Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong signaled growing interest in tokenized securities amid the shifting regulatory landscape under the Trump administration.
Speaking at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecom Conference earlier this week, Armstrong suggested that renewed dialogue with regulators could lead to advancements in tokenized assets, which would allow traditional financial instruments to be represented on blockchain networks.
Armstrong said:
“I’m now excited that we may be able to reengage those conversations with the SEC’s task force. We may be able to bring forward security tokens and some international products into the US market that have already seen broad adoption among global crypto traders.”
Tokenized securities
Tokenized securities, often seen as a bridge between traditional finance and blockchain technology, remain a complex regulatory challenge.
While countries such as Switzerland and Singapore have established frameworks to support their development, the SEC has maintained a cautious stance, frequently classifying digital assets as securities under existing laws.
Armstrong pointed to recent legislative momentum as a potential catalyst for regulatory clarity. The crypto industry has made significant policy strides, including the exchange’s legal victory against the SEC, which dismissed allegations that the firm operated as an unregistered securities exchange.
According to Armstrong:
“There’s a real opportunity to bring more assets on-chain and trade them in ways that are more efficient.”
He stressed that the potential for tokenized stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments to gain traction in regulated markets is very high.
Diversification
Coinbase has been an outspoken proponent of regulatory clarity, backing industry-focused lobbying efforts and Super PAC funding to support pro-crypto candidates. The company is also expanding its international presence, securing licenses in jurisdictions with clearer digital asset policies.
The potential integration of tokenized securities into Coinbase’s platform would align with its broader efforts to diversify revenue streams beyond traditional crypto trading.
Armstrong highlighted that the firm’s revenue from trading, stablecoins, and staking exceeded $700 million in 2024, with plans to scale additional financial services.
Despite the cautious optimism, tokenized securities face hurdles, including regulatory approval, compliance with financial reporting standards, and infrastructure integration with traditional markets.
Armstrong acknowledged that while Coinbase is eager to lead in this space, broader industry cooperation and regulatory engagement will be crucial. He said:
“If we can provide a compliant and efficient pathway for tokenizing financial assets, we’ll be unlocking significant value for both traditional institutions and the crypto economy.”
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