IG Group Sells Small Exchange to Kraken for $100M

IG Group Sells Small Exchange to Kraken in $100M Deal

IG Group has agreed to sell its stake in the US-based Small Exchange to crypto firm Kraken in a deal valuing the platform at $100 million (£74.9 million). The purchase includes $32.5 million in cash and $67.5 million in Payward (Krakens parent company) stock. IG reported a post-tax gain of £73.3 million and a £22.7 million boost to its regulatory capital resources.

As part of the transaction, IG will enter a partnership with Kraken to help distribute Small Exchanges products. The Chicago-based Small Exchange operates as a designated contract market registered with the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The sale comes amid IG‘s ongoing expansion in the digital assets sector. Last month, the London-listed broker announced its planned acquisition of Australian crypto exchange Independent Reserve, expected to close in early 2026. IG also recently secured a cryptoasset licence from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority, paving the way for wider crypto services to UK clients.

About IG Group

IG Group Holdings plc is a London-based global online trading provider offering access to financial markets through contracts for difference (CFDs), forex, and derivatives. With operations in over 20 countries, the firm is expanding its fintech and crypto capabilities to serve evolving investor needs.

About Kraken

Kraken, founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a leading global digital asset exchange offering spot and futures trading across numerous crypto pairs. Known for its strong regulatory standing and institutional focus, Kraken continues to grow through strategic acquisitions and infrastructure expansion.