More big names in financial services enter the cryptocurrency world

TD announced Wednesday that it had made an investment in ErisX, a fully regulated derivatives exchange and clearing firm that plans to include cryptocurrencies and digital asset futures on a single platform.

JB Mackenzie, head of futures and forex at TD, said the move is driven by demand from self-directed retail investors for more investing opportunities in cryptocurrencies, even after the market capitalization for digital currencies dropped sharply this year and regulators increased their scrutiny.

ErisX’s compliance with existing regulations for spot and futures trading is what made it an attractive opportunity compared to other cryptocurrency exchanges on the market, Mr. Mackenzie said. As TD works with ErisX to develop and launch digital currency investment products, Mr. Mackenzie said it was important to provide “the same experience they get with the existing…