Top US Crypto Exchange Coinbase To Acquire Derivatives Platform Deribit

The largest crypto exchange by trading volume in the US just inked an agreement to acquire the Dubai-based derivatives platform Deribit.

In a statement, Coinbase says the deal costs approximately $2.9 billion, which includes $700 million in cash and 11 million shares of its Class A common stock subject to purchase price adjustments.

“This strategic acquisition significantly advances Coinbase’s derivatives business, establishing us as the premier global platform for crypto derivatives… It’s foundational to our vision of creating the most comprehensive, compliant, and user-friendly derivatives platform globally.”

Deribit is the world’s leading crypto options exchange, with approximately $30 billion in current open interest. Last year, the platform also facilitated over $1 trillion in trading volume across key markets, excluding the US.

Coinbase says acquiring Deribit will make it the world’s leader in crypto derivatives by open interest and options volume, as well as enable it to accelerate its international growth strategy.

“Outside the US, our International Exchange offers spot and perpetual futures products. With Deribit, we will expand our international footprint even further, providing institutional and advanced traders access to robust options markets.”

Reports that the two firms are in the advanced stages of acquisition talks emerged in March.  Coinbase says the transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, but is expected to be completed by the end of the year.