Nikolas Sargeant
Coinbase is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Deribit, the world’s largest cryptocurrency options exchange for Bitcoin and Ether. The acquisition, if finalized, would strengthen Coinbase’s footprint in the fast-growing crypto derivatives market. According to Bloomberg, the two companies have notified regulators in Dubai about the potential deal, as Deribit holds a license there that would be transferred to any acquirer.
Coinbase is in advanced discussions to acquire crypto derivatives exchange Deribit https://t.co/aA9vmoEybb
— Bloomberg Crypto (@crypto) March 21, 2025
Deribit’s valuation was between $4 billion and $5 billion as of January, and it had been exploring acquisition opportunities after drawing interest from several potential buyers. While Kraken was rumored to be a potential acquirer, sources indicated that Coinbase has been the most serious contender in the talks. However, the deal is still in the early stages, and no official agreement has been reached yet.
This move highlights Coinbase’s continued expansion into the derivatives market, which has been rapidly gaining traction among institutional investors seeking exposure to digital assets through more sophisticated financial products. Following Coinbase’s return to India, the potential acquisition would provide Coinbase with broader market access, bringing new tools for risk management and trade strategies.
Coinbase’s push into derivatives also aligns with its broader strategy to expand its regulated offerings. Recently, Coinbase Derivatives filed with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for approval to launch futures contracts for assets like Cardano (ADA) and Natural Gas, indicating a desire to diversify into both crypto and traditional commodities.
As institutional interest in crypto derivatives grows, Coinbase’s acquisition of Deribit could help solidify its position in the increasingly competitive market while meeting rising demand for regulated and specialized financial products.
