Crypto payment platform MoonPay is set to receive a major funding boost, with reports indicating that Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the parent company of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), is considering an investment. According to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the talks, MoonPay is nearing the close of this funding round and is aiming for a valuation of approximately $5 billion.
Based in New York, MoonPay focuses on making cryptocurrency trading easier through various payment options like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Venmo. The platform also provides tools for sending, receiving, and managing stablecoins. Notably, MoonPay recently secured a Limited Purpose Trust Charter from the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), an important regulatory milestone that builds on its existing BitLicense. This charter allows MoonPay to expand its custody and other crypto services in New York, putting it in the same category as established firms like Coinbase and PayPal, which also operate under the state’s strict digital asset rules.
MoonPay’s momentum is further strengthened by the news that Caroline Pham, the acting chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), is set to join the company as its chief legal and administrative officer. Pham has been a prominent figure in regulation, serving on the CFTC’s board since April 2022 and becoming acting chair in January 2025. She had announced plans to return to the private sector once a permanent chair was confirmed, which is expected this week with Mike Selig’s anticipated confirmation.
During her time at the CFTC, Pham accelerated several crypto-related initiatives, including allowing spot crypto trading on futures exchanges and launching a digital assets pilot program that permits the use of assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum in derivatives markets. She also introduced operational changes at the CFTC, reportedly saving nearly $50 million annually by improving governance and accountability.
Pham noted that her agenda as acting chair focused on carrying out presidential executive orders aimed at increasing regulatory clarity and efficiency across government agencies. On her decision to join MoonPay, she highlighted the importance of personal connections in her career choices, explaining that meaningful relationships often guide her decisions. Her connection to MoonPay began at a Christie’s Art + Tech dinner in 2023, where she met MoonPay’s president, Keith Grossman. What started as a conversation at that event grew into a friendship and later into professional discussions as Pham explored opportunities after her government service.
Grossman expressed strong confidence in Pham’s abilities, saying, “MoonPay has really matured, and Caroline is the exact type of leader with the exact type of big bank and regulatory experience that’s needed for us to be able to move to the next level.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about MoonPay and its recent valuation news designed to be clear and helpful for users at all levels
General Company Info
Q What is MoonPay
A MoonPay is a financial technology company that provides the infrastructure for buying and selling cryptocurrencies Its the checkout button you see on many NFT websites and crypto apps allowing users to use credit cards bank transfers and other familiar payment methods
Q I heard MoonPay is nearing a 5 billion valuation Is that true
A Yes recent reports indicate MoonPay is in advanced funding talks that would value the company at approximately 5 billion This is a significant increase from its previous valuation
Q Who is supporting this new funding round
A The funding round is reportedly being led by Consensus a firm founded by the owner of the New York Stock Exchange along with other major investors This institutional backing is a strong signal of confidence in the crypto industrys infrastructure
Q Why is support from the NYSE owner a big deal
A It represents a major bridge between traditional regulated finance and the cryptocurrency world Involvement from such a established financial institution adds credibility and suggests a focus on compliance and mainstream adoption
For Beginners
Q How do I actually use MoonPay
A You typically dont go to MoonPays website directly Instead you use it through a partner platform When you go to buy crypto or an NFT youll see a MoonPay widget that guides you through entering your card details and completing the purchase
Q What can I buy with MoonPay
A Primarily cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin Ethereum and many others Its also widely used to purchase NFTs on platforms like OpenSea where it simplifies the process of buying digital art or collectibles
Q Is MoonPay safe to use
A MoonPay is a regulated company that uses standard security measures like encryption and requires identity verification for transactions However as with any financial service you should ensure you are on the official website of the platform youre using and practice good digital security