Crypto: Coinbase Acquires Deribit For 2.9 Billion Dollars

Coinbase strikes hard. The American platform has just announced the acquisition of the giant Deribit for 2.9 billion dollars. This operation redraws the contours of the global crypto derivatives market. It positions Coinbase as a central player in a strategic, rapidly accelerating segment driven by institutional appetite.

Coinbase: a strategic acquisition of 2.9 billion dollars

Coinbase confirms its appetite for expansion. By seizing Deribit, the world’s leading operator of crypto options, the California-based company aims to become the global reference in digital derivatives. The acquisition, structured in cash and shares, amounts to 2.9 billion dollars, including 700 million in cash and 11 million Class A Coinbase shares.

According to Coinbase’s official announcement on the acquisition of Deribit, this operation is part of a global strategy of diversification and upgrading. Based in Panama, Deribit has established itself as a key crypto platform in Bitcoin and Ethereum options. In 2024, its transaction volume exceeded 1,200 billion dollars. This success is based on two factors:

• An advanced technical infrastructure;
• An ability to attract growing institutional flows.

According to the press coverage of the Coinbase–Deribit deal in crypto media, this acquisition would allow Coinbase to fill a strategic gap in its offering and directly compete with other heavyweights like Binance or Kraken.

The geopolitical and regulatory context as a catalyst

The political environment plays a decisive role. The return of a crypto-friendly administration in the United States creates a favorable atmosphere for large-scale operations. In this context, Coinbase anticipates a revival of the U.S. market and is betting on more stable regulation to support its growth. The rise of derivatives products then represents a major wave.

While their integration strengthens the liquidity and sophistication of the crypto market, it also raises challenges. The issue of regulation remains open, particularly for leveraged instruments. By acquiring Deribit, Coinbase faces increased scrutiny but also gains a head start in structuring the ecosystem. This decision could permanently shape the evolution of financial products linked to digital assets.

After launching cbBTC and acquiring Deribit, Coinbase is no longer just an exchange. The company now positions itself as a systemic player in crypto finance. By consolidating the derivatives offering within its ecosystem, it aims to meet institutional investor expectations and open a new growth cycle.