SBI Holdings Acquires Majority Stake in Coinhako to Expand Crypto Operations in Singapore

SBI Holdings Acquires Majority Stake in Coinhako

SBI Holdings has successfully acquired a majority stake in Coinhako, a Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange, after securing regulatory approval on July 16, 2026. This acquisition marks SBI’s strategic expansion into the Southeast Asian crypto market.

Regulatory Approval and Strategic Importance

The deal received approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which is crucial for SBI’s plans to enhance its digital asset services in the region. Coinhako’s established regulatory status and operational footprint in Singapore are significant as the country is recognized for its robust digital asset regulations.

Investment Details and Future Plans

SBI Holdings did not disclose specific financial details about the investment or the percentage of shares acquired. The transaction involved both a capital injection through SBI Ventures Asset Pte. Ltd. and the purchase of shares from Coinhako’s existing investors. With this acquisition, Coinhako will operate as a consolidated subsidiary of SBI Holdings, allowing the Japanese financial giant to leverage Coinhako’s customer base and regional networks.

Enhancing Crypto Services Across Borders

SBI Holdings Chairman and President Yoshitaka Kitao emphasized that this acquisition is a critical step in connecting cryptocurrency exchanges across different countries, enabling investors to trade beyond national boundaries. He noted that Coinhako’s local presence and regulatory compliance were pivotal to SBI’s decision.

Plans for New Services

Through Coinhako, SBI intends to introduce various new services focused on stablecoins, tokenized assets, and cross-border trading. The acquisition also aligns with SBI’s ongoing development of its yen-backed stablecoin, JPYSC, and partnerships aimed at delivering innovative tokenized financial products.

Coinhako’s Growth and Future Prospects

Coinhako, established in 2014, holds a Major Payment Institution license from MAS, with its affiliate, Alpha Hako Ltd., registered as a virtual asset service provider under the British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission. Coinhako co-founder and CEO Yusho Liu described the acquisition as a natural progression for the company after operating in Singapore for a decade, noting it positions Coinhako for significant growth within a larger financial group.

Conclusion

SBI Holdings’ acquisition of Coinhako represents a significant move in the cryptocurrency landscape, enhancing the firm’s capabilities in regulated markets and broadening its service offerings in Southeast Asia.