Trump-Driven Crypto Boom: $8.2 Billion in New Deals

A new wave of mega cryptocurrency deals has begun, totalling $8.2 billion since 2025, driven by a friendlier regulatory environment following Trump’s return to the White House. Major transactions include Twenty One Capital’s planned SPAC merger and Ripple’s acquisition of Hidden Road. After a tough few years in the wake of FTX’s collapse, optimism is returning as companies seek growth through acquisitions.

The recent shift towards cryptocurrency-friendly policies in Washington has sparked a significant surge in digital asset deals, with the total reaching a staggering $8.2 billion since January 2025. The Wall Street Journal reported on this trend, pointing out that crypto firms are seizing the moment as U.S. regulations loosen and mainstream interest grows. This uptick follows several billion-dollar mergers appearing in a short span, marking a notable return to growth for the sector after recent declines.

A highlight among the new ventures is Twenty One Capital, a bitcoin business aiming for a public listing via a $3.6 billion merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) led by Brandon Lutnick. It’s worth mentioning this is just one of three crypto deals exceeding the $1 billion mark since late March, signaling a rebound of sorts. On top of that, Ripple’s acquisition of prime broker Hidden Road for $1.25 billion and Kraken’s $1.5 billion deal for futures broker NinjaTrader showcase the aggressive moves firms are making.

Cumulatively, these 88 deals represent a massive leap from the mere value of 188 transactions throughout the entirety of 2024, almost three times as high, according to data shared by advisory group Architect Partners. Founder Eric Risley noted, “There’s optimism that finally things changed,” as traditional players in the crypto realm appear keen to expand again through acquisitions after a tough couple of years.

The crypto scene faced hurdles following the spectacular collapse of the FTX exchange, which introduced heavier scrutiny and regulatory layers. However, since former President Trump’s return, the tone in Washington seems to be shifting. He’s appointed regulators who are more sympathetic to the crypto cause, and the Republican-controlled Congress is drafting new legislation aimed at establishing a clearer regulatory framework for digital assets.

Notably, Trump has chosen Paul Atkins as SEC Chairman, a figure who openly criticised the previous administration’s regulatory approaches. At a recent meeting of the SEC’s Crypto Task Force, Atkins highlighted how market and regulatory uncertainties have hindered innovation, echoing sentiments resonating through the crypto community: it’s about time for a change ditching the obstacles that have plagued the sector for years.