Areta Advises Frens Validator on Acquisition by Swyke Group

Zug, March 3rd, 2025 – Frens Validator, a leading validator supporting over 40 Proof-of-Stake (PoS) networks across the Cosmos ecosystem, Ethereum, and beyond, today announced its acquisition by Swyke Group, a Swiss private equity firm focused on blockchain and digital asset investments.

Founded in 2022, Frens AG has grown to secure more than $40 million in assets under management (AUM) while providing reliable, high-performance staking services to crypto investors and users. The transaction marks a strategic step forward for both firms, combining Swyke’s institutional expertise with Frens’ deep technical capabilities and retail-oriented approach. The newly aligned entity will expand its suite of on-chain financial products and staking solutions, catering to institutional and retail clients.

“We built a strong reputation for technical excellence and community-driven staking services,” said Frens Co-Founder Juri Maibaum. “By joining forces with Swyke, we’re opening new avenues to expand our reach and develop institutional-grade on-chain solutions while continuing to serve our existing retail customers.”

Swyke Group’s CEO, Davide Marcotti, added: “Frens Validator brings a complementary skill set to Swyke. While we’ve historically focused on institutional clients, Frens has built an engaged retail staking community. This merger allows us to bridge both worlds, creating a more comprehensive offering for our clients and the ecosystem we support.”

With this acquisition, Swyke strengthens its position as a leader in digital asset staking and infrastructure.

There will be no disruption to Frens Validator’s existing services. The integration will enhance the existing staking infrastructure, develop new on-chain products, and explore strategic opportunities in the evolving Web3 landscape.

As part of the merger, Frens Co-Founder Juri Maibaum will join Swyke Group as Head of Product, leading the development of innovative staking and on-chain financial services. Areta, a leading digital assets investment banking firm, supported the M&A process. 

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About Areta

Areta is a global financial services firm specializing in the blockchain and digital assets economy. Headquartered in Germany, the company provides independent services for web3 organizations across mergers & acquisitions, capital markets, and decentralized governance.

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Keywords: Crypto M&A, Token M&A, Staking M&A; Crypto Investment Banking; Crypto Advisors