Animoca Brands’ Nasdaq listing achieves nominal valuation above $8 billion

In Brief:

• Animoca Brands and Currenc Group extend merger deadline to June 30, 2026, reaffirming plans for a significant public listing.
• The deal, initially set in November 2025, positions Currenc as the vehicle for Animoca’s market debut on Nasdaq.
• Current valuation of $8.7 billion reflects a substantial rise from $2.4 billion, signaling confidence in Animoca’s future prospects.

Merger extension underscores strategic moves

Animoca Brands and Currenc Group (Nasdaq: CURR) have extended the exclusivity period for their proposed reverse merger until June 30, 2026. This decision indicates ongoing momentum toward what could be a landmark public listing in the blockchain gaming sector.

Originally outlined in a term sheet signed on November 2, 2025, this deal will allow Currenc to acquire all equity interests in Animoca Brands. Post-merger, Animoca’s shareholders would hold about 95% of the combined entity, with Currenc shareholders retaining 5%. The resulting company will operate under the Animoca Brands name and be traded on Nasdaq.

This approach allows Animoca to bypass the traditional IPO, navigating a clearer path to U.S. capital markets at a time when regulatory conditions for digital assets are improving. The arrangement also provides a nominal valuation for Animoca as a public entity; Currenc’s market capitalization of $435 million currently values Animoca at $8.7 billion, a significant increase from $2.4 billion at the deal’s announcement.

The exclusivity extension bars either party from engaging with competing offers while finalizing due diligence and documentation. Aiming for a Q3 2026 closing, the deal has a long stop date of December 31, 2026, which could be extended by mutual agreement for six additional months.

Leadership perspectives

Currenc CEO Alexander King Ong Kong characterized the extension as evidence of meaningful progress in the discussions. Animoca’s executive chairman Yat Siu highlighted the strategic importance of the Nasdaq listing, noting the extension provides necessary time for thorough preparations.

Implications for web3 gaming

The potential merger carries significant implications for the broader crypto gaming ecosystem. Animoca Brands is central to a vast network of investments and partnerships encompassing metaverse platforms, NFT marketplaces, play-to-earn games, and digital property rights. A successful Nasdaq listing could not only grant access to larger capital pools but also enhance institutional legitimacy for the entire sector.

Despite pending due diligence, regulatory approvals, and shareholder votes, the extension signifies both parties’ commitment to finalizing the deal.