Korea Investment Securities Eyes Stake in Coinone Exchange

Korea Investment Securities, a major South Korean brokerage, is reportedly exploring a stake in Coinone, the country's third-largest cryptocurrency exchange.

According to sources, Korea Investment is lobbying financial regulators and lawmakers to clear the path for the deal. This move comes as part of an unprecedented wave of consolidation reshaping Korea's crypto sector.

The Korbit acquisition by Mirae Asset Group in February may serve as a benchmark for the potential price of the stake. Coinone CEO Cha Myung-hoon currently holds a 53.44% stake in the exchange, but upcoming regulations may cap major shareholder ownership at 15-20%, potentially forcing a reduction.

Industry watchers expect Korea Investment to target around 20% without threatening its control. The deal would add another chapter to the rapid restructuring of Korea's crypto sector, with Naver Financial and Upbit operator Dunamu approved for a merger, Binance receiving final approval to acquire Gopax, and Mirae Asset locking down Korbit.