Robinhood expands into the global crypto exchange arena through Bitstamp deal

Trading platform Robinhood is expanding its international reach through the acquisition of Bitstamp, a cryptocurrency exchange operating across the EU, UK, US, and Asia, as the company moves to diversify beyond its US-centric model and into a globally scaled crypto business.

The acquisition introduces an established digital asset platform into Robinhood’s operations. Founded in 2011, Bitstamp holds more than 50 active licenses and registrations and operates offices in Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, Slovenia, Singapore, and the United States. Its services cater to both retail and institutional clients, with a trading infrastructure that includes deep order books and API integration.

The transaction also adds institutional capabilities to Robinhood Crypto. Bitstamp offers crypto-as-a-service, institutional lending, and staking, among other features, and has maintained relationships with institutional clients over its 14-year history. Its core spot exchange product will continue to operate under Robinhood.

Robinhood’s General Manager of Crypto, Johann Kerbrat, said the integration of Bitstamp aligns with the company’s plans to expand outside the US and brings access to a long-standing exchange known for maintaining operations through multiple market cycles.

“By seamlessly coupling customer experience with safety across geographies, the Bitstamp team has established one of the strongest reputations across retail and institutional crypto investors,” said Kerbrat.

Meanwhile, Bitstamp’s CEO, JB Graftieaux, said the platform’s integration with Robinhood will bring continuity in service, security, and compliance standards while maintaining focus on providing users with access to crypto markets through a regulated platform.

“Bringing Bitstamp’s platform and expertise into Robinhood’s ecosystem will give users an enhanced trading experience with a continuing commitment to compliance, security, and customer-centricity,” said Graftieaux

The acquisition also results in Bitstamp’s team joining Robinhood, with both companies stating that users of each platform can expect the same operational consistency.

Robinhood Crypto, LLC is licensed to engage in virtual currency business activity in New York and remains subject to regulatory oversight by the New York State Department of Financial Services.