Bakkt Completes Acquisition of Distributed Technologies Research to Build Stablecoin Settlement Layer

Bakkt has finalized its acquisition of stablecoin infrastructure firm Distributed Technologies Research (DTR), completing an equity-based deal designed to strengthen its push into digital payments and settlement systems.

Stablecoin Infrastructure Deal Focuses on AI-Powered Payments

The acquisition integrates DTR’s artificial intelligence-driven payments engine and stablecoin technology into Bakkt’s institutional infrastructure. According to CEO Akshay Naheta, the combined system aims to create a 24/7 digital settlement layer that bridges traditional finance with blockchain-based payment rails.

He described the move as a structural upgrade to global money movement, highlighting stablecoins as a key link between legacy banking systems and emerging digital asset networks.

Equity-Based Transaction Expands Share Issuance

The deal, initially announced in January, involved more than 11.3 million shares issued to DTR stakeholders, with a potential additional issuance of 725,592 shares. The original structure included 9.3 million shares and a planned corporate rebranding to Bakkt Inc.

Market Pressure and Recovery Following Volatility

Bakkt’s shares (BKKT) experienced short-term volatility around the announcement, falling nearly 8% before rebounding later in the week.

The firm, which is majority-owned by Intercontinental Exchange, has faced ongoing financial pressure, including past delisting threats in 2024 after prolonged price declines. Despite challenges, Bakkt continues to expand its stablecoin and digital asset infrastructure strategy amid a broader $320 billion stablecoin market.