Key Takeaways
- Upbit’s parent company, Dunamu, reported an 85% surge in operating profit in 2024.
- The firm has earmarked $205 million for shareholder dividends—nearly triple last year’s payout.
- The exchange’s success comes despite regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges.
South Korean crypto exchange Upbit is raking in record profits, even as regulators tighten their grip on the industry.
The exchange’s parent company, Dunamu, saw an 85% surge in operating profits in 2024, allowing it to triple its shareholder dividends.
Upbit’s 2024 Profit Boom
According to a recent financial report , Dunamu’s consolidated revenue is expected to reach KRW 1.73 trillion ($1.2 billion) in 2024, reflecting a 70.1% increase from the previous year.
- Operating profit: KRW 1.19 trillion ($809 million), an 85% jump from 2023.
- Net profit: KRW 983.8 billion ($671 million), up 22.2% year-over-year.
Dunamu attributed its meteoric rise to Bitcoin’s post-halving rally and improving market sentiment.
The firm also cited anticipation of U.S. interest rate cuts and a global liquidity expansion following pro-crypto Donald Trump’s election victory as key factors driving investor confidence.
As a publicly audited company with over 500 shareholders, Dunamu is required to publish quarterly and semi-annual business reports, offering transparency into its financial performance.
Upbit Delivers Massive Payouts to Shareholders
Upbit’s financial windfall hasn’t just benefited the exchange—it’s also delivering a windfall for shareholders.
During its annual shareholders’ meeting on Friday, Dunamu approved a threefold increase in dividend payouts:
- Shareholders will receive KRW 8,777 ($5.99) per common share, compared to KRW 2,937 ($2) per share last year.
- The company has allocated KRW 300 billion ($205 million) in cash dividends as part of its distribution of retained earnings.
The decision highlights Dunamu’s confidence in Upbit’s long-term profitability, even as regulatory scrutiny over the exchange intensifies.
Regulatory Pressure Looms
Despite its financial success, Upbit has not been immune to South Korea’s tightening crypto regulations.
The exchange has faced fines and temporary service bans related to compliance issues and user acquisition practices.
South Korean authorities have been cracking down on exchanges, enforcing stricter anti-money laundering measures and customer verification rules.
While regulatory uncertainty remains, Upbit’s record-setting year suggests that demand for crypto trading remains strong and that investors are reaping the rewards.
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