Goldman Sachs plans to revive its cryptocurrency trading desk in 2025, aiming to expand digital asset initiatives under the leadership of Mathew McDermott, the Global Head of Digital Assets.
The revival signifies increased institutional interest in cryptocurrencies, potentially impacting market liquidity and regulatory environments as Goldman Sachs pursues innovation in digital financial services.
Goldman Sachs Intensifies Focus on Institutional Crypto Adoption
In 2025, Goldman Sachs is actively reviving its cryptocurrency trading desk. The firm is committed to enhancing digital asset initiatives, a move confirmed by senior leadership. This effort signifies a renewed focus on institutional crypto adoption.
Mathew McDermott, Global Head of Digital Assets, leads the initiative, emphasizing the potential of distributed technology. His past roles have positioned him to drive this commitment. Goldman Sachs aims to redefine market connectivity with this expansion. As McDermott stated, “Delivering a distributed technology solution to a wide cross‑section of financial market participants has the potential to redefine market connectivity, infrastructure composability, and to deliver a new suite of commercial opportunities for the buy‑ and sell‑side.” For more of McDermott’s insights, see his discussion on blockchain’s impact on finance and innovation.
33% Client Allocation to Crypto Signals Market Shift
The crypto desk revival is expected to impact the market significantly. 33% of Goldman Sachs’ family office clients now allocate funds to cryptocurrencies, indicating a sharp rise in institutional interest. This move opens new commercial opportunities for the firm. Goldman Sachs research indicates a wider acceptance, extending to cryptocurrency innovations.
The firm’s crypto desk covers Bitcoin, Ethereum, and privacy coins like Monero. These assets are set to gain increased institutional interest. Historical data suggests potential liquidity shifts as institutional desks expand their cryptocurrency exposure.
2025 Relaunch Aligned with Regulatory Clarity
Goldman Sachs announced a crypto trading desk in 2018, which was later shelved. The 2025 relaunch aligns with enhanced regulatory clarity and demand. This shift parallels past milestones like the CME Bitcoin Futures launch in 2017.
Experts highlight the firm’s strategy as a turning point for institutional crypto adoption. Kanalcoin notes that Goldman Sachs’ focus on permissions and interoperability could reshape the market, drawing from historical trends and data. For more insights into Goldman Sachs' strategic moves, see their latest initiatives and updates for 2024.