Coinbase Focuses on International Expansion Amidst US Regulatory Hurdles

• Rudolph Harmon
• October 6, 2023
• Bitcoin, Blockchain, Crypto
• Bitcoin, Coinbase, Crypto
• 0 Comments

As regulatory dynamics continue to evolve globally, the manner in which major platforms like Coinbase navigate these challenges will likely serve as a template for emerging crypto businesses.

Key Takeaways

• Coinbase is emphasizing an “international first” mentality, driven by a vision to onboard a billion users into crypto, focusing particularly on markets beyond the U.S.
• The VP of International Policy, Tom Duff Gordon, outlined Coinbase’s strategic emphasis on international expansion amidst a challenging U.S. regulatory climate during the Zebu Live 2023 conference.
• Registration with the Bank of Spain and obtaining an MPI license from Singapore’s MAS showcase the recent success of the “Go Broad, Go Deep” international strategy.

Coinbase is keenly focusing on international expansion, as highlighted by VP for International Policy, Tom Duff Gordon, while also navigating through the intricate U.S. regulatory framework. With the exchange’s vision of bringing a billion people into the crypto sphere, they are now adopting an “international first” mentality, substantiated by strategic moves such as registering with the Bank of Spain and obtaining licenses in several other countries. Despite the legal and regulatory struggles in the U.S., including a lawsuit from the SEC, Coinbase affirms its commitment to resolving regulatory discrepancies and continuing its operations within the U.S.

The shifting focus of Coinbase towards international markets underscores the impactful role that regulatory environments play in the growth and strategic alignment of crypto businesses. Given the ongoing regulatory challenges faced by the exchange within the U.S., diversifying its operational base across multiple, potentially more crypto-friendly jurisdictions, appears to be a strategic hedge against localized regulatory risks.

Coinbase Adopting 'International First Mentality', Says Policy Lead https://t.co/olh0cB1Wkw

— Psyborg® (@PsyborgNFT) October 6, 2023

Conclusion

Moreover, by expanding into varied international markets, Coinbase not only minimizes its regulatory risk but also taps into new customer bases, adhering to its vision of expanding crypto accessibility to a broad audience. This strategy of seeking out and establishing a presence in regions with a supportive stance towards cryptocurrency may serve as a benchmark for other platforms navigating through their own regulatory mazes.