto exchange by volume. This decision, communicated to clients a few weeks ago, stems from a disagreement over Bybit’s know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements. The split highlights growing regulatory scrutiny on crypto exchanges worldwide.
Bybit Response to Compliance Issues
In response to the termination of services by Hidden Road, Bybit has initiated a comprehensive compliance review of its prime brokerage business. Bybit aims to ensure its operations meet relevant regulations and improve the onboarding process for customers. Although Bybit did not comment on its relationship with Hidden Road, a spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to transparency and future updates on the review process.
The Regulatory Landscape and Bybit’s Position
Regulators in the United States and other jurisdictions are intensifying their scrutiny of crypto exchanges to prevent money laundering and sanctions evasion. Countries like Russia and Iran have increasingly used digital assets to circumvent financial blockades. Bybit, headquartered in Dubai, has been proactive in addressing these regulatory challenges. Despite being the third-largest centralized crypto exchange in the first quarter, with 8.2% of the market, Bybit has yet to receive a full Virtual Asset Service Provider license in Dubai.
The Role of Prime Brokerage in Crypto
Prime brokers like Hidden Road play a crucial role in the cryptocurrency market, especially for institutional traders. They provide essential services such as execution, clearing, and financing, contributing significantly to market liquidity. Prime brokers are particularly important in an environment where top exchanges like Binance dominate global trading volumes.
Impact of Binance’s Settlement on Prime Brokerage
The significance of prime brokerage has come under increased scrutiny following Binance’s $4.3 billion settlement with US authorities. Binance was accused of allowing US-based VIP customers to trade on its international exchange without proper controls. This incident has led to heightened demands for stringent checks from prime brokers, including Hidden Road and FalconX, to prevent US investors from accessing offshore exchanges.
Hidden Road’s Market Presence and Future Prospects
Founded in 2018 by Marc Asch, Hidden Road offers prime brokerage services across various asset classes, including foreign exchange, precious metals, and crypto. The firm raised $50 million in a Series A funding round in 2022 from investors like Ken Griffin’s Citadel Securities. As of April, Hidden Road was reportedly seeking additional capital at a $1 billion valuation, highlighting its growth and significant market presence.
Hidden Road’s Founding and Growth
Marc Asch, who founded Hidden Road, previously worked for hedge fund billionaire Steven Cohen at SAC Capital and Point72 Asset Management. This experience has positioned Hidden Road as a formidable player in the prime brokerage market, attracting substantial investments and expanding its services across different asset classes.
Bybit Strategic Initiatives in Dubai
Bybit opened a new headquarters in Dubai last year, strengthening its position in the Middle East. The exchange’s move to Dubai aligns with its strategic initiatives to expand its market reach and comply with regional regulatory requirements. Bybit’s proactive approach to compliance and market expansion underscores its commitment to maintaining its position as a leading crypto exchange.
Bybit Market Share and Compliance Efforts
Bybit’s 8.2% market share in the first quarter of this year reflects its strong presence in the crypto market. The exchange’s ongoing compliance review aims to enhance its regulatory adherence and customer onboarding processes, ensuring it remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Conclusion
The decision by Hidden Road to halt trading access to Bybit underscores the increasing regulatory pressures faced by crypto exchanges. Bybit’s response with a comprehensive compliance review demonstrates its commitment to adhering to global standards. As the crypto market continues to evolve, both Bybit and Hidden Road are positioned to navigate these changes, ensuring they meet the demands of regulators and market participants alike.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. The article does not offer sufficient information to make investment decisions, nor does it constitute an offer, recommendation, or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument. The content is opinion of the author and does not reflect any view or suggestion or any kind of advise from CryptoNewsBytes.com. The author declares he does not hold any of the above mentioned tokens or received any incentive from any company.
