Acquisition strengthens MoonPay’s push to link banks, stablecoins, and blockchains under unified regulation
Crypto payments firm MoonPay has acquired U.S.-based startup Meso in a strategic move aimed at expanding its global payments infrastructure. The acquisition is part of MoonPay’s broader plan to create a unified international network that connects traditional finance with blockchain-based systems.
Building a global payments network
MoonPay CEO and co-founder Ivan Soto-Wright said the acquisition underscores the company’s long-term vision. “We’ve built trusted ramps that brought millions into crypto, now we’re building the global network that will move money across every form and in every market,” he explained.
The network will integrate banks, card processors, stablecoins, and blockchains while ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks, including key U.S. licenses and Europe’s upcoming MiCA regime.
Leadership expansion with Meso founders
As part of the deal, Meso’s co-founders Ali Aghareza and Ben Mills will join MoonPay’s leadership team. Aghareza will serve as Chief Technology Officer, while Mills will take on the role of Senior Vice President of Product. Both bring significant experience from fintech leaders including Braintree, PayPal, and Venmo.
MoonPay did not disclose the financial details of the acquisition.
Expanding through acquisitions
The move follows a series of acquisitions by MoonPay in 2025, including Helio, a Solana-based payments firm; Iron, a stablecoin infrastructure provider; and Decent.xyz, an onchain payment tool. Together, these acquisitions strengthen MoonPay’s ability to offer crypto payments via bank transfers, cards, and mobile options.
Despite its expansion, MoonPay has faced challenges. In June, the company laid off 10% of its workforce due to high operating costs and underperforming margins.
Founded in 2019, MoonPay rose to prominence as a fiat-to-crypto onramp and was last valued at $3.4 billion after raising $555 million in Series A funding in 2021. The acquisition of Meso signals its pivot toward becoming a comprehensive global payments network, blending traditional finance and crypto under a regulatory-first model.
With the addition of Meso’s team and technology, MoonPay is positioning itself as a central player in the future of cross-border payments and digital asset adoption.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.