Cryptocurrency platform FTX is in acquisition talks with several listed companies that focus on classic securities. This is reported by CNBC citing knowledgeable sources.

Broadcast sources claim that FTX has approached at least three online brokers with a buyout offer. Negotiations are at an early stage, the parties have not signed any agreements.

The addressees of the publication were Webull, Apex Clearing and Public.com among the companies addressed by the stock market.

As a result of a funding round in February 2021, Webull was valued at $1 billion, while Public.com received a valuation of $1.2 billion that same year. SPAC Kuzey Yıldızı Yatırım A.Ş. II, an estimated $4.7 billion.

Previously, the American branch of FTX provided access to classic stock trading for a limited clientele. The service is scheduled to expand to the entire platform by the end of June.

The head of the exchange, Sam Bankman-Fried, stated that at the time, the company did not receive commissions for securities transactions and did not use the “pay for order flow” practice.

Recall that in May 2022 Emergent Fidelity Technologies, a subsidiary of Bankman-Freed, purchased a 7.6% stake in online broker Robinhood. The value of the securities exceeded $648 million.