Citadel Securities expands crypto business with Wintermute hire

Citadel Securities has bolstered its cryptocurrency operations by appointing Willis Croft, a former Wintermute executive, as head of business development for digital assets, according to eFinancialCareers. The London-based professional joined Citadel in October, following a stint as a director of business development and partnerships at Wintermute. Croft's prior role at Genesis, a digital asset trading business that ceased operations in 2023, further underscores his expertise in the field.

This move comes as Citadel Securities intensifies its engagement in cryptocurrency markets. In early 2025, the firm revealed intentions to provide liquidity to major exchanges, including Coinbase and Binance. Subsequently, Citadel began supplying liquidity to Kraken, an investment of $200 million made in November 2025. The company is also expanding its systematic cryptocurrency trading capabilities, recruiting talent to bolster its digital assets division.

The appointment of Willis Croft represents a strategic shift in Citadel Securities' approach to digital assets, transitioning from earlier skepticism to active involvement. This expansion follows growing competition among established electronic market makers and specialized cryptocurrency trading firms as institutional interest in digital asset markets continues to rise.