Paribu Acquires Majority Stake in CoinMENA in Landmark Cross-Border Crypto Deal

2025-12-05 14:15:45

Abstract generation in progress

Istanbul, December 5, 2025 – Turkish cryptocurrency exchange Paribu has acquired a majority stake in CoinMENA, a digital-asset platform based in Bahrain and Dubai. The deal, which values CoinMENA at up to USD 240 million, marks Turkey’s largest fintech transaction and its first international crypto acquisition.

Expanding Across Borders

Paribu’s acquisition gives the exchange access to CoinMENA’s regulatory licenses under the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). This move extends Paribu’s regulated operations beyond Turkey, enabling it to enter one of the most crypto-friendly markets in the world.

CoinMENA, founded in 2019 in Manama, has raised about USD 9.5 million in seed funding. The exchange offers spot and OTC trading, supports multiple local currencies, and serves both retail and institutional investors across the MENA region.

Strengthening Regional Presence

Paribu’s CEO, Yasin Oral, called the deal a turning point for the company. He stated that combining Paribu’s technology and compliance standards with CoinMENA’s regional experience will accelerate the company’s mission to become a leading crypto infrastructure provider.

Recent moves by Paribu, including investments in institutional custody and media ventures, signal its broader ambition to grow beyond Turkey’s borders. By leveraging CoinMENA’s licenses and market reach, Paribu is set to become one of the few regulated, multi-jurisdictional crypto exchanges in the region.

This acquisition highlights a growing consolidation trend in the global crypto industry, where regional exchanges join forces to enhance compliance, scale operations, and increase market access. Analysts believe the partnership could boost crypto adoption in the MENA region by offering users more accessible and regulated digital-asset services.

For Paribu, this strategic acquisition represents more than expansion—it positions the company as a key player in shaping the future of cross-border crypto infrastructure.

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.