Deribit, the world’s largest crypto options exchange, is contemplating an expansion into the US market, encouraged by a perceived friendlier regulatory environment under President Donald Trump’s administration, as reported by the Financial Times. The Dubai-based exchange, which facilitated $1.3 trillion in notional volume last year, is actively exploring potential opportunities in the United States, according to CEO Luuk Strijers. He attributed the decision to a recent shift towards a more positive regulatory stance on crypto in the US. This move by Deribit coincides with reports of negotiations with Coinbase for a potential acquisition. Both companies have informed regulators in Dubai, where Deribit is licensed, and if the deal goes through, the license would need to be transferred to Coinbase. In a similar vein, other competitors like Kraken are also eyeing growth in the derivatives sector, exemplified by their recent acquisition of NinjaTrader for $1.5 billion. The trend of crypto firms targeting US expansion is gaining traction, with Deribit joining a host of European and Asian companies exploring this avenue. This shift follows a period of regulatory challenges during the Biden administration, notably after the FTX collapse in late 2022. However, the regulatory landscape appears to be evolving under the Trump administration, which has expressed intent to establish the US as a crypto hub. Industry confidence is growing as evidenced by OKX’s plans to set up a US headquarters in San Jose following a $504 million settlement with US authorities. Additionally, Nexo, which had exited the US citing regulatory ambiguity, is reentering the market. Noteworthy players like Switzerland’s Wintermute and Dubai’s DWF Labs are also showing interest in expanding into the US market. The industry’s positive outlook is further bolstered by recent moves from regulatory bodies like the SEC dropping enforcement cases against crypto companies and the Department of Justice disbanding its crypto enforcement unit, signaling a more lenient approach to the sector.