IG Completes Acquisition of Crypto Exchange Independent Reserve

Trading firm IG has successfully acquired Independent Reserve, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange in Australia, marking a significant step in the broker's expansion into digital assets throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Key Takeaways:

IG has finalized the acquisition of Independent Reserve to enhance its cryptocurrency presence in the Asia-Pacific market.
This acquisition introduces regulated crypto infrastructure and expert resources to IG's platform.
IG is set to launch new cryptocurrency services across Singapore, Australia, and the UAE in 2026.

This transaction was completed after receiving the necessary regulatory approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore, as reported in a blog post on Monday.

IG believes the acquisition will fast-track its growth in crypto markets and integrate a team of skilled, crypto-focused professionals, especially as the interest in digital asset trading continues to grow.

IG Expands with Independent Reserve’s Regulated Crypto Framework

Established in 2013, Independent Reserve is well-regarded as a regulated platform catering to both retail and institutional traders. The exchange operates across several key markets with a strong emphasis on compliance, security, and market infrastructure.

IG intends to incorporate Independent Reserve’s technology and expertise to bolster its position in the cryptocurrency sector, while upholding the regulatory standards typical of a global trading firm.

As part of its strategy, IG plans to introduce a new crypto offering for its clients in Singapore, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates in the latter half of 2026. This launch will be supported by Independent Reserve’s existing technology, enabling IG to scale its crypto services more efficiently across various jurisdictions.

Matt Macklin, IG’s Managing Director for Asia Pacific and the Middle East, stated that the acquisition positions the firm well to cater to the growing client demand for digital assets. He also noted that merging IG’s market reach with Independent Reserve’s expertise creates a powerful platform for serving traders across the region.

Adrian Przelozny, CEO and co-founder of Independent Reserve, described the acquisition as a milestone for the exchange, highlighting the enhanced reach and resources it gains by joining a larger global group. “By combining our crypto knowledge with IG’s scale across APAC and the Middle East, we can expedite our mission to provide trusted, regulated crypto trading to a broader audience,” he remarked.

IG, based in the UK and listed on the London Stock Exchange, grants access to nearly 19,000 financial markets globally and has established itself as a leading player in online trading. The acquisition was initially announced in September 2025 and was estimated to be worth A$178 million ($117 million), according to Reuters.

As per the report, IG was anticipated to initially acquire 70% of the Australian-based company, with an option to purchase the remaining 30% contingent on the financial performance in the years 2027 and 2028.

IG Becomes the First UK-Listed Firm to Provide Crypto Trading to Retail Investors

In June, IG Group made history by becoming the first UK-listed company to allow retail investors in the UK to trade cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, XRP, and 35 other tokens. Under this new offering, retail clients can trade 38 cryptocurrencies through a collaboration with the crypto platform Uphold.

Uphold will manage the custody of these assets; however, it’s important to note that these holdings won’t be covered by the UK’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme.