Korea Investment & Securities Eyes Crypto Exchange Stake

South Korean brokerage Korea Investment & Securities is reportedly reviewing a potential investment in crypto exchange Coinone, according to local media and company statements. No final agreement has been reached. The firm previously offered contracts for difference but scaled back and suspended the product following increased regulatory scrutiny after the 2023 CFD stock manipulation scandal. It has since focused on listed products and global investment services.  

The Korea Herald reported the brokerage has engaged with regulators and politicians as part of a potential investment process. The report coincides with a South Korean proposal to cap major shareholders' stakes in domestic crypto exchanges at 20%. Coinone's controlling shareholder, Cha Myung-hoon, reportedly holds about 53.44%, making a stake sale one potential route to compliance.  

This move follows a broader trend of traditional finance entering digital assets. Earlier this year, Mirae Asset Group acquired crypto exchange Korbit for $92 million. Korea Investment & Securities reported a net profit of over $1.3 billion in 2025, indicating significant financial capacity for such an investment.