IG Group Completes Acquisition of Crypto Exchange Independent Reserve

IG Group Holdings announced that it has completed its acquisition of cryptocurrency exchange Independent Reserve following regulatory approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

The transaction, which was announced in September 2025, closed on Jan. 30. IG Group did not disclose financial terms of the deal.

The London-based online trading platform said in a statement that it plans to launch cryptocurrency trading services in Singapore, Australia and the United Arab Emirates in the second half of 2026 using Independent Reserve's technology and infrastructure.

"This acquisition strengthens our crypto capabilities and positions us to meet growing customer demand across APAC and the Middle East," said Matt Macklin, managing director for Asia Pacific and Middle East at IG Group.

Independent Reserve, founded in Sydney, is the first digital asset exchange licensed by the MAS, and also operates an exchange in Australia. The company will be integrated into IG Group's operations while maintaining its existing regulatory licenses and customer services, the companies said.

Adrian Przelozny, chief executive and co-founder of Independent Reserve, said the acquisition would allow the company to expand its reach using IG Group's customer base and regional infrastructure.

"Combining our crypto expertise with IG's scale across APAC and the Middle East accelerates our mission to bring trusted, regulated crypto trading to a wider audience," Przelozny said.

IG Group operates online trading platforms for contracts for difference, spread betting, and other derivatives. The company is regulated in multiple jurisdictions and serves retail and institutional clients globally.

The acquisition represents IG Group's entry into direct cryptocurrency trading services. The company previously offered cryptocurrency exposure through contracts for difference but did not operate spot cryptocurrency exchanges.