Backpack Exchange acquires FTX EU, prioritizing customer fund returns, MiFID II license, and expanding crypto trading across Europe

Backpack Exchange has acquired FTX EU and its MiFID II license, enabling the exchange to prioritize customer fund returns, expand crypto trading across Europe, and operate under the upcoming MiCA regulation. Backpack Exchange, a crypto exchange licensed in Dubai, has announced the acquisition of FTX EU and its MiFID II license. The acquisition was approved by the FTX bankruptcy court and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). A year after the European arm of FTX, once a leading crypto exchange, collapsed, Backpack Exchange has taken over the responsibility.

Backpack’s official “X” account shared that crypto perpetual trading in Europe is also making a return. The exchange is focusing on returning customer EURO funds on behalf of the FTX estate as its topmost priority. Following this, they intend to introduce a full range of trading products. They include spot trade, margin trade, and futures trade.

The acquisition marks a significant step in rebuilding trust within the crypto industry, said Armani Ferrante, CEO of Backpack Exchange. He stated that customer restitution was imperative. Keeping customer funds safe and returned quickly is the priority, he added.

Backpack Exchange, which was founded in 2023, quickly became one of the top crypto exchanges in the world. In a Series A financing round in early 2024, it raised $120 million. As a result, the exchange was able to acquire a MiFID II license, which enabled it to expand its services across the EU. Before this, Backpack already had a license from the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

Backpack Exchange to Provide Consumer Protection Under MiCA RegulationThe new arm of Backpack Exchange, called Backpack EU, will offer crypto derivatives. These will include perpetual futures and will be available throughout the EU. It plans to go live in the first quarter of 2025. It will also enable payments through wire transfer and SEPA in major European currencies, as well as fiat.

This acquisition is happening as the EU is implementing its Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. MiCA will set the standards and guidelines for virtual asset providers (VASP), such as exchanges, custodians and wallet providers to protect consumers.

According to Armani Ferrante, becoming a MiFID II licensed entity demonstrates Backpack’s determination to completely adhere to high regulatory standards. Backpack is helping to fill a void as many international exchanges are leaving the EU. For its part, it will help bring to Europe transparent, secure and regulated crypto trading, Ferrante added. The need for that is even greater because the EU crypto market is growing and it needs trusted services.

Backpack Exchange will be able to expand its services in Europe thanks to the acquisition of FTX EU. The exchange is already preparing to launch new trading products and enable customer fund returns.

The news comes after CySEC recently extended its suspension of FTX EU. It banned FTX EU from operating but permitted it to refund clients. Backpack Exchange is working to complete this process and return funds to FTX EU users as quickly as possible.

In summary, Backpack Exchange’s acquisition of FTX EU is a major development. It shows their dedication to expanding the market in Europe and adhering to international regulations.