IG Group Finalizes Acquisition of Australian Crypto Exchange Independent Reserve, Eyes Asian Expansion
In a significant move to solidify its position in the digital asset space, IG Group has finalized its acquisition of Australian cryptocurrency exchange Independent Reserve. The deal, which received crucial regulatory clearance from Singaporean authorities on January 30, allows the London-listed trading firm to fully integrate the licensed platform into its portfolio.
First announced in September for an initial consideration of AUD 178 million (approximately £86.8 million), the acquisition provides IG with immediate access to a compliant, operational crypto exchange with deep roots in Australia and a growing footprint in Asia. Independent Reserve has built its reputation on serving both retail and institutional clients with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and security protocols.
"This acquisition is a strategic fit, allowing us to enter the digital assets market with a established, trusted platform rather than building one from the ground up," a company spokesperson stated. Adrian Przelozny, CEO and co-founder of Independent Reserve, will remain at the helm, ensuring continuity for the exchange's existing client base.
The transaction aligns with IG's historically cautious yet deliberate approach to cryptocurrency. Unlike firms that pursued rapid, unregulated expansion, IG has consistently prioritized operating within established regulatory frameworks. This strategy now positions the company to roll out crypto trading services—powered by Independent Reserve's technology—in Singapore, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates in the second half of 2026, pending final local approvals.
This expansion builds upon IG's gradual foray into crypto, which included the introduction of spot trading for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP for retail investors in 2025. Matt Macklin, Head of Asia Pacific and Middle East at IG, highlighted the growing institutional and retail demand in these regions as a key driver behind the deal. "Independent Reserve brings proven technical infrastructure and a steadfast commitment to client asset security, which is non-negotiable for us," Macklin noted.
The market has responded positively to IG's strategic direction. At the time of the acquisition's completion, IG Group shares were trading at 1,351 pence, marking a 33% increase over the preceding twelve months. Analysts view the move not as a speculative bet, but as a calculated step to capture growth in the increasingly institutionalized digital asset sector.
Expert Commentary:
"This is a textbook example of a traditional finance player doing its homework," says David Chen, a fintech analyst at Meridian Capital. "IG isn't chasing hype; they're acquiring regulated market access and operational expertise in one move. It's a slower, but far more sustainable path to growth in crypto."
"Finally, a major trader acknowledges that Asia-Pacific is the engine room of crypto adoption," remarks Priya Sharma, a Singapore-based investment advisor. "Leveraging Independent Reserve's local licenses and reputation is a smarter play than trying to go it alone."
"Too little, too late?" questions Marcus Thorne, a vocal crypto skeptic and editor of 'The Traditionalist Investor'. "IG is paying a premium to enter a market past its peak frenzy. This reeks of boardroom FOMO, not a coherent strategy. Shareholders should ask if this capital couldn't have been better spent shoring up their core, struggling CFD business."
"The retention of the existing leadership team is crucial," adds Elara Kostova, a compliance specialist. "It signals respect for the acquired company's culture and operational knowledge, which often gets lost in such takeovers, leading to client attrition."
Source: Adapted from original reporting by Godfrey Benjamin at Coinspeaker.com.