BitMEX

BitMEX (Bitcoin Mercantile Exchange) is a pioneering cryptocurrency exchange specializing in derivatives trading. Known for inventing the perpetual swap contract, BitMEX has maintained its reputation as a high-performance, professional-grade platform for sophisticated traders. With a focus on speed, security, and financial innovation, the exchange remains a dominant force in crypto futures and margin trading.

Company Ownership and Structure

BitMEX is owned and operated by HDR Global Trading Limited, incorporated in the Republic of Seychelles. Since its inception, the platform has maintained global relevance while enhancing transparency, operational controls, and regulatory alignment through international partnerships and independent compliance initiatives.

Platform Features

Perpetual and Futures Contracts

BitMEX offers highly liquid perpetual swaps and futures contracts across major cryptocurrencies. Traders can access up to 100× leverage on select instruments, with precision-engineered margining systems, deep order books, and real-time liquidation mechanisms.

Spot Trading

In response to growing demand for non-derivative products, BitMEX introduced a Spot exchange that supports direct asset purchases and sales. It features institutional-grade execution engines and a curated list of cryptoassets.

High-Performance Infrastructure

BitMEX delivers sub-10ms latency execution with a robust trading engine capable of processing hundreds of thousands of transactions per second. Co-location services and FIX API connectivity are also available for institutional clients.

Risk Management and Insurance

BitMEX uses an auto-deleveraging (ADL) system and insurance fund model to manage counterparty risk. Its insurance fund has consistently remained solvent through all market cycles, protecting traders from systemic losses during high-volatility events.

Regulatory and Security Standing

BitMEX has undergone significant operational and compliance transformations, including:

• Enhanced AML/KYC programs

• Licensing and regulatory dialogue with multiple jurisdictions

• Independent compliance oversight and audit mechanisms

The platform has maintained a perfect record of zero asset loss due to external hacks, underscoring its commitment to enterprise-grade security and infrastructure.

Innovation and Milestones

Industry Firsts

• Invented the perpetual swap contract

• First crypto exchange to offer 100× leverage

• Introduced programmable margin and liquidation tracking tools