Bithumb, a South Korean exchange, is making headlines with its plans to fast-track its initial public offering as the crypto bull market continues to thrive. The exchange is looking to accelerate its proposed KOSPI listing by spinning off its holdings operations into a separate company named Bithumb Investment.
According to reports, Bithumb Investment will take control of Bithumb’s holdings, investments, and real estate operations, while Bithumb Korea will focus on operating the crypto trading platform. The company plans to divide shares using a 6:4 ratio and will seek shareholder approval at a meeting on May 10. If approved, Bithumb Investment is set to launch on June 13.
Bithumb-related business has been booming in recent months, with the exchange offering commission-free trading to compete with its rival Upbit. The rise in retail Bitcoin trading has also contributed to increased trading volumes in South Korea, a nation known for its enthusiasm for cryptocurrencies.
With the spinoff, Bithumb aims to further increase the possibility of a successful IPO by creating an entity centered on exchange operations. The move is seen as a way to promote efficiency and boost the growth of its exchange operations through separate ownership models.
While Bithumb has its sights set on a 2025 KOSPI debut, the accelerated IPO plans could see the exchange fast-track its listing. Despite challenges such as ongoing court cases and market manipulation probes, the exchange appears determined to distance itself from such matters and focus on the success of its core exchange business.
In comparison to Upbit, Bithumb’s operator Dunamu is considered too large to debut on the KOSPI, while another Upbit-related firm, K Bank, is also looking to launch its own IPO bid. K Bank, a neobank that provides banking services to Upbit customers, has seen significant growth in its user base and is also eyeing a listing on the KOSPI.
As the crypto market continues to experience bullish trends, Bithumb’s accelerated IPO plans come at a crucial time. By focusing on its core exchange business and creating a separate entity for its holdings operations, the exchange is positioning itself for potential success in the public market. Only time will tell if Bithumb will become the first South Korean trading platform to go public, but the current market conditions certainly seem favorable for its aspirations.
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