BitMEX Exchange Ceases Trading; Withdrawals Remain Open but New Fees Apply

BitMEX ended all exchange trading at 12:00 a.m. EDT on September 23, 2026, after a wind‑down that began with a July 23 announcement. While new deposits are no longer accepted, the platform’s login and withdrawal functions remain active.

Withdrawal Process and Timeline

Account holders are urged to withdraw any remaining crypto as soon as possible. The exchange advises users to check the email linked to their account for specific withdrawal instructions and to expect possible delays due to verification checks, high demand, and blockchain confirmation times.

New Account Fee for Verified Users

Balances left on the platform after the shutdown are subject to a monthly fee. The fee is the greater of a $50‑equivalent amount or 1 % per year, calculated on an annual basis but billed each month. This fee applies only to users who have completed identity verification.

Background and Closure Reasoning

BitMEX, launched in 2014 and known for pioneering perpetual swap contracts, announced a strategic review of its business and the broader crypto industry as the reason for the shutdown. The July 23 notice stopped new registrations, and from August 26 trading positions were no longer allowed to be opened. All open positions were force‑closed at the shutdown time.

Security and Phishing Alerts

The exchange warns users against phishing attempts that claim to speed up withdrawals and reiterates that no priority or expedited withdrawal service is offered.

Impact on Users

After the closure, users retain access to their account balances and historical transaction data, but the platform no longer provides trading services. The focus is now solely on processing withdrawals.