360 Blockchain Inc (CSE:CODE, OTCMKTS:BKLLF) says it's adding to the '360 family' - as it's poised to buy the ICORanker.com and BlockchainRanker.com websites in a deal valued at US$2.25mln in cash and shares.
The former has, among others, a list of the top cryptocurrency ICOs and active Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs).
Meanwhile, BlockchainRanker.com is a pre-revenue website that vets and rates blockchain platforms, services and software providers.
According to a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers', token sales raised US$13.7bn in the first five months of 2018, more than doubling the total funds raised during 2017.
ICOs are past the "hype cycle," PwC said, and "are becoming more mature and established".
"ICORanker is a profitable editorial property." said Jeff Koyen, 360's strategic advisor.
"This deal supports our strong belief that the token sale ecosystem has a bright future as regulatory clarity clears the path for retail and institutional investors to participate."
Expected to relaunch under 360's management in the third quarter, BlockchainRanker will refocus revenue efforts on highly lucrative lead generation and referral programmes.
Both websites will be managed by Koyen with small teams distributed internationally.
"Just a fraction of Canada's public blockchain companies are posting revenue this year," said George Tsafalas, 360's CEO.
"By adding ICORanker to the 360 family, we are diversifying our holdings in a manner that puts revenue on the books immediately. Looking forward, we're very excited to support the growth of these outstanding opportunities."