Bitstamp is the world’s longest-standing cryptocurrency exchange, continuously providing safe and open access to crypto since 2011, and The Cryptonomist had the pleasure of interviewing Jean-Baptiste Graftieaux.
With a proven track record and mature approach to the industry, Bitstamp provides a secure and transparent trading venue to over five million individuals and is the preferred choice for a range of institutional clients seeking a trusted partner to participate in crypto markets. Bitstamp is a sector leader in both security and compliance, with more than 50 licenses and registrations secured with financial regulators across the globe. Bitstamp is the only crypto exchange to receive seven consecutive AA ratings on CC Data’s Exchange Benchmark report.
- How do you view the current state of the crypto market, and what key trends do you foresee shaping the industry in the coming years?
The crypto market is experiencing volatility, with increasing institutional participation, regulatory clarity, and integrating AI in trading shaping its trajectory. While volatility remains a characteristic feature, we are seeing a shift towards more stability as key jurisdictions implement clearer regulatory frameworks, particularly in Europe (Mica) and the MAS license in the APAC region.
One trend to watch in 2025 is the continued exploration of central bank digital currencies. While most countries remain in the early phases of research and pilot testing, several are expected to make further progress in integrating national assets into their financial systems.
At the same time, while Bitcoin continues to lead the digital asset market, there is growing investor interest in a broader mix of altcoins, reflecting a more diversified approach to the crypto space.
- As a crypto CEO with a strong background in compliance, how do you see the role of regulation evolving, and what challenges and opportunities does it present for exchanges like Bitstamp?
Regulation is becoming a defining factor for the crypto industry. A well-structured regulatory environment enhances trust and facilitates institutional adoption. However, compliance also presents challenges, such as increased operational costs and the need for continuous adaptation to evolving policies.
For exchanges like Bitstamp, adhering to stringent compliance standards not only ensures longevity but also provides a competitive advantage in attracting institutional and retail clients looking for a secure and compliant trading environment. It also, importantly, builds trust with users that we have robust compliance frameworks so consumers can engage with the industry safely.
The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) is a promising start towards creating a uniform regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies within the European Union. However, to fully leverage the potential of digital assets on a global scale, we need harmonised regulations across different jurisdictions. This would help mitigate regulatory discrepancies, enhance cross-border cooperation, and foster a more cohesive and secure global crypto ecosystem.
- Bitstamp recently made changes to align with MiCA regulations, including delisting EURT. How do you balance regulatory compliance with maintaining a diverse range of trading options for your users?
Bitstamp prioritises regulatory adherence while striving to maintain a robust offering for our users. The recent delisting of EURT aligns with MiCA regulations and reflects our commitment to staying ahead of compliance requirements. While such decisions may temporarily impact asset diversity, they reinforce our long-term stability.
We remain focused on expanding our offerings within compliant frameworks, ensuring users have access to a wide range of secure and regulated digital assets.
- What role do you see retail and institutional partnerships playing in accelerating the mainstream adoption of crypto and digital assets?
Institutions provide liquidity, credibility, and infrastructure, while retail users drive awareness. For institutional investors joining the crypto ecosystem with a company that has both deep liquidity and reliable order execution alongside strong fiduciary, security and compliance controls presents a huge opportunity. By collaborating with both retail users and institutional investors, we can bridge traditional finance with the crypto ecosystem, offering seamless, compliant, and secure access to digital assets.
- You’ve recently partnered with major players like Circle, Stripe, BBVA, and Société Générale-FORGE. How do these collaborations reflect Bitstamp’s strategy for integrating crypto into the traditional financial ecosystem?
Bitstamp’s partnerships with Circle, Stripe, BBVA, and Société Générale-FORGE reflect our commitment to integrating crypto into traditional finance. These collaborations enable smoother fiat on/off ramps, greater accessibility, and increased institutional engagement.
They also align with our goal of positioning Bitstamp as a trusted bridge between legacy financial institutions and the digital asset economy, furthering our commitment to crypto being mainstream.
- What strategic advantages do you see in Robinhood’s acquisition of Bitstamp, and how will this shape Bitstamp’s global presence and offerings?
Bitstamp is excited to bring a better experience to our customers and grow alongside an innovative and mission-aligned company like Robinhood.
The acquisition will benefit Robinhood and Bitstamp customers by providing access to a broader range of products, resources, and expertise. The combined company will have a broader and more diverse experienced team.
This strategic partnership brings us together with a company with a mission to democratise finance globally.
- Bitstamp has historically been seen as one of the most reliable exchanges for retail users. Will the Robinhood acquisition shift your focus more towards institutional clients, or do you plan to maintain a balance?
This strategic combination aligns perfectly with Bitstamp’s vision of enabling individuals and companies to participate in crypto markets with confidence and security. By joining forces with Robinhood, Bitstamp can expand its reach, improve its market position, and continue to deliver secure and transparent service to its customers.
Robinhood is a mission-aligned with Bitstamp’s safety-first approach compliance being front and center for both companies.
- Given the delisting of EURT and the broader regulatory scrutiny around stablecoins, what is your perspective on the future of stablecoins in the crypto market?
Stablecoins are an important component of the digital asset economy, facilitating liquidity, payments, and cross-border transactions. Regulatory scrutiny is intensifying, but we anticipate that well-regulated stablecoins, such as those fully backed by reserves and compliant with evolving laws, will play an even greater role in financial markets.
The long-term outlook is positive, particularly as central banks and financial institutions explore regulated digital currencies.
- Having held leadership roles in both the traditional finance (PayPal, eBay) and crypto sectors, what lessons from your past experiences do you find most relevant to leading Bitstamp today?
My experience at PayPal and eBay has underscored the importance of trust, compliance, and user experience in financial services. In the crypto space, these principles are equally crucial.
The ability to navigate regulatory landscapes, foster institutional relationships, and prioritise customer security remains key to Bitstamp’s sustained success.
- What are your top priorities for Bitstamp in the next 12 months, especially in light of the ongoing changes in the regulatory landscape and the Robinhood acquisition?
Our primary focuses for 2025 will be on integrating with Robinhood to enhance user experience and expand global reach, continuing to grow our regulatory footprint, and expanding our product offerings to meet growing interest in crypto.
This is underpinned by our continued commitment to providing a secure, compliant, and accessible platform for users worldwide.