Brett Harrison Bets on Perpetual Futures for Stocks and Commodities in Traditional Markets

TLDR

• Brett Harrison debuts AX for nonstop perpetual futures in traditional assets.
• AX merges crypto-style trading with stocks, indexes, and commodities.
• Bermuda approval enables global, 24/7 access to perpetual futures markets.
• Architect aims to modernize finance with regulated, crypto-inspired tools.
• Backed by Coinbase and Circle, AX targets hedge funds and global traders.

Brett Harrison, former FTX US president, has launched Architect Financial Technologies to introduce perpetual futures for traditional assets. His firm’s new platform, AX, secured approval from the Bermuda Monetary Authority to operate globally. The exchange will bring the crypto-style perpetual futures trading model to stocks, commodities, and more.

AX Exchange Brings 24/7 Perpetual Futures Access to Traditional Assets

Architect’s AX platform will offer perpetual futures across multiple asset classes, including stocks, indexes, metals, and energy. It operates under Bermuda’s regulatory framework and accepts both fiat and stablecoin collateral. Users can trade around the clock without relying on traditional banking hours.

The platform mirrors the design of crypto derivatives but focuses on conventional financial instruments. Architect intends to expand into emerging categories such as renewable energy and AI-linked resources. These include rare earth metals and data center compute costs, which are gaining relevance in the evolving economy.

AX utilizes a web interface, fast APIs, and SDKs across major programming languages for seamless access. Architect collaborated with Connamara Technologies to integrate a low-latency matching engine. All contracts are centrally cleared and run on an anonymous order book structure.

Perpetual Futures Model Adapted from Crypto Derivatives

Harrison leverages lessons from crypto markets to shape AX’s structure. The platform utilizes familiar cryptocurrency mechanisms, including margining systems, price bands, and risk controls. Settlement uses independent benchmarks and portfolio margining is available across asset classes.

While crypto exchanges pioneered perpetual futures in 2016, traditional finance has remained slow to adapt. Harrison believes the timing is right to bridge that gap through a regulated, accessible venue. The AX model gives traders exposure without requiring delivery of physical assets.

With U.S. regulators still cautious, Harrison opted for a Bermuda-based license to launch offshore. AX is currently available to institutional players, including hedge funds, family offices, and market makers. Qualified individuals can also join via a waitlist.

Experienced Leadership and Strong Financial Backing Power the Launch

Architect draws on Harrison’s background at Citadel Securities, Jane Street, and FTX US. He stepped down from FTX in September 2022, shortly before the exchange collapsed. Now, he applies his trading and exchange experience to bring perpetual futures to traditional markets.

The company is mid-way through its Series A funding round, having raised $17 million so far. Key backers include Coinbase Ventures, Circle Ventures, and the SALT Fund led by Anthony Scaramucci. These funds are earmarked for expanding the platform’s offerings and global presence.

Perpetual futures remain one of the most active trading products in crypto, and Harrison aims to replicate that success in conventional finance. AX’s launch marks a significant shift in market structure for traditional assets. Architect positions itself as a pioneer in regulated, continuous perpetual futures trading for global markets.

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