IG Group Acquires Independent Reserve in $117M Deal to Expand APAC Footprint

 IG Group Acquires Independent Reserve in $117M Deal to Expand APAC Footprint

British trading powerhouse IG Group announced the acquisition of Independent Reserve, one of Australia’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, for A$178 million (~US$117.4 million). The move signals IG’s determination to strengthen its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, one of the fastest-growing markets for digital assets.

Independent Reserve, founded in 2013, has become a trusted name in Australia, offering services to both retail and institutional investors. It operates under Australia’s strict financial regulations, which has earned it a reputation for security and compliance—a rare advantage in a global industry often criticized for regulatory uncertainty.

IG Group said the acquisition would immediately enhance its crypto offering and complement its broader portfolio of trading services, from forex to equities. Executives also noted that the deal is expected to be cash earnings-accretive in the first year, meaning it should start adding to profits almost immediately.

Industry analysts view the purchase as part of a larger trend: traditional financial institutions moving deeper into crypto infrastructure rather than ignoring it. By acquiring rather than building, IG Group gains instant market share, expertise, and a user base in a region where crypto adoption is rising quickly.

The deal may also inspire other established brokers to make similar moves, as competition for regulated exchanges intensifies globally. For Independent Reserve, the acquisition means more resources, more reach, and the backing of a major global brand—positioning it as a stronger contender in the crowded exchange landscape.