FalconX's Strategic Acquisition of 21shares Marks a New Era in Digital Asset Trading

FalconX Completes Acquisition of 21shares

FalconX, a prominent player in the institutional digital asset space, has confirmed the successful acquisition of 21shares, a leading provider of cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs). This strategic move is designed to combine capabilities in digital asset trading, asset management, and market infrastructure, reinforcing FalconX's ambitions of leading the market on a global scale.

As announced by Raghu Yarlagadda, CEO of FalconX, this acquisition is a game-changer, providing the company with enhanced product offerings and the ability to bridge traditional and decentralized finance systems. Yarlagadda stated that “this acquisition enhances FalconX's product and structuring capabilities and reinforces our position as a global financial leader.” By merging FalconX's institutional trading prowess with 21shares' established track record in ETPs, the partnership promises to unlock new avenues for innovation and accessibility in the world of digital assets.

21shares, notable for launching one of the first physically-backed cryptocurrency ETPs in Europe back in 2018, has continuously been at the forefront of product innovation. According to Russell Barlow, CEO of 21shares, the new alliance with FalconX will significantly enhance service delivery and broaden the scope of products available to clients across various jurisdictions. He expressed confidence that this merger will strengthen both companies' values and crypto-focused missions.

The operational structure post-acquisition indicates that 21shares will retain its independent management while functioning under the FalconX umbrella. Mr. Barlow remains at the helm of 21shares, collaborating closely with FalconX's leadership to pursue a common vision for the digital assets ecosystem.

This acquisition is part of a broader strategy for FalconX, which recently acquired Arbelos Markets, a trading firm specializing in cryptocurrency derivatives. Such efforts are aimed at reinforcing FalconX's growing prominence in the crypto derivatives market and enhancing its portfolio to benefit clients seeking varied strategies in the digital finance landscape.

In June 2025, FalconX further diversified its holdings with a majority investment in Monarq Asset Management, allowing it to expand actively managed digital asset strategies. This series of strategic acquisitions underscores FalconX's commitment to shaping the future of finance, effectively enhancing seamless access to cryptocurrencies on a global scale.

FalconX continues to excel as a digital asset prime brokerage, offering a comprehensive suite of services to institutions globally. With a 24/7 support team ready to assist with trading and operational needs, FalconX seeks to empower investors to navigate the complexities of digital markets around the clock.

With the backing of top investors, including Accel, American Express Ventures, and Lightspeed Venture Partners, FalconX's international footprint spans key financial hubs, including Silicon Valley, New York, London, and Singapore. This global presence positions them to capitalize on the ever-growing interest in cryptocurrency and digital assets.

In conclusion, FalconX's acquisition of 21shares is not only a strategic business decision but also a significant step towards unifying traditional and digital financial ecosystems. As both companies work hand-in-hand to innovate in the realm of digital assets, this acquisition could very well set the stage for broader adoption and a transformative experience for investors worldwide.