New initiatives

The much-anticipated futures exchange Bakkt has just announced that it received all regulatory approvals needed to start offering its physically-settled bitcoin futures. The launch date is set for the 23rd of September. Upon launch, the market is expecting the exchange to drive up the direct demand for ‘physical’ bitcoins, possibly reducing available supply on the spot markets. Its rival CME offers cash-settled futures which do not require physical bitcoins to transact. Bakkt with its product could become the most liquid exchange catering to traders and investors who prefer more regulated venues for ‘physical’ bitcoin. Now the market is waiting for details of the contracts, such as the margin requirements and trade sizes.

Binance, one of the world’s leading crypto exchanges, announced a global initiative to create local stablecoins in all markets in which it operates. This initiative will compete with Facebook’s Libra ambition. Both firms are seeking to develop a next-generation payment infrastructure independent of any firm to help millions access essential financial services at a relatively low cost. It is doubtful any will succeed considering the regulatory environment. Facebook is already under anti-trust scrutiny for its digital asset plans.