Trump Policies Boost Confidence in Crypto Market as Swyftx Expands to New Zealand
Australian crypto broker Swyftx is acquiring New Zealand's crypto exchange Easy Crypto, with company leaders pointing to positive policy changes in the United States as a factor in their decision. The acquisition, set to complete on March 31, comes as industry executives anticipate more favorable regulatory conditions.
Swyftx CEO Jason Titman expressed optimism about the deal in a March 19 statement, noting that "Trump's policy messaging around crypto as a tailwind" helped support this acquisition. While the deal was in process before the recent US election, Titman believes the industry is now approaching "sensible regulation in the US."
"Everyone is so focused on tariffs that they're skipping the argument that good things are on the horizon for crypto," Titman said. He added, "The environment for dealmaking is about to improve exponentially, and there is no question that money will move. This deal may be the first, but it won't be the last."
Following Trump's January 20 inauguration, changes in the crypto landscape have already begun with pro-crypto executives taking key regulatory positions. Titman explained that the crypto industry experienced slow merger and acquisition activity in recent years as CEOs were reluctant to accept regulatory risks during the previous administration.
The companies will initially operate as separate platforms while planning their integration. The combined business will employ nearly 200 workers based in Brisbane, Australia. Janine Grainger, Easy Crypto's co-founder and CEO, described the acquisition as a "natural fit" that would create a major regional player in cryptocurrency.
Crypto adoption in both countries shows promising growth:
- 3.9 million Australians own crypto (from a 26 million population)
- Nearly 50% of New Zealand's 5.2 million people either own crypto or plan to invest
- For comparison, only about 18 million Americans use or own crypto according to US Fed estimates
Grainger noted strong local support for cryptocurrency in New Zealand, with increasing regulation that will help build trust. "The region is undergoing increasing levels of regulation, which will help to drive trust, much like other regions," she said.
