Stripe’s Continued Crypto Push
Stripe is advancing its crypto strategy with the acquisition of Privy, a New York–based startup that offers embedded crypto wallet infrastructure via a single API. This move builds on its $1.1 billion purchase of stablecoin infrastructure provider Bridge earlier this year, signaling Stripe’s strategic expansion into digital assets and crypto payments.
What Privy Brings to the Table
Founded in 2021, Privy has secured around $40 million in funding. Its wallet API supports more than 75 million accounts across 1,000 developer teams, including notable platforms like Hyperliquid, Toku, and Blackbird Labs. Privy’s CEO, Henri Stern, explained the challenge: on-ramping users with external wallets was breaking user flows and killing conversions. By integrating wallet infrastructure directly into apps, Privy enables smoother user onboarding and greater crypto adoption .
When Will The Deal Go Through?
While the financial terms were undisclosed in most outlets, sources like Perplexity report a valuation of approximately $230 million. Stripe confirmed the deal and plans to continue running Privy as an independent product within its ecosystem. The acquisition is expected to close “in the coming weeks”.
How Stripe Plans to Connect Privy with Bridge
Stripe aims to bridge the gap between fiat and crypto by integrating Privy’s wallet layer with the stablecoin rails from Bridge and its core payments system. CEO Patrick Collison stated this will enable a “new generation of global, internet-native financial services.” The goal: let users move money seamlessly across wallets, stablecoins, and traditional payment rails.
The Crypto-Fiat Convergence
Stripe’s acquisitions reflect a broader trend: the convergence of crypto with mainstream finance. Users will soon be able to:
-
Onboard via email or social credentials
-
Access stablecoins like USDC or USDT
-
Use embedded wallets without external software
-
Convert fiat to stablecoins and vice versa
This places Stripe at the forefront of a hybrid crypto payment model, combining user-friendly apps with regulated wallet systems.
The Future of Fintech
This acquisition sets Stripe apart from peers. By offering self-custody wallets, crypto convenience, and regulatory-ready stablecoins, Stripe provides:
-
Developers easy-to-integrate wallet solutions with minimal friction
-
Merchants access to a payment platform supporting both fiat and crypto
-
Banks and enterprises a compliant infrastructure for crypto on/off ramps
-
Investors a stake in crypto infrastructure that supports a $250 billion stablecoin market
Stripe’s move matters because it controls the interface between traditional and digital finance—a strategic “choke point” for any next-gen financial application .
Should You Be On The Look Out For Stripe?
Following its acquisition of Bridge, Stripe is now gearing up for a major integrated rollout. With stablecoin accounts live in 100+ countries, adding Privy strengthens its offering. The goal: frictionless crypto adoption via Stripe’s global network.
Watch for:
-
Detailed rollouts of wallet + stablecoin integration
-
Merchant-friendly APIs supporting fiat-crypto transactions
-
Collaborations with partners like Shopify and Web3 platforms