- Animoca Brands plans a U.S. IPO to expand investor reach and boost global credibility amid friendlier regulatory shifts.
- The company continues global expansion with new projects in identity, gaming, and startup acceleration.
Hong Kong-based Animoca Brands, a well-known blockchain and Web3 gaming company, has announced its plans to conduct an initial public offering (IPO) in the United States. Their target: the New York Stock Exchange.
They see a great opportunity amid the changing attitudes of regulators in the US, who now appear more open to digital assets. CEO and co-founder Yat Siu called this situation a “unique moment” to access the world’s largest capital market.
JUST IN🚨
Hong Kong-based Animoca Brands plans a U.S. listing, citing Trump’s pro-crypto stance as a “unique moment” to enter the world's top capital market.🇭🇰🇺🇸 —FT pic.twitter.com/vZhbHcBPdR
— Moby Media (@mobymedia) May 13, 2025
Turning U.S. Regulation into Opportunity
Previously, Animoca tended to avoid the American market due to the harsh approach of the authorities there, especially towards crypto companies. However, recently the situation has begun to change. Several legal cases that used to haunt digital asset companies have begun to be withdrawn.
Well, that’s where Animoca sees an opening. They not only want to expand their investor base, but also increase the weight of their global reputation. Just imagine if a company like this could actually enter the NYSE — Web3’s reputation would go up a class.
Animoca Brands Doubles Down on Web3 Infrastructure
On the other hand, CNF previously reported that Animoca has expanded its collaboration into the digital identity scene. They are working with Soneium, an Ethereum-based Layer-2 blockchain co-developed by Sony Group. The collaboration brings Moca Network, Animoca’s digital identity platform, to build the core identity layer on top of the Soneium network.
Interestingly, the project began with the launch of Anime ID — a decentralized identity and reputation system for the anime fan community. The project was carried out by the San FranTokyo team, the brains behind the Anime Foundation.
Furthermore, on April 29, 2025, Animoca also opened its first office in the Middle East, precisely in Dubai. They even appointed Omar Elassar, a Web3 industry veteran, to lead its operations there. Dubai is indeed rising as a new home for Web3 players, so it is no surprise that Animoca is also stepping on the gas there.
On the same day, the company released the mobile game ‘ONE Fight Arena’ in collaboration with its subsidiary, Notre Game, with ONE Championship. This game combines Web3 elements and presents a fighting experience using real athletes from the mixed martial arts event. Tapping into the market of sports fans and Web3 gamers? Quite an interesting combination.
Meanwhile, the day before, on April 28, Animoca, along with Fabric Ventures, Coinbase, and Founders Factory, announced the launch of a Web3 accelerator in the UK. The program is designed to foster the growth of Web3 tech startups, through funding, mentorship, and industry connections.
With annual revenues of $314 million last year and EBITDA of $97 million, and cash and stablecoin reserves of nearly $300 million, Animoca appears to be setting the chessboard for a major global expansion. Coupled with a portfolio of more than 540 investments—including OpenSea, Kraken, and Consensys—the company is not playing around.
