Arthur Hayes Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Arthur Hayes is a noted figure in the cryptocurrency industry, recognized for his influential role as the Co-Founder and former CEO of BitMEX, one of the largest cryptocurrency derivatives exchanges in the world. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Hayes cultivated an early interest in finance. He attended the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics. This academic background laid the foundation for his subsequent ventures into global financial markets. After completing his education, Hayes moved to Hong Kong, where he started his career in the traditional finance sector. He worked as an equity derivatives trader at Deutsche Bank and Citibank. These roles equipped him with extensive knowledge and experience in trading and the complexities of financial derivatives. However, Hayes soon recognized the untapped potential of digital currencies and, driven by his entrepreneurial spirit, he ventured into the nascent world of cryptocurrencies. In 2014, Hayes co-founded BitMEX (Bitcoin Mercantile Exchange) alongside Ben Delo and Samuel Reed. The platform quickly gained traction for pioneering cryptocurrency derivatives trading. Under Hayes's leadership, BitMEX introduced innovative financial products such as perpetual swap contracts, which became immensely popular among traders. With its sophisticated trading engine and high-leverage options, BitMEX established itself as a leader in the digital asset trading space, attracting millions of users worldwide. Despite some challenges, including regulatory scrutiny, Hayes's tenure at BitMEX was marked by significant growth and expansion of the platform. He stepped down as CEO in 2020 but remains a vocal advocate for the evolution of the crypto market. His insights into market trends and regulatory developments continue to be valued by industry participants. Today, Arthur Hayes is not only a seasoned financial executive but also a respected thought leader in the cryptocurrency community. He frequently shares his perspectives through public speaking engagements and written commentaries, influencing both seasoned investors and newcomers to the field. His journey from traditional finance to crypto pioneer exemplifies his adaptability and forward-thinking approach, marking him as a key figure in the ongoing digital finance revolution.