Bakkt Holdings has announced its acquisition of Distributed Technologies Research, a firm specializing in stablecoin infrastructure, leading to a 20% increase in Bakkt's share price. The acquisition, revealed on January 12, 2026, marks a strategic shift for Bakkt as it aims to enhance its digital asset offerings and neobanking capabilities. The deal involves approximately 9.13 million Class A shares for DTR shareholders, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals. The acquisition is expected to significantly expand Bakkt's financial service capabilities by incorporating stablecoin settlement infrastructure, reducing reliance on third-party services. This move aligns with Bakkt's strategy to broaden its platform's delivery scope across digital assets, as highlighted by Colleen Brown, a member of Bakkt’s Special Committee. The market has responded positively, reflecting investor confidence in Bakkt's strategic expansion through stablecoin technology.