Bybit’s Ambitious Vision: Transforming into a Super App in Türkiye

Exclusive Insights from CEO Ben Zhou on Bybit’s Expansion Plans and Future Offerings

Bybit Aims to Become a Super App in Türkiye: Exclusive Insights from CEO Ben Zhou

In an exclusive interview with FinTechTime, Bybit CEO Ben Zhou unveiled ambitious plans to transform the cryptocurrency exchange into a “super application” in Türkiye, one of its top five global markets. As the crypto landscape evolves, Bybit is setting its sights on expanding its offerings beyond mere trading, aiming to provide a comprehensive suite of financial services tailored to the Turkish market.

A Vision for Comprehensive Financial Services

Zhou emphasized that Bybit’s vision extends far beyond buying and selling cryptocurrencies. The company is exploring the introduction of various financial products, including payment solutions, traditional investments, and services for corporate clients. This strategic pivot aligns with Bybit’s broader 2026 expansion plan, which seeks to incorporate banking-style services, custody solutions, and cross-border payment capabilities.

“Türkiye is uniquely positioned as a hub for crypto innovation, and we want to leverage that potential,” Zhou stated. He noted that the company is considering additional Turkish licenses to diversify its product offerings, although specific timelines or new services have yet to be announced.

The Role of Payments in Bybit’s Strategy

Payments are a crucial component of Bybit’s strategy. The exchange has already developed payment products in other regions and recently integrated Bybit Pay with over 300 wallets and financial platforms. This infrastructure allows users to spend or transfer cryptocurrencies seamlessly, contingent on local regulations.

Zhou highlighted the growing use of stablecoins in Türkiye, particularly for cross-border transactions among businesses. He believes the country could emerge as a significant market for corporate stablecoin payments, citing Chainalysis data that shows Türkiye leading the world in stablecoin trading volume relative to GDP.

Navigating Türkiye’s Licensing Landscape

However, Bybit’s expansion plans hinge on Türkiye’s evolving licensing framework. The Capital Markets Board of Türkiye has listed Bybit Kripto Varlık Alım Satım Platformu AŞ among companies intending to operate, but Zhou cautioned that this does not equate to full authorization under local laws.

Since the introduction of new regulations in July 2024, crypto service providers must adhere to stringent guidelines covering trading, custody, and risk management. Zhou noted that local control over wallets and user protection has become a focal point in the licensing process, with expectations that local exchanges will innovate further once licensing is finalized.

Understanding Türkiye’s Crypto Landscape

Zhou attributes Türkiye’s robust crypto adoption to its youthful population, economic conditions, and strategic location between Europe and Asia. The country’s inflation rates have driven interest in cryptocurrencies, particularly stablecoins. According to Chainalysis, Türkiye received nearly $200 billion in crypto value in 2025, making it the largest market in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Bybit has already begun localizing its offerings, introducing direct Turkish-lira spot pairs for major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether. Zhou acknowledged the strengths of both local and international exchanges, suggesting that partnerships with Turkish banks could enhance Bybit’s service offerings.

Learning from Experience: Security Enhancements Post-Hack

Security remains a top priority for Bybit, especially following the $1.46 billion hack in February 2025. Zhou revealed that the company has adopted a “zero trust” policy to mitigate risks associated with third-party interfaces. Bybit’s recent security measures have intercepted thousands of suspicious withdrawal requests, showcasing the exchange’s commitment to safeguarding user assets.

As Bybit continues to navigate the complexities of the Turkish market, Zhou’s vision for a super app reflects a broader trend in the crypto industry—one that seeks to integrate traditional financial services with innovative digital solutions.

With Türkiye’s crypto landscape ripe for growth, Bybit’s ambitious plans could reshape the future of finance in the region, making it a key player in the global crypto ecosystem.