Robinhood Markets has announced plans to acquire Indonesian brokerage PT Buana Capital Sekuritas and licensed digital asset trader PT Pedagang Aset Kripto, marking its entry into Southeast Asia’s largest and fastest-growing cryptocurrency market.
The deal positions Robinhood to serve Indonesia’s more than 19 million Capital investors and 17 million cryptocurrency traders. The transactions require approval from the Indonesian Financial Services Authority and are expected to close in the first half of 2026.
Strategic entry into high growth market
California-based Robinhood is targeting Indonesia thanks to its young, tech-savvy population and favorable regulatory environment. Robinhood's official announcement highlights the country's strong growth potential. The deals come after Robinhood recently established a regional headquarters in Singapore and licensed its cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp there.
Indonesia’s evolving regulatory framework now supports digital asset trading. By Q3 2025, the Financial Services Authority had licensed 28 companies involved in cryptocurrency trading, including a regulated cryptocurrency exchange and infrastructure providers. The regulatory clarity encourages international companies to seek legal entry into the market.
By acquiring already-established local businesses, Robinhood benefits from streamlined regulatory compliance and quick market access. PT Buana Capital Sekuritas provides brokerage services, while PT Pedagang Aset Kripto provides access to cryptocurrency trading . Pieter Tanuri, the majority owner of both companies and known for his work with the Bali United football club, will continue to be involved as a strategic advisor.
Steve Quirk, Robinhood's head of brokerage services, Chia the company is committed to expanding financial inclusion. He said on social media that they want to empower more people in the financial system.
Service integration and expansion
Robinhood plans to maintain existing services for Buana Capital customers and will gradually roll out a broader product portfolio. The initial launch will include local Indonesian products, followed by access to US stocks and cryptocurrencies , allowing the company to serve existing customers while introducing new products in stages.
The move comes as Robinhood continues to grow globally, with the platform now serving about 27 million users and seeing its stock rise nearly 268% by 2025, signaling investor confidence in its expansion strategy.
Robinhood was added to the S&P 500 index this year, a milestone in its profile. The company continues to face challenges, including a $45 million fine in the US for a data breach in 2021 and ongoing discussions with UK regulators about a possible market entry.
Pieter Tanuri, the majority owner of both Indonesian companies and known for leading Bali United to become the first listed football club in Southeast Asia, will continue to serve as a strategic advisor to Robinhood following the acquisitions.
Financial terms of the Indonesian deals were not disclosed. The deals are still awaiting review by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), which will determine whether Robinhood meets Indonesia's standards for financial services and digital assets .
Market impact and competitive landscape
Indonesia has become a leading cryptocurrency hub in Southeast Asia thanks to supportive regulations and high levels of digital participation. The country’s expanding market is now attracting international companies looking for growth in new areas. Robinhood’s arrival adds to the competition for both local and regional companies.
The dual acquisition approach gives Robinhood an advantage in both traditional securities and digital assets. Holding licenses in both areas allows the company to offer a wide range of investment services.
Investors welcomed the news, with Robinhood shares rising 1.17% following the announcement, reflecting optimism about the company’s ability to gain market share in Indonesia’s promising environment.
The move in Indonesia comes after Robinhood announced last year it would set up a regional headquarters in Singapore, where it is still awaiting approval for brokerage operations. The company has also been in discussions with regulators in the UK as part of its global expansion strategy.
