Private Equity Firm Bridgepoint to Buy Majority of Crypto Audit Specialist ht.digital

Core Viewpoint - Bridgepoint Group has agreed to acquire a majority stake in ht.digital, a company specializing in financial audits and proof of reserves attestations for cryptocurrency firms, with the deal reportedly valued at £200 million ($262 million) [1][2]. Company Overview - ht.digital provides essential services in the cryptocurrency sector, focusing on independent audits and asset transparency, which have become increasingly important following the collapse of FTX [2]. - The company was established from the accountancy firm Harris & Trotter in 2023 and combines blockchain expertise with accounting knowledge and proprietary tools for on-chain verification [4]. Industry Trends - There is a growing regulatory demand for independent, institutional-grade assurance services in the cryptocurrency market, driven by the need for transparency among trading platforms [2][3]. - The investment in ht.digital aligns with two significant trends: the institutional adoption of digital assets and the increasing regulatory scrutiny requiring independent audits [3]. Investment Details - The acquisition will be funded through Bridgepoint Development Capital V, which focuses on supporting fast-growing businesses across Europe [4]. - The transaction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026 [5].