Emre Yumlu 
Amid a more flexible regulatory atmosphere in the crypto sector, Deribit, one of the world’s leading crypto options exchanges, is seriously evaluating a move into the United States. CEO Luuk Strijers noted that a “more favorable regulatory environment” is encouraging the company to explore new opportunities in the American market.
Headquartered in Dubai, Deribit processed a staggering $1.3 trillion in trading volume last year, cementing its role as a major player in the derivatives space. The company’s potential U.S. expansion is drawing further attention due to rumors surrounding a possible acquisition by major exchange Coinbase.
According to reports from March, both firms have already informed Dubai regulators about a possible deal. If finalized, Deribit’s operational license would be transferred to Coinbase.
Global Crypto Giants Turning Toward the U.S.
Deribit isn’t alone in its ambitions. A growing number of European and Asian crypto companies are once again eyeing the U.S. market.
This shift follows a period of intense regulatory pressure that began after the collapse of FTX in late 2022. During that time, enforcement actions from the SEC and Department of Justice pushed many firms to withdraw from the U.S.
Now, with Donald Trump’s administration taking over, industry sentiment appears to be changing. Trump’s pledge to “make America the global capital of crypto” has sparked optimism. Since the election, multiple crypto-related enforcement actions have reportedly been paused or dropped altogether. In a significant move, the DOJ has also shut down certain crypto-specific enforcement units.
A New Wave of Entrants
One company quick to act on the changing tide is OKX, which recently announced plans to open a U.S. headquarters in San Jose, California. This decision follows a major $504 million settlement with American regulators.
Likewise, Nexo, which exited the U.S. at the end of 2022 citing regulatory uncertainty, has confirmed its return to the market as of April 28.
Other industry leaders, including Switzerland-based Wintermute and Dubai’s DWF Labs, are also exploring entry into the U.S., signaling a broader shift in global crypto strategy.
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