Backpack EU, the European division of Backpack Exchange, has officially launched its operations with a CySEC-approved derivatives platform. This milestone makes it one of the first fully regulated venues for perpetual futures trading in Europe. The launch on September 8, 2025, marks a major step forward for the company, which emerged from the acquisition of the former FTX EU.
A Licensed and Regulated Approach
Operating under Trek Labs Europe Ltd and licensed by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (license number 273/15), Backpack EU is authorized under MiFID II to provide crypto derivatives throughout the European Union. The approval comes shortly after Backpack completed the repayment process for former FTX EU clients, reinforcing its image as a trustworthy and compliant exchange.
The platform currently offers more than 40 perpetual futures pairs with leverage of up to 10×. While perpetuals have long been available on offshore platforms, regulated access within the EU has been scarce. Backpack EU aims to bridge that gap by offering a secure and compliant alternative for both retail and institutional traders.
Timing Aligned With Regulatory Shifts
CEO Armani Ferrante emphasized that the launch comes at a crucial moment as European regulators continue shaping frameworks like MiCA and MiFID II. By operating within these legal structures, Backpack EU positions itself as a reliable option for investors seeking exposure to digital assets without depending on offshore venues that carry regulatory uncertainty.
This move also mirrors a global trend, with many exchanges racing to secure licenses as oversight tightens worldwide. Backpack EU’s entry into the European derivatives market not only expands access but also sets a standard for how exchanges can build long-term trust through compliance.
Potential to Attract Institutional Liquidity
Industry observers believe Backpack EU’s regulated futures offering could draw significant liquidity, particularly from institutions that have avoided unregulated exchanges. The combination of compliance, transparency, and advanced trading tools could help close the gap between traditional finance and crypto markets in Europe.
By securing CySEC approval, Backpack EU has positioned itself as a leader in Europe’s regulated crypto derivatives space, aiming to redefine how traders engage with digital assets in the post-FTX era.
