MEXC and Payward explore collaboration ahead of TOKEN2049

MEXC, a leading 0-fee digital asset trading platform, and Payward, the parent company of Kraken, are in early talks about a potential collaboration. The two companies plan to discuss their intentions during a panel at TOKEN2049 Singapore on October 7, 2026. MEXC CEO Vugar Usi Zade and Payward Co-CEO Arjun Sethi will lead the discussion, exploring how exchanges can better serve users amid evolving global markets.

The collaboration comes as trading platforms adapt to multiple shifts, including broader access to crypto and traditional markets, AI-driven trading tools, and the rise of social trading. Exchanges are increasingly looking beyond individual products to focus on market access, infrastructure, liquidity, and user experience. Security and asset protection remain key concerns as the industry evolves.

MEXC has built its reputation on retail user experience, deep liquidity, and perpetual trading across crypto and TradFi assets. Meanwhile, Payward offers global compliant financial infrastructure, professional trading capabilities, and a strong presence in the U.S. market. The companies see potential for collaboration where their strengths can add value for users.

Vugar Usi Zade emphasized that users expect broader market access without added complexity. He noted that the next stage of trading will require a strong user experience, liquidity, infrastructure, and market access working closely together. The TOKEN2049 panel will also cover the convergence of crypto and TradFi, the role of AI in trading, and the future of global trading platforms.