Crypto.com has significantly advanced its position in the Australian financial market through the strategic acquisition of Fintek Securities, a locally licensed contracts for differences (CFDs) brokerage. This move grants the global crypto platform an Australian Financial Services (AFS) licence, regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), enabling it to expand its offerings to include deposit products, derivatives, securities, foreign exchange (FX), and managed investment schemes for Australian users.
The acquisition marks a pivotal development in Crypto.com’s international growth strategy, reinforcing its ambition to become a comprehensive financial services hub. By integrating a compliant, locally regulated entity, Crypto.com enhances its ability to serve Australian customers under strict regulatory oversight—aligning with ASIC’s investor protection mandates and Design and Distribution Obligations (DDO).
Expanding Financial Services in a Regulated Market
With the Fintek Securities acquisition, Crypto.com gains direct access to offer a broader suite of financial instruments beyond cryptocurrencies. This includes:
- Derivatives trading (such as CFDs)
- Securities and equities
- Foreign exchange products
- Deposit and managed investment solutions
While the company has confirmed these new capabilities, specific product rollouts and eligibility criteria for Australian users remain undisclosed. Crypto.com emphasized that services will be available only to “eligible users,” though it has not yet clarified what defines eligibility—whether based on income, investment experience, or regulatory classifications.
This cautious approach reflects the heightened scrutiny ASIC applies to financial service providers. In recent years, the regulator has taken enforcement action against platforms offering leveraged products to retail clients without proper risk assessments. Notably, in August 2023, Kraken’s local arm was found to have breached Australian law by offering fiat-based margin trading products without authorization.
For Crypto.com, compliance with DDO rules is essential. These regulations require firms to define a target market for each product and ensure that offerings are distributed appropriately—minimizing risks of mis-selling and protecting retail investors.
Strategic Growth Across Global Markets
The Australia expansion follows closely on the heels of another strategic acquisition in the United States. In October 2024, Crypto.com acquired Watchdog Capital, a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-registered broker-dealer. That deal enabled the platform to offer equities and equity options to qualified traders in the U.S., furthering its vision of becoming a one-stop financial ecosystem.
These moves underscore a clear pattern: rather than relying solely on organic growth or partnerships, Crypto.com is actively acquiring regulated entities to fast-track market entry and compliance. This strategy reduces time-to-market while ensuring adherence to local financial laws—an increasingly critical factor as global regulators tighten oversight on digital asset platforms.
Interestingly, Crypto.com previously secured an Australian financial services licence in late 2020 through the acquisition of The Card Group. However, references to that deal have since been removed from the company’s official communications, raising questions about its current status or operational use.
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A Vision for Unified Financial Services
Kris Marszalek, CEO of Crypto.com, reiterated the company’s long-term vision following the Fintek Securities acquisition:
“The path of our roadmap is to expand our offering ambitiously by providing customers with the most comprehensive set of financial services, and this acquisition is the latest step in that direction. The goal is to create one destination for all financial services where users can simplify their experience and maximise rewards.”
This statement highlights a shift from a crypto-first platform to a full-service financial provider. By blending traditional financial instruments with digital assets, Crypto.com aims to appeal to both crypto-native users and mainstream investors seeking diversification.
Core Keywords:
- Crypto.com Australia
- Fintek Securities acquisition
- ASIC-regulated broker
- CFDs in Australia
- Crypto.com expansion
- Financial services licence
- Derivatives trading platform
- Global fintech growth
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does Crypto.com’s acquisition of Fintek Securities mean for Australian users?
The acquisition allows Crypto.com to legally offer regulated financial products such as CFDs, securities, FX, and managed investments in Australia. While exact product details are pending, this positions the platform to serve a wider range of investor needs under ASIC supervision.
Will all Australian customers have access to the new services?
Not immediately. Crypto.com has stated that new offerings will be available only to “eligible users.” Specific criteria—such as net worth, trading experience, or accreditation status—are expected to be announced prior to launch.
How does this acquisition improve regulatory compliance?
By acquiring an ASIC-licensed entity, Crypto.com operates within Australia’s strict financial framework. This ensures compliance with consumer protection laws, including the Design and Distribution Obligations (DDO), which require firms to match products with suitable investor profiles.
Is Crypto.com now a stock trading platform in Australia?
Effectively, yes. With the ability to offer securities and equities through its newly acquired licence, Crypto.com is poised to enter the traditional investment space alongside its crypto offerings—though official product launches are still forthcoming.
How does this compare to other crypto platforms expanding in Australia?
Platforms like Kraken and Bybit have also sought regulatory clarity in Australia, either through licensing or product adjustments. Crypto.com’s approach—using acquisition to gain immediate regulatory standing—is faster and more controlled than applying for a licence from scratch.
What are the risks involved in offering CFDs and derivatives?
CFDs and leveraged products carry high risk due to price volatility and margin requirements. Regulators like ASIC require robust risk disclosures, suitability assessments, and negative balance protection—measures Crypto.com must implement to remain compliant.
👉 Learn how secure, compliant platforms are reshaping the future of digital finance.
Final Outlook
Crypto.com’s acquisition of Fintek Securities represents more than just market expansion—it signals a strategic pivot toward becoming a holistic financial services provider. By embedding regulated traditional finance products into its ecosystem, the company strengthens its value proposition for users seeking convenience, diversification, and regulatory safety.
As global fintech boundaries blur between crypto and conventional finance, such integrations will likely become standard practice. For Australian investors, this development could mean greater access to innovative financial tools—provided they meet eligibility standards and understand the risks involved.
With regulatory compliance at the core of its strategy, Crypto.com is positioning itself not just as a crypto exchange, but as a trusted gateway to modern finance.