Goldman Sachs Doubles Crypto Trading Desk, Hires 30 from Competitors

Goldman Sachs has doubled the headcount of its digital assets trading desk, hiring over 30 professionals from competing banks, crypto-native firms, and traditional trading backgrounds. The expansion signals renewed conviction in institutional crypto demand.

What We Know

Headcount: The desk has grown from ~25 to 55+ since January 2026.

Hires: Notable additions include senior traders from JPMorgan's crypto unit, Coinbase Institutional, and Jump Crypto.

Products: Focus areas include spot crypto OTC, derivatives, and structured products for institutional clients.

Why Now?

Sources cite several drivers:

1. Client Demand: Hedge funds and family offices are requesting crypto exposure through trusted counterparties.

2. Competitive Pressure: JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, and Citi have all expanded crypto capabilities.

3. Regulatory Clarity: The SEC's recent guidance on custody has removed a key blocker.

Career Implications

Goldman's hiring spree creates a ripple effect. When top talent moves, it opens roles at the firms they leave. We're tracking elevated hiring at:

JPMorgan Digital Assets

Bank of America Crypto Research

Citi Digital Asset Markets

If you're in TradFi and crypto-curious, the major banks are finally building teams worth joining.