Japanese financial giant SBI Holdings is moving to acquire a controlling stake in Singapore based crypto exchange Coinhako. The proposed deal signals a major push into regulated digital asset markets across Asia.
The transaction is structured as a letter of intent between SBI’s subsidiary, SBI Ventures Asset Pte. Ltd., and Coinhako’s parent company, Holdbuild Pte. Ltd. If approved, SBI will secure a majority shareholding through a mix of new capital injection and purchases of existing shares.
The deal remains subject to regulatory clearance, including approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Strengthening Regulated Crypto Infrastructure
Coinhako operates under a Major Payment Institution license granted by MAS. The exchange serves both retail and institutional clients across Southeast Asia. Therefore, the acquisition would give SBI a strong foothold in one of Asia’s most regulated crypto hubs.
SBI Chairman and CEO Yoshitaka Kitao described the move as part of a broader strategy. He aims to build international digital asset infrastructure, including tokenized securities and stablecoin services.
Furthermore, bringing Coinhako into the SBI Group would support cross border digital finance initiatives. SBI has steadily expanded its blockchain investments, and this deal strengthens that long term roadmap.
Institutional Growth and Liquidity Expansion
Industry analysts view the acquisition as strategically timed. Coinhako has reported strong institutional trading volume and growing custody assets. A majority of its trading activity reportedly comes from professional investors.
With SBI’s backing, Coinhako could scale:
- Institutional crypto trading services
- Over the counter liquidity desks
- Regulated token and stablecoin offerings
Both companies are now working through regulatory approvals and final deal terms. If completed, the acquisition would deepen SBI’s presence in Asia’s regulated crypto ecosystem and reinforce Singapore’s status as a leading digital asset hub.
