SBI Holdings Eyes Dominant Position with Bitbank Acquisition

SBI Holdings' latest move in the Japanese cryptocurrency market has sent shockwaves through the industry. The financial giant has announced its intention to acquire Bitbank, Japan's third-largest cryptocurrency exchange, as a consolidated subsidiary. This strategic move is aimed at creating the country's largest crypto platform group by combining Bitbank with SBI VC Trade and the former Bitpoint Japan.

The acquisition comes on the heels of SBI's April 2026 merger that absorbed Bitpoint Japan through SBI VC Trade. With this deal, SBI will gain control over three major exchanges operating under one financial umbrella, solidifying its position in the Japanese crypto market.

SBI Chairman and President Yoshitaka Kitao stated that welcoming Bitbank into the group will help establish a dominant position in Japan's crypto industry. The acquisition is expected to maximize synergies within the group after it closes, with SBI planning to acquire Bitbank shares following due diligence and internal procedures.