Crypto.com Expands U.S. Presence with Watchdog Capital Acquisition Amid SEC Legal Battle
Crypto.com is making significant strides in expanding its U.S. operations with the acquisition of Watchdog Capital LLC, a broker-dealer registered with the SEC.
This strategic move will enable Crypto.com to offer American customers access to stocks and options trading, effectively integrating traditional financial products with its cryptocurrency services. CEO Kris Marszalek highlighted the company’s ambition, announcing plans to launch stock trading before the end of the year.
This initiative aligns with other recent milestones, including the introduction of CFTC-regulated UpDown Options and a partnership with PayPal, further diversifying the platform’s offerings.
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This acquisition comes at a critical time, as Crypto.com is currently engaged in a legal battle against the SEC. The exchange contends that the regulator is overstepping its jurisdiction by categorizing most digital assets as investment contracts.
By joining forces with Watchdog Capital, Crypto.com positions itself alongside other Web3 companies, such as Ripple Labs, that are also challenging the SEC’s regulatory authority.
These developments signal a pivotal moment in the industry, as firms navigate complex regulatory landscapes while actively pursuing growth opportunities in both traditional and digital financial markets.