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Coinbase Trades Crypto for Stocks & Event Contracts
18 Dec
Summary
- Coinbase is expanding beyond cryptocurrency to offer stock and event contract trading.
- This move aims to diversify revenue and compete with brokerage platforms like Robinhood.
- Regulatory uncertainty surrounds event contracts, with varied state-level oversight.
Coinbase announced on Wednesday, December 17th, that it will begin offering trading in stocks and event contracts, marking a significant expansion beyond its core cryptocurrency offerings. This strategic pivot aims to consolidate various asset classes onto a single platform, enhancing user convenience and broadening its market appeal.
The exchange's move into event contracts, which allow wagers on real-world outcomes, places it in direct competition with established players like Robinhood and Interactive Brokers. Despite concerns about a crowded market, Coinbase's head of consumer products expressed confidence in attracting both existing and new customers.
This diversification occurs amid heightened regulatory scrutiny for event contracts. While Coinbase advocates for consistent rules, some state regulators have raised concerns about their resemblance to betting. Coinbase also plans to launch tokenized stocks soon, enabling round-the-clock trading.
