Crypto exchange Bittrex moving headquarters from Malta to Liechtenstein

Cryptocurrency exchange Bittrex has announced it is moving headquarters from the “Blockchain Island” Malta to Liechtenstein.

While the reason for the move was not disclosed, the exchange said it will be closing Bittrex International, which operates out of Malta, on Oct. 29.  Interestingly, just last month, Malta's financial regulator said that it will “actively monitor” licensed cryptocurrency businesses in the country to prevent money laundering.

Upon closure in Malta, Bittrex will operate under the brand Bittrex Global, out of Liechtenstein. “Once Bittrex Global launches, eligible Bittrex International customers, including corporate accounts, will be seamlessly redirected to Bittrex Global,” the exchange said.

The launch of Bittrex Global was announced earlier this month when the exchange said it will offer trading in cryptocurrencies per Liechtenstein’s Transaction Systems Based on Trustworthy Technologies Act, also known as the Blockchain Act.

Last week Bittrex announced it will be shutting down in 31 countries, including Venezuela and Zimbabwe, also on Oct. 29, due to "regulatory uncertainty."