UK-based trading giant IG Group is making a bold move into crypto with the acquisition of a 70% stake in Australian exchange Independent Reserve. The deal, worth up to $117 million, gives IG direct access to two of the region’s most regulated and strategically important markets: Australia and Singapore.
Founded in 2013, Independent Reserve has become one of Australia’s most trusted platforms, supporting 34 digital assets and holding more than $1.1 billion in customer assets under custody. The exchange reported 88% revenue growth in FY25, reaching $23.9 million, with monthly active users climbing 60% to over 11,600.
Under the terms of the acquisition, Independent Reserve will continue to operate under its own brand and leadership, while leveraging IG’s global infrastructure to accelerate growth. Completion is expected in early 2026, pending regulatory approval.
This acquisition builds on IG’s broader digital asset strategy, following recent expansions in the UK and US. With this step, IG isn’t just buying technology—it’s buying trust, regulation, and a loyal user base, signaling that traditional financial institutions are going all-in on crypto.