Polygon Labs buys two crypto startups for $250 million as it looks to compete with Stripe

Core Insights - Polygon Labs has acquired crypto startups Coinme and Sequence for over $250 million to enhance its stablecoin strategy [1][2] - The acquisitions position Polygon Labs in competition with fintech giant Stripe, which has also been expanding its stablecoin and blockchain capabilities [3][4] Group 1: Acquisitions - The total purchase price for Coinme and Sequence exceeds $250 million, but specific amounts for each acquisition remain undisclosed [1] - Coinme specializes in converting cash to crypto and operates crypto ATMs, while Sequence focuses on blockchain infrastructure and crypto wallets [2] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Polygon Labs' acquisitions are seen as a strategic move to compete with Stripe, which has been acquiring stablecoin and crypto wallet firms [3] - Polygon's approach is described as a "reverse Stripe," as it is building on its existing blockchain network by acquiring startups, unlike Stripe, which first acquired startups before developing its blockchain [4] Group 3: Market Context - The push into stablecoins by Polygon Labs aligns with a growing interest in cryptocurrencies pegged to real-world assets, especially following new regulatory developments [5] - Polygon aims to leverage its established network on Ethereum and has made significant investments in the payments sector, including hiring Stripe's former head of crypto [6]