The global fintech landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with institutional interest in cryptocurrency platforms reaching new heights. In a landmark move that underscores the growing importance of Latin America in the digital asset ecosystem, SoftBank Group has injected $200 million into Mercado Bitcoin, Brazil’s leading cryptocurrency exchange. This strategic investment, made through the SoftBank Latin America Fund, marks one of the largest crypto-related investments on the continent and highlights the region’s rising prominence in blockchain innovation.
A Strategic Bet on Latin America’s Crypto Future
SoftBank’s latest investment targets Mercado Bitcoin’s parent company, 2TM Group, a fintech powerhouse driving digital transformation across Brazil. The funding round not only positions 2TM Group as a $2.1 billion unicorn but also solidifies its status as the eighth most valuable fintech company in Latin America. This milestone reflects both investor confidence and the accelerating adoption of cryptocurrency in emerging markets.
The SoftBank Latin America Fund, known for backing high-growth startups in sectors like e-commerce, education technology, and financial services, has now doubled down on blockchain infrastructure. By choosing Mercado Bitcoin, SoftBank is betting on a platform with deep regional expertise and a proven track record of scaling amid evolving regulatory landscapes.
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Rapid Growth and Market Expansion
Mercado Bitcoin has experienced explosive growth over the past year. The platform added 2.8 million customers within 12 months, with approximately 700,000 new users joining between January and May 2025 alone. This surge in user acquisition is mirrored by a dramatic increase in trading volume—so much so that the exchange reported transaction activity exceeding the total of its first seven years of operation.
This unprecedented momentum is fueled by increasing financial inclusion efforts, rising inflation concerns, and growing public awareness of decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions. As more Brazilians seek alternatives to traditional banking systems, platforms like Mercado Bitcoin are stepping in to provide accessible, secure, and compliant gateways to digital assets.
Marcelo Claure, CEO of SoftBank Group International and Chief Operating Officer of SoftBank Group, emphasized the strategic rationale behind the investment:
“Bitcoin has emerged as a global leader in the cryptocurrency space. We are deeply impressed by 2TM Group’s understanding of the Brazilian ecosystem and their contributions to the country’s evolving regulatory framework.”
Claure also expressed optimism about the broader potential of digital currencies in Latin America:
“Cryptocurrencies hold incredible promise across the region. We believe success in Brazil is key for 2TM Group, and we’re thrilled to be part of this transformative journey.”
Driving Innovation Through Infrastructure Investment
With the new capital, Mercado Bitcoin plans to expand its technological infrastructure, enhance security protocols, and accelerate product development. The goal is to support increasing transaction volumes while maintaining reliability and compliance with local regulations.
Additionally, the funding will help scale 2TM Group’s broader portfolio of financial services. This includes Meubank, a popular crypto wallet provider, and an upcoming investment fund named “Bitrust,” which aims to bring institutional-grade crypto exposure to retail and accredited investors alike.
The launch of Latin America’s first bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) on the B3 stock exchange in São Paulo further validates the maturation of the region’s crypto market. This regulatory milestone has paved the way for greater institutional participation and has encouraged global investors like SoftBank to deepen their presence in Brazil.
SoftBank’s Longstanding Interest in Blockchain Technology
While this investment marks SoftBank’s largest direct foray into Latin American crypto markets, it is not the company’s first engagement with blockchain technology. As early as October 2019, SoftBank partnered with Tbcasoft and IBM to develop cross-carrier blockchain solutions aimed at improving mobile payment systems and data integrity.
That same year, SoftBank collaborated with Tbcasoft to form a blockchain-based “identity verification” working group—an initiative focused on enhancing digital identity management across telecom networks. These efforts demonstrate SoftBank’s long-term vision for distributed ledger technology beyond just cryptocurrency trading.
Moreover, several companies within SoftBank’s vast investment portfolio have begun integrating digital assets into their operations. Notably, WeWork—backed by SoftBank—announced in April 2025 that it would begin accepting cryptocurrency payments and holding digital assets on its balance sheet, signaling a shift toward broader corporate adoption.
Why Brazil Is Becoming a Crypto Hub
Brazil stands out as a leader in Latin American fintech innovation due to several factors:
- Regulatory clarity: Brazilian authorities have taken proactive steps to regulate crypto businesses without stifling innovation.
- High mobile penetration: With widespread smartphone usage, digital wallets and crypto apps can reach mass audiences quickly.
- Economic volatility: Persistent inflation and currency devaluation have driven demand for alternative stores of value.
- Young, tech-savvy population: Over 60% of Brazilians are under 35, creating fertile ground for digital finance adoption.
These dynamics make Brazil an ideal testing ground for scalable blockchain applications—and a prime destination for venture capital.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Mercado Bitcoin?
A: Mercado Bitcoin is Brazil’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, offering trading, custody, and payment solutions for digital assets. It operates under strict regulatory oversight and serves millions of retail and institutional users.
Q: Who owns Mercado Bitcoin?
A: The platform is owned by 2TM Group, a Brazilian fintech firm that also operates Meubank and is launching a new crypto investment fund called Bitrust.
Q: Is SoftBank investing directly in bitcoin?
A: No—SoftBank invested in Mercado Bitcoin’s parent company, 2TM Group. This is an equity investment in a crypto platform, not a direct purchase of digital assets.
Q: How will the $200 million be used?
A: Funds will be allocated toward expanding infrastructure, improving cybersecurity, growing customer support teams, and launching new financial products under the 2TM ecosystem.
Q: Does this mean more crypto adoption in Latin America?
A: Yes. This investment signals strong institutional confidence in the region’s digital economy and is likely to inspire further innovation and funding across Latin American fintech startups.
Q: Was there a previous funding round for Mercado Bitcoin?
A: Yes. In January 2025, Mercado Bitcoin completed a Series A round led by Parallax Ventures and G2D/GP Investments before securing this larger commitment from SoftBank.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Digital Finance
SoftBank’s $200 million bet on Mercado Bitcoin is more than just a financial transaction—it’s a vote of confidence in Brazil’s digital future. As blockchain technology becomes increasingly embedded in everyday financial services, platforms that combine regulatory compliance with user-centric design will lead the next wave of growth.
For investors, developers, and everyday users alike, the message is clear: Latin America is no longer on the sidelines of the crypto revolution. With visionary companies like 2TM Group and strategic partners like SoftBank driving progress, the region is poised to play a central role in shaping the decentralized economy of tomorrow.
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