Skip to content
NewsNomuraKomainuMASSingaporeJapan

Nomura-Backed Komainu to Acquire Singapore-Based Custodian Propine

Komainu is set to acquire Singapore-based custodian, Propine, pending approval from AMS

Table of Contents

Crypto custody firm Komainu is set to acquire Singapore-based custodian, Propine Holdings. Backed by Nomura, Komainu's acquisition is pending approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

In a statement, Komainu noted the acquisition will enhance its presence in Singapore, offering "robust security and bank-grade governance" while adhering to the "highest regulatory standards."

Co-CEO Paul Frost Smith described Singapore as an "important strategic hub" for the firm and added that Propine will enhance Komainu's capabilities "in meeting the significant client demand" it is experiencing.

Komainu is also applying for a Major Payment Institution license in Singapore, which allows the firm to offer full payment services in the city-state.

Talos to Double its APAC Headcount Within Next 12 Months
Talos APCA head, Samar Sen, said that the region offers more “sophisticated trading” than the US and Europe

Komainu co-CEO Robert Johnson added, "At Komainu, we offer bespoke services to our clients and this acquisition will expand the types of solution we can offer as well as the range of assets we support. Our combined infrastructure will further empower institutional clients in confidently navigating the complexities of digital asset custody."

Propine, which holds a Capital Markets Services License from MAS, offers custody services for institutional clients. The company offers Digital Payment Token services under an exemption provided by the Payment Services Act 2019.

Over 50% of Japanese Investment Managers Intend to Invest in Crypto
A new report from Nomura shows that more than half of investment managers in Japan are keen to diversify their portfolios with crypto

"Asia Pacific is central to Komainu’s heritage and having a strong presence in Singapore will enable us to leverage talent across the region as well as better serve our Asia-based clients in their own time zone," Smith said.

Japan remains a key market for Komainu and will act as a significant hub, particularly as it's Nomura's home base. Komainu's funding round is expected to close within the next few weeks, though the amount has not been disclosed.

Latest

BitGo Launches Singapore Subsidiary to Boost APAC Services

BitGo Launches Singapore Subsidiary to Boost APAC Services

With its Major Payment Institution License granted by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in August 2024, BitGo Singapore is positioned as a key player in addressing the region’s growing demand for institutional-grade digital asset infrastructure.