IG Group is making its boldest move yet into crypto by targeting Asia-Pacific.
The London-based trading firm has struck an agreement to acquire Independent Reserve, a leading Australian exchange, in a transaction that could eventually exceed $117 million once performance milestones are included.
The deal comes after a year in which Independent Reserve nearly doubled revenue, serving more than 11,000 active traders each month and recording rapid growth in both Australia and Singapore. With 34 digital assets listed and a track record of regulatory compliance, the exchange gives IG a ready-made foothold in two of the most important markets outside North America and Europe.
Filling the Missing Piece
Until now, IG’s crypto push has largely focused on Western customers. Its UK partnership with Uphold in May made it the first London-listed company to offer retail digital asset trading, while its U.S. arm Tastytrade recently expanded its token lineup and added stablecoin deposits. What IG lacked, however, was an established presence in Asia — a gap this deal is designed to close.
Matt Macklin, IG’s head of Asia Pacific and the Middle East, framed the acquisition as more than just geographic diversification. “Independent Reserve combines strong leadership, robust technology, and regulatory credibility,” he said, calling it a cornerstone for IG’s longer-term digital asset ambitions.
A Staged Takeover
Under the agreement, IG will purchase 70% of Independent Reserve for $72 million, with the price rising to $82 million if 2026 targets are met. The group also holds an option to acquire the remaining 30% depending on the exchange’s performance in 2027 and 2028. Regulators in Singapore and Australia still need to sign off, with closing expected in early 2026.
Unlike many mergers where brands vanish, Independent Reserve will initially retain its name and management team, a sign IG intends to let local expertise guide expansion. CEO Adrian Przelozny said joining IG provides the resources needed to scale. “Our mission to deliver secure, regulated trading aligns perfectly with IG’s global vision,” he explained.
Why It Matters
For IG, the acquisition is a chance to embed itself in two fast-growing hubs where institutional and retail interest in crypto is rising. For Independent Reserve, it’s a springboard into broader markets under the umbrella of a global financial powerhouse.
The move also underscores a trend: established trading giants are no longer treating crypto as an experiment but as an integral part of their long-term strategy. If regulators give the green light, IG’s bet on Australia and Singapore could become the template for further expansion across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Alex is an experienced financial journalist and cryptocurrency enthusiast. With over 8 years of experience covering the crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries, he is well-versed in the complex and ever-evolving world of digital assets. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. His approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible and in-depth content. Follow his publications to stay up to date with the most important trends and topics.
Source: https://coindoo.com/ig-group-bets-big-on-crypto-with-117m-independent-reserve-purchase/