Cryptocurrency derivatives exchange BitMEX announced on Thursday that it will permanently cease operations, with the shutdown scheduled for September 23.

The company stated that user assets remain secure and under client control during the wind-down period, aiming to mitigate panic among traders who have long relied on the platform for high-leverage bitcoin and altcoin contracts.

The decision marks the end of an era for one of the industry’s most prominent, albeit controversial, trading venues.

BitMEX has historically been a hub for sophisticated crypto traders, known for its deep liquidity and high leverage offerings.

Its closure removes a significant node from the global crypto derivatives market, potentially shifting volume to competitors such as Binance, Bybit, or OKX.

The move comes amid a broader period of uncertainty and consolidation in the cryptocurrency sector.