Ripple Seeks Australian Financial Services License Through Planned BC Payments Acquisition

Blockchain payments company Ripple is planning to expand its regulatory presence in the Asia-Pacific region through the proposed acquisition of BC Payments Australia, a move that would give the firm access to an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL).

Rather than applying for a new license directly, Ripple intends to obtain the authorization by acquiring BC Payments Australia, which already holds the AFSL. If completed, the transaction would allow the company to provide regulated financial services within Australia's financial framework.

Fiona Murray, Ripple's Managing Director for Asia Pacific, said licensing remains a central element of the company's global strategy. "Licensing is fundamental to Ripple's strategy, ensuring we can deliver secure, compliant solutions to customers worldwide," she said.

Murray added that Australia represents an important market for the firm's regional growth. "Australia is a key market for Ripple, and an AFSL strengthens our ability to scale Ripple Payments across the region while enabling customers to move value globally with greater speed, transparency, and reliability," she said.

The license would support the expansion of Ripple's payments platform in the Australian market. The system combines digital asset technology with traditional financial infrastructure to facilitate cross-border transactions, integrating compliance processes, foreign exchange, liquidity sourcing, and settlement into a single framework.

According to the company, the structure allows for more direct oversight of settlement and transaction routing while reducing reliance on multiple intermediaries.

The proposed acquisition reflects Ripple's broader strategy to expand its presence across Asia-Pacific, where demand for blockchain-based payment systems has grown. The company reported that its regional payments activity saw strong growth in 2025, with transaction volumes nearly doubling compared with the previous year.

Australia is considered a key market for that expansion due to its established financial sector and active fintech ecosystem. Securing an AFSL could allow Ripple to work more closely with banks, payment providers, and corporate clients seeking faster cross-border payment solutions.

The transaction remains subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions. If approved, the acquisition could be finalized in early April 2026.

Ripple has been expanding its regulated footprint globally in recent years, obtaining licenses or registrations in jurisdictions including the United Kingdom, Singapore, Luxembourg, and Abu Dhabi. The planned acquisition in Australia would represent another step in that broader regulatory strategy.