Coinbase takes a significant step toward merging traditional finance with blockchain by seeking SEC approval for tokenized stocks.
SEC Approval and Tokenized Stocks
Coinbase has submitted a request to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for approval to list tokenized stocks. These security tokens operate like conventional equities but offer faster liquidity, greater transparency, and easier global access. This move follows the SEC's withdrawal of its complaint against Coinbase in February 2025, which claimed that the company was operating as an unregistered broker.
Expansion into Europe
Coinbase is also actively expanding its presence in Europe and is in the final stages of obtaining a MiCA license, which would allow it to offer services across the European Union. CEO Brian Armstrong has cited Luxembourg as a strategic base for the company's European operations due to its regulatory consistency and innovation climate.
Innovations and Strategic Initiatives
Coinbase is developing its payment strategy and providing stablecoin APIs and platform integration with partners like Shopify. Armstrong noted that stablecoins are becoming one of the fastest and most affordable ways to move money globally. The company is also working on an open protocol called X402, which will facilitate microtransactions without the need for user accounts.
Coinbase is actively working on integrating tokenized stocks and expanding its services on a global scale, reflecting the company’s ambition to lead the transition into blockchain-based financial markets.
