About
Akuna Capital is an innovative proprietary trading firm that emphasises collaboration, cutting-edge technology, and automation. As a leading options market maker, Akuna specialises in providing liquidity by offering competitive quotes for both buying and selling. The firm's success is built on designing and implementing its own low-latency technologies, trading strategies, and mathematical models.
Founded in 2011 by Andrew Killion and the founding partners, Akuna Capital was first conceptualised in Sydney before opening its headquarters in Chicago, the heart of the derivatives and options industry. Since then, Akuna has expanded its global presence with additional offices in Sydney, Shanghai, London, and Boston. Through continuous innovation, the firm provides liquidity to the markets, staying nimble and agile in an ever-evolving competitive landscape.
With no external clients or investors, Akuna trades exclusively with its own capital. A growing number of employee shareholders have the opportunity to influence the firm’s future. While proud of its achievements, Akuna is even more excited about the road ahead as it enters new markets, trades new products, and develops forward-thinking strategies.
Our Culture
Akuna Capital fosters a collaborative, competitive, and fun work environment. The firm's offices are designed to encourage teamwork in open, relaxed settings, complete with floor-to-ceiling whiteboards, ping-pong tables, and scenic views. Whether in Chicago, Sydney, or Shanghai, the office spaces are built to inspire innovation and creativity.
Akuna places a strong emphasis on work-life balance, offering generous vacation time, nutritious meals, and a variety of social events and clubs. From fitness classes to trivia nights, the firm ensures its employees have ample opportunities to unwind and connect with colleagues outside of work.
Growth and Opportunity
Akuna Capital retains a start-up mentality, where every employee plays a key role in shaping the firm’s success. The company encourages continuous learning and career development through industry conferences, courses, and its internal learning program, Akuna U. As Akuna continues to grow, so do the opportunities for its team members to advance their careers while helping drive the firm forward.
Values
The name "Akuna" is inspired by the Australian Aboriginal word for "flowing water," a word that exists in no other language. Just as water flows, adapts, and sustains, Akuna Capital has built its foundation on the principles of fluidity, innovation, and growth. Akuna Capital's core values include:
Rapid Innovation Through New Technologies
The firm embraces cutting-edge technology and continuous advancement to stay at the forefront of the trading industry.
Collaborative Flow of Knowledge
Akuna fosters an environment where knowledge flows freely across teams, encouraging a culture of collaboration and shared learning.
A Thirst for Individual Growth and Opportunity
Akuna values personal development and offers its team members the chance to grow both
What sets us apart
Options & Crypto Market Maker
Founded by ex-Optiver trader, Andrew Killion, Akuna Capital stands apart from other trading firms with its sharp focus on options market making. Akuna was also an early mover on Deribit, giving graduates the opportunity to trade traditional and digital derivatives from the Sydney office.
Akunacademy Training Sprint
A seven‑week bootcamp blends lectures, Python projects and mock pits, turning maths or CS students into desk‑ready traders and quants.
Start‑Up Atmosphere with Top‑End Pay
Akuna emphasises rapid growth and innovation. New hires are given the opportunity to make a meaningful impact early in their careers, including building out new desks and entering emerging markets.
