Deribit, a Leading Options Trading Platform, Explores Strategic Opportunities
Deribit, a popular options trading platform, has recently attracted interest from potential buyers and is currently working with FT Partners to explore strategic opportunities, as reported by Bloomberg News on Jan. 14, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Rapid Rise in Trading Activity
- Deribit’s total trading volume nearly doubled to $1.2 trillion in 2024.
- The platform services institutional clients directly through its Dubai-based entity, Deribit FZE, and manages retail clients through a Panamanian subsidiary.
FT Partners Involvement
Initially retained in early 2023 to arrange secondary stock sales for Deribit’s investors, FT Partners has now expanded its role to assess potential bids for the entire firm.
Potential Acquisition and Valuation
- While Deribit has not officially been put up for sale, the company has acknowledged receiving interest in strategic investments from various parties.
- Kraken has reportedly considered acquiring Deribit but ultimately decided not to proceed.
- One source estimates Deribit’s valuation could range from $4 billion to $5 billion.
Surging M&A Activity in the Crypto Sector
The interest in Deribit comes amidst a surge in crypto-related mergers and acquisitions (M&A), fueled by a post-election rally in digital asset markets.
Recent M&A Deals
- Publicly announced M&A activity in the crypto sector reached $1.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024, a significant increase from $400 million during the same period a year earlier.
- Recent deals include FalconX acquiring derivatives startup Arbelos Markets and acquisitions by MoonPay and Chainalysis.
Positive Industry Outlook
President-elect Donald Trump’s favorable stance toward digital assets has further boosted the industry, with promises to position the US as a global hub for crypto innovation.
With substantial interest from potential buyers and a strong business model, Deribit is well-positioned to play a central role in the next phase of crypto M&A development.
