IG Group Expands Cryptocurrency Footprint with Strategic Acquisition of Independent Reserve

IG Group Acquires Majority Stake in Digital Asset Exchange

IG Group, a global leader in online trading platforms, has made a significant move by acquiring a 70% stake in Independent Reserve, one of Australia’s pioneering digital asset exchanges. Valued at AUD 109.6 million (USD 72.4 million or KRW 101.1 billion), this acquisition solidifies IG Group’s position in the rapidly expanding cryptocurrency sector in the Asia-Pacific region.

This strategic investment aligns with IG Group’s broader goal of enhancing its digital asset offerings in key markets, building upon its recent efforts to bolster cryptocurrency operations in the UK and the US. According to a CoinDesk report published October 19, IG Group aims to use this acquisition to gain deeper access to the vibrant regional crypto ecosystems.

Strengthening Presence in Asia-Pacific and Beyond

Matt Macklin, IG Group’s Head for the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, emphasized the importance of Independent Reserve in the Australian market. He described it as one of the oldest digital asset platforms in Australia that operates in full compliance with regulatory requirements. The exchange facilitates trading for 34 cryptocurrencies, catering to customers in Australia and Singapore.

As part of the agreement, IG Group secured an option to acquire the remaining 30% stake, contingent upon Independent Reserve’s performance metrics over the next few years. The transaction awaits regulatory approvals and is anticipated to close by early 2026, with the total deal size estimated at AUD 178 million (USD 117.6 million or KRW 164.2 billion).

Independent Reserve: Positioned for Rapid Growth

Adrian Przelozny, CEO of Independent Reserve, shared his vision for the acquisition, highlighting the partnership’s potential to act as a springboard for growth. He underscored the alignment between IG Group’s objectives and Independent Reserve's mission to provide a secure, fully regulated cryptocurrency trading environment.

This deal immediately positions IG Group as a major player in the Australian and Singaporean cryptocurrency markets, helping the company diversify its regional product offerings and address gaps in its service portfolio.

Exceptional Financial Growth of Independent Reserve

Independent Reserve has demonstrated robust financial performance, with revenue for the fiscal year ending June 2025 hitting USD 23.3 million (KRW 32.5 billion)—an impressive 88% year-over-year increase. The exchange’s user base also showed remarkable growth, with monthly active users rising by 60% to 11,600. Additionally, it manages substantial customer assets totaling USD 1.12 billion (KRW 1.56 trillion) across 129,400 funded accounts.

This financial success underscores Independent Reserve’s potential as a cornerstone in IG Group’s expansion strategy, offering both steady revenue growth and access to high-value crypto markets.

Projected Financial Impact on IG Group

While the acquisition reflects IG Group’s ambitions in regulated cryptocurrency markets, its financial impact is expected to materialize in the fiscal year 2027. The company anticipates positive contributions to its overall financial results, further reinforcing its commitment to the cryptocurrency sector’s long-term growth potential.

Nevertheless, market reactions included a minor downturn in IG Group’s share price, which fell by 1.8% following the announcement.

A Strategic Leap in Cryptocurrency Expansion

By securing a majority stake in Independent Reserve, IG Group is not only reinforcing its presence in Asia-Pacific but also demonstrating its dedication to tapping into the burgeoning cryptocurrency ecosystem. The acquisition highlights the company's focus on regulated digital asset platforms and positions it to capitalize on the significant growth opportunities within the sector.

As this partnership unfolds, IG Group is poised to benefit from Independent Reserve’s operational expertise and established market presence, driving its strategic expansion into one of the most promising regions for cryptocurrency adoption.