Robinhood Acquires Bitstamp for $200 Million to Expand Global Crypto Reach

Robinhood has finalized its acquisition of Bitstamp, the world’s longest-running crypto exchange, for $200 million, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy. The deal, first revealed in June 2024, closed in the first half of 2025 after meeting regulatory approvals and customary conditions. By integrating Bitstamp’s established platform, Robinhood aims to strengthen its cryptocurrency offerings and extend its footprint beyond the United States. The acquisition also introduces Robinhood to institutional crypto clients, a new segment for the popular trading app known for its stock and crypto trading services.

Bitstamp, founded in 2011 as a European alternative to the now-defunct Mt. Gox, brings a robust legacy to Robinhood. With over 85 tradable assets and more than 50 global licenses, Bitstamp serves retail customers across the EU, UK, US, and Asia. Its reputation for reliability, deep liquidity, and strong API access has earned it trust among institutional investors. Robinhood’s acquisition integrates Bitstamp’s spot exchange and services like institutional lending and staking, enhancing its global crypto portfolio.

Johann Kerbrat, General Manager of Robinhood Crypto, emphasized the strategic importance of the deal. He noted that Bitstamp’s resilience through market cycles and its strong reputation among retail and institutional investors align with Robinhood’s goals. The acquisition allows Robinhood to couple its customer-focused experience with Bitstamp’s safety and compliance standards. This combination positions Robinhood to compete more effectively with crypto giants like Coinbase and Gemini while expanding its global presence.

Strategic Benefits and Future Growth

The acquisition brings Bitstamp’s existing team under Robinhood’s umbrella, fostering collaboration and innovation while retaining Bitstamp’s brand as “Bitstamp by Robinhood” for now. JB Graftieaux, CEO of Bitstamp, highlighted the enhanced trading experience this partnership offers, emphasizing continued commitment to compliance and security. The deal also marks Robinhood’s entry into the institutional crypto market, a significant milestone for the platform. Barclays Capital Inc. advised Robinhood, while Galaxy Digital Partners LLC served as Bitstamp’s exclusive financial advisor.

Robinhood’s aggressive push into crypto reflects its broader vision of building a global financial ecosystem. The platform aims to integrate equities, crypto, tokenized securities, stablecoins, and prediction markets, leveraging blockchain for efficiency. Crypto trading is a growing revenue driver for Robinhood, and Bitstamp’s established infrastructure accelerates its ability to challenge industry incumbents. The acquisition strengthens Robinhood’s offerings in key markets like the EU and Asia, where Bitstamp has a strong foothold.

This move comes as Robinhood seeks to diversify its services and capture a larger share of the global crypto market. Bitstamp’s 14-year track record and institutional trust provide a solid foundation for Robinhood to scale its operations. The deal also aligns with Robinhood’s customer-centric approach, combining Bitstamp’s robust products with Robinhood’s seamless user experience. As the crypto sector continues to evolve, Robinhood’s acquisition of Bitstamp positions it as a formidable player in the crypto market.