X launches crypto trading feature via IBKR and Gemini

Elon Musk's social media platform X has launched a new feature allowing U.S. users to trade Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies through partner platforms. The development marks the first step in a broader plan to offer stock and crypto trading directly on the platform, aligning with Musk's stated goal of turning X into an "everything app" with banking features.

Users access the trading functionality by tapping a tag such as "$BTC" alongside a "trade" button on X. This action redirects users to Interactive Brokers or Gemini, where they can execute buy and sell orders for digital assets. The integration connects the social platform's user base with established brokerage services rather than hosting the trading infrastructure internally.

X currently provides real-time prices and charts for various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. With 245 million global users across all devices, the platform serves as a significant venue for discussions regarding digital assets. Posts by influencers, including Musk, have previously been associated with immediate price movements in the markets. Bitcoin was trading at approximately $86,000 on September 22.