Coinbase Set to Acquire BVNK for Nearly $2 Billion to Boost Payments

Coinbase is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire London-based startup BVNK, which specializes in stablecoin infrastructure, in a deal valued at nearly $2 billion. The acquisition is expected to finalize by early 2026, marking a significant move for the cryptocurrency exchange as it seeks to diversify its services beyond trading fees and enhance its digital payments capabilities.

The potential agreement remains under negotiation and subject to change. Coinbase Ventures, the investment arm of Coinbase, is already a backer of BVNK, indicating a strategic interest in the startup. If completed, this acquisition would represent one of Coinbase’s largest initiatives since going public in 2021.

Expanding Beyond Trading

As trading volumes fluctuate with market conditions, Coinbase has been actively working to establish a more comprehensive financial ecosystem. Currently, stablecoins comprise nearly 20 percent of its total revenue, generating approximately $246 million in the third quarter of 2025 through partnerships with Circle, the issuer of the widely-used USDC token.

The acquisition of BVNK would further solidify Coinbase’s focus on stablecoins. By integrating BVNK’s advanced payment and settlement technology, the company could provide merchants and financial institutions with faster and more cost-effective fund transfers across blockchain networks. This aligns with Coinbase’s strategy to bridge traditional finance with digital assets.

Earlier this year, Coinbase also explored potential collaborations with Mastercard to develop similar initiatives, reflecting a broader industry shift toward stablecoin-powered payment systems.

BVNK’s Role in the Payments Landscape

Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur Jesse Hemson-Struthers, who has a history of successful exits including to Naspers and Sportradar, BVNK has quickly become a key player in the stablecoin space. Alongside Hemson-Struthers, the company was established by seasoned technologist Donald Jackson and financial analyst Chris Harmse, both of whom bring significant expertise to the firm.

BVNK specializes in enabling institutions and fintech companies to process payments using dollar-backed stablecoins. The company’s platform combines the efficiency of blockchain technology with regulatory compliance, offering a reliable channel for global fund transfers. Notable investors such as Citi Ventures, Visa, and Haun Ventures have backed BVNK’s vision of simplifying cross-border finance through digital currencies.

Acquiring BVNK would allow Coinbase to bring these capabilities in-house, giving it direct control over settlement tools and enabling expansion into European markets. This integration could enhance Coinbase’s existing wallet and on-ramp products, potentially opening new avenues in regions such as the UK and the EU.

Regulatory Developments and Future Prospects

The timing of this acquisition is particularly favorable, as the recent passage of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act has clarified the operational framework for stablecoins under federal oversight. This regulatory milestone has encouraged traditional financial institutions to explore blockchain-based payment solutions.

Analysts view the GENIUS Act as a potential catalyst for renewed investment and consolidation within the cryptocurrency sector. For Coinbase, this legislative shift represents a prime opportunity to position stablecoins as central to its long-term growth strategy. Should the BVNK acquisition proceed, it could mark a pivotal step in transforming digital dollars into mainstream payment instruments.