Coinbase is exploring the potential of bringing tokenized shares of its stock (COIN) to US users via Base, its Ethereum layer-2 network. This announcement, made by Base developer Jesse Pollak on the X platform, marks a bold step toward integrating traditional financial assets into blockchain ecosystems.
Tokenized COIN shares are already accessible to non-US users through platforms like Backed, a real-world asset (RWA) tokenization protocol. Pollak hinted at plans to expand this offering domestically, stating on January 3, “COIN on Base is something we are looking into in the new year.” He added that the ultimate vision is for “every asset in the world” to be available on Base.
While promising, these plans remain in the exploratory phase. Coinbase currently lacks a concrete roadmap for US availability, citing the need to navigate a complex regulatory landscape. Pollak emphasized the importance of “regulatory clarity and improvements” to unlock the full potential of on-chain assets for US users.
Notably, Base has seen a massive growth in 2024, outpacing major networks, as TheCoinRise reported.
Tokenized Assets on Base: A New Frontier?
Tokenized RWAs represent a massive $600 billion global market opportunity, according to experts. The potential for blockchain to transform traditional finance has gained increasing traction, especially as institutions look to bridge the gap between decentralized and traditional markets.
Coinbase’s interest in tokenizing its stock comes amid a broader industry push to increase accessibility to traditional assets through blockchain technology. Pollak’s comments align with a growing belief that tokenization will democratize financial markets by lowering barriers to entry and enhancing liquidity.
Regulatory Clarity
Despite the enthusiasm, regulatory uncertainty in the United States remains a significant challenge. Under the Biden administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has pursued over 100 enforcement actions against crypto companies, creating a challenging environment for innovation.
However, industry players see hope on the horizon. Analysts anticipate that the incoming Trump administration may adopt a more crypto-friendly stance, potentially alleviating regulatory pressures on firms like Coinbase. In November, following Trump’s election victory, COIN stock surged over 20%, surpassing $300 for the first time since 2021.
“Legislative progress in the US is lagging behind other major jurisdictions,” Citi noted in a December research report. Yet, with growing calls for a comprehensive regulatory framework, Coinbase’s exploration of tokenized COIN shares could signal a pivotal moment for the adoption of tokenized securities in the United States.
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