The advertisement titled 'Everything is Fine' from Coinbase was banned in the UK, sparking a broad public discussion and debates about cryptocurrency's place in the financial system.
What Was the Coinbase Advertisement About?
On July 31, 2025, Coinbase launched an advertisement titled 'Everything is Fine.' The ad employs sarcasm to address serious issues faced in the UK, such as the high cost of living, an ineffective financial system, and public dissatisfaction with the Labour government. The campaign draws attention to wealthy individuals leaving the country and highlights the rising popularity of Bitcoin, suggesting that cryptocurrency could provide a more reliable solution amid traditional financial instability.
Why Was the Campaign Banned in the UK?
UK TV networks banned the ad, claiming it was too political and misleading. This decision reflects past controversies regarding Coinbase's advertisements, as the Advertising Standards Authority had previously banned a similar Coinbase wallet advertisement for being unclear. Although the 'Everything is Fine' campaign did not support any political party, regulators argued it negatively portrayed the government and encouraged crypto promotion that could mislead the public.
Brian Armstrong’s Response and Public Reactions
Brian Armstrong, the CEO of Coinbase, responded vigorously to the criticism in a post, defending the ad and asserting that 'if you can’t say it, then there must be a kernel of truth in it.' He emphasized that the message is about correcting a broken system. Public reactions varied, with supporters from the Bitcoin community praising the boldness of the campaign, while critics deemed it disrespectful. Experts noted the ad could lead to long-term discussions on financial reforms and digital currency adoption.
The ad ban has become a significant topic touching on politics, finance, and free speech. As discussions around cryptocurrency and financial systems grow, the conversations ignited by the advertising campaign remain highly relevant.