VALR Gains ODP License, Spur Crypto Derivatives Push in South Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa, December 23rd, 2025 - VALR, one of Africa's leading cryptocurrency exchanges, is reflecting on a historic year marked by regulatory milestones, user growth, and strategic innovation. With the acquisition of its Over-the-Counter Derivatives Provider (ODP) licence, the firm is now one of the first in South Africa to offer crypto-linked derivatives such as futures, options, and contracts for difference.

The company has expanded its global user base to over 1.7 million registered users, with high engagement reflected in hundreds of thousands of monthly active users and tens of thousands of daily interactions. This growth comes as VALR has significantly expanded its product offerings to include payments, staking, lending, and real-world assets.

In 2025, VALR has also become a leader in tokenizing traditional assets, with the launch of the Garrington Capital USD Private Credit Token and xStocks, which provide retail investors with exposure to U.S. equities and private credit markets. These products are part of a broader trend integrating crypto with traditional finance.

Regulatory Advancement and Market Expansion

VALR's acquisition of the ODP licence from South Africa's Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) marks a significant step in the formal integration of crypto assets into the country's financial system. This regulatory endorsement allows the exchange to offer derivatives such as futures, options, and forwards with crypto as the underlying asset. It also positions VALR as a pioneer in the derivatives segment of the crypto market in Africa.

The regulatory environment in South Africa has become increasingly supportive of crypto innovation, with over 300 licensed crypto asset service providers since April 2024. VALR's early adoption of this regulatory framework has allowed it to maintain a competitive edge while expanding its services to meet the evolving needs of retail and institutional clients according to market analysis.

Beyond its core trading functions, VALR has diversified its offerings to include payments integration with major platforms such as Peach and Zapper. The firm's mobile app now supports transactions at over 31,000 retail stores in South Africa, further solidifying its role as a fintech powerhouse.

Real-World Assets and Financial Inclusion

The year 2025 has also seen a surge in the tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs), a development that has allowed VALR to bridge traditional finance with blockchain technology. In July, the company listed the Garrington Capital USD Private Credit Token, the first tokenized asset in Africa. This offering enabled retail investors to access the North American private credit market, an asset class traditionally reserved for institutional players.

In September, VALR launched xStocks, which provides users with exposure to U.S. stocks and index funds such as Tesla, NVIDIA, and the S&P 500. The product is part of a broader strategy to make global financial markets more accessible to African investors. Additionally, the firm introduced Crypto Bundles to help new users build diversified portfolios with ease according to product updates.

Institutional Growth and Community Impact

Institutional adoption has also accelerated in 2025, with major firms in South Africa partnering with VALR to offer crypto services to their clients. These partnerships include collaborations with banks and fintechs to expand access to stablecoins and digital asset custody solutions. Notably, the firm has also formed a strategic relationship with Mukuru to enhance U.S. dollar access across the continent according to industry reports.

To further its mission of financial inclusion, VALR has launched a multi-year partnership with the DHL Stormers rugby team. The exchange's branding now appears on team kits and at DHL Stadium, where it hosts a VIP suite. Additionally, the firm has used a helicopter to fly a banner across the country promoting its "Crypto For Everyone" initiative according to official announcements.

Looking Ahead in 2026

As 2025 draws to a close, VALR is positioning itself for continued expansion and innovation in 2026. With regulatory clarity improving both in South Africa and globally, the firm is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for crypto-based financial products. Its CEO, Farzam Ehsani, has emphasized the firm's commitment to serving both individuals and institutions, leveraging technology to foster financial freedom and accessibility.

The company's focus on innovation, regulatory compliance, and financial inclusion places it at the forefront of Africa's crypto revolution. As global markets continue to evolve and embrace digital assets, VALR's strategic moves suggest a future where crypto becomes a more integral part of the financial ecosystem.