Smart Valor, a Switzerland-based crypto exchange and AI-led investment company, is currently undergoing a strategic review to explore the possibility of selling all or part of its business. CEO and co-founder Olga Feldmeier confirmed in a recent interview with CoinDesk that the decision follows numerous inquiries from large global exchanges, crypto platforms, and traditional financial institutions including banks and trading platforms.
The backdrop for this potential sale includes the recent implementation of the European Union’s Markets in Crypto Asset (MiCA) rules, which came into effect on December 30. While Smart Valor operates outside this regulatory framework in Switzerland and Lichtenstein, both countries are part of the European Economic Area (EEA) and have the option to adopt MiCA regulations. Notably, Liechtenstein’s law for MiCA implementation takes effect on February 1.
Feldmeier emphasized the company’s intentions in an email, stating, “Our ultimate goal is to find the best strategy for growing stakeholder value while leveraging the resurgence of the crypto market and the benefits of enhanced regulation.” In line with this vision, Smart Valor has enlisted investment banking firm Imperii Partners to explore potential opportunities for acquisition.
Insiders familiar with the matter reported that advisors are conducting an auction for the company, with bids expected by January 24. A variety of entities, from large exchanges to retail brokerages, are anticipated to participate in the bidding process, aiming to capitalize on the regulated exchange business that Smart Valor offers. Some companies are already in the due diligence phase, with at least one public company expected to enter the auction as well.
Founded in 2017, Smart Valor serves both retail clients and banks, operating through three main business units: a licensed retail crypto exchange, a technology division that sells exchange solutions to financial institutions, and an artificial intelligence-driven investment platform known as Elann.AI.
Prior to the holiday season, a data room was established for potential bidders to perform due diligence, underscoring the seriousness of the sale process. Notably, Smart Valor conducted a successful initial public offering (IPO) in 2022, becoming one of the first publicly listed crypto companies in the region with its shares listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market in Stockholm; however, these shares were delisted in May 2024.
As Smart Valor navigates this pivotal moment, the market will be closely watching to see how its future unfolds amidst a landscape that is rapidly evolving both in crypto and traditional financial sectors.
