CoinGecko Explores Potential $500M Sale Amid Crypto M&A Surge and Traffic Decline

CoinGecko, a leading cryptocurrency market data platform, is reportedly exploring a potential sale at a valuation of around $500 million. The firm has engaged investment bank Moelis to advise on the process, which began late last year. The discussions remain private, with no final valuation or buyer identified.

The potential sale comes amid a broader surge in crypto mergers and acquisitions. In 2025, disclosed M&A activity in the crypto sector reached $8.6 billion across 133 deals. This number exceeds the total of the previous four years combined, highlighting a trend toward industry consolidation.

CoinGecko faces challenges in a shifting market environment. Traffic to its platform has declined significantly, with monthly visits dropping to 18.5 million in December 2025 from 43.5 million the prior year. Similar trends were seen at CoinMarketCap, which also experienced a notable drop in visitors.

Why the Move Happened

The potential sale reflects rising pressure for consolidation among crypto data firms. As user behavior shifts toward chatbots for quick information, platforms like CoinGecko must adapt to maintain relevance. Companies are seeking scale, regulatory compliance, and strategic assets to remain competitive.

The crypto M&A landscape has also been shaped by institutional demand for established platforms. Traditional financial institutions are increasingly interested in stablecoins and payment-related crypto services, offering clearer operating models and regulatory alignment.

How Markets Responded

The news of CoinGecko's potential sale aligns with a record-breaking year for crypto M&A. Major transactions in 2025 included Coinbase's $2.9 billion purchase of Deribit and Kraken's $1.5 billion acquisition of NinjaTrader. These deals reflect a broader trend of consolidation across exchanges and infrastructure firms.

Binance's 2020 acquisition of CoinMarketCap for $400 million serves as a precedent for crypto data platform valuations. If CoinGecko proceeds with a sale, it could set a new benchmark for similar transactions in the sector.

What Analysts Are Watching

Analysts are closely monitoring regulatory clarity and macroeconomic conditions as key factors that will shape future deal activity. Karl-Martin Ahrend, co-founder of crypto M&A advisory firm Areta, noted that transaction activity will depend on risk appetite, interest rates, and valuation attractiveness.

Investors and industry observers are also watching how user behavior evolves. As more people rely on AI chatbots for information, traditional data platforms must find new ways to maintain their user base. This could influence the valuation of data-driven crypto companies in future transactions.

The outcome of CoinGecko's potential sale will also impact the broader market. If a deal is finalized, it could signal how independent crypto data firms plan to adapt to a rapidly changing environment. The identity of the acquirer and any changes in CoinGecko's operations will be closely scrutinized by users and analysts alike.

The crypto M&A momentum is expected to continue into 2026. With more companies opting for acquisitions rather than internal development, the sector remains focused on regulated infrastructure and strategic assets. Stablecoins, payments, and custody services are likely to remain key areas of interest for traditional finance players.