BitMEX ends crypto trading, keeps withdrawals open after closure
BitMEX has shut down all exchange operations, ending trading and deposits as of 4:00 UTC Wednesday, more than 11 years after launch. Users can still log in and withdraw remaining balances through the website, but API withdrawals will be disabled on Sept. 28, forcing withdrawals via the web interface. BitMEX said customer funds remain secure and urged users to remove remaining balances. The closure followed a strategic review by owner HDR Global Trading Limited and was said to be unrelated to legal or regulatory issues. Founded in 2014, BitMEX became a major crypto derivatives venue and helped popularize high-leverage perpetual swaps. The shutdown follows a July 23 announcement that exchange services would end on Sept. 23. It also comes shortly after the Celsius bankruptcy estate sued five BitMEX-linked companies over alleged fraud, manipulation, and wrongful liquidations tied to the March 2020 crash.
