Fold Rings Nasdaq Bell: Bitcoin Firm’s Stock Soars 18% on IPO Day

In a landmark moment for Bitcoin’s mainstream acceptance, Fold, a company dedicated to making Bitcoin accessible, rang the Nasdaq bell on May 2, 2025. Fold’s stock, trading under the ticker “FLD,” surged 18% to close at $4.67 on its debut, marking a significant milestone in the integration of Bitcoin into traditional finance.

• Fold’s IPO celebrated by ringing Nasdaq Opening Bell
• Stock surged 18% to $4.67 on debut
• Operates Bitcoin reward app for cashback on credit card purchases
• Expansion into Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific via Visa partnership
• Went public through a SPAC merger with FTAC Emerald Acquisition Corp

Fold’s IPO isn’t just about the stock surge; it’s a testament to their innovative approach to bringing Bitcoin into everyday life. Their app allows users to earn Bitcoin cashback on purchases made with credit cards, which users can then transfer to their personal wallets. This system not only encourages Bitcoin usage but also simplifies it for everyday people. Since partnering with Visa in 2023, Fold has extended its services across Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific, showcasing their commitment to global Bitcoin adoption.

The company chose a quicker path to public markets by merging with FTAC Emerald Acquisition Corp, a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC), on February 19, 2025. This move not only facilitated Fold’s entry into the public market but also aligns with their mission to build a gateway to Bitcoin-based financial services. Will Reeves, Co-Founder and CEO of Fold, highlighted this vision, stating:

Going public positions Fold to advance our goal of expanding access to Bitcoin investment opportunities and building a gateway to Bitcoin-based financial services.

While the excitement around Fold’s IPO is undeniable, it’s essential to keep a balanced perspective. Bitcoin’s integration into financial services reflects its growing acceptance, but the cryptocurrency’s volatility and regulatory uncertainties remain significant challenges. As Fold expands, navigating these hurdles will be crucial to sustaining growth while safeguarding users and investors.

The partnership with Visa brings both benefits and complexities. On one hand, it provides Fold with the infrastructure and credibility to reach a global audience. On the other, it ties the company to traditional financial systems, which some Bitcoin maximalists might view skeptically. However, this pragmatic approach could serve as a bridge between the old and new worlds of finance, accelerating Bitcoin’s adoption.

Fold’s success might inspire other Bitcoin-focused companies to follow suit, potentially speeding up mainstream cryptocurrency adoption. Yet, it also raises questions about the long-term impact on Bitcoin’s decentralized nature and the sustainability of such models.

Here’s a closer look at Fold’s journey:

What is Fold’s primary business model?

Fold operates a Bitcoin reward app that offers cashback in BTC on credit card purchases.

How did Fold go public?

Fold went public through a SPAC merger with FTAC Emerald Acquisition Corp on February 19, 2025.

What was the stock performance on Fold’s IPO day?

Fold’s stock, trading under the ticker “FLD,” surged by 18% to close at $4.67 on its debut.

How has Fold expanded its reach internationally?

Fold expanded its reach into Europe, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific regions through a partnership with Visa.

Why is the partnership with Visa significant for Fold?

The partnership with Visa is significant because it has enabled Fold to expand its services globally and increase its user base.

Fold’s IPO is a beacon of progress in the dynamic world of Bitcoin and finance. It’s a reminder of the complexities involved in bridging traditional finance with the decentralized realm of cryptocurrencies. As we continue to watch Fold’s journey, it’s clear that the road ahead is both exciting and challenging. But then again, what’s a revolution without a few bumps along the way?