Coinbase, the San Francisco-based cryptocurrency exchange, has announced the launch of a new service called Coinbase International Exchange. This new platform will enable institutional users outside the United States to trade bitcoin and ethereum perpetual futures, initially offering futures settled in USDC with up to 5x leverage. The move follows Coinbase’s approval to operate digital currency operations in Bermuda, granted by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA).
In a blog post, the company stated that building a global perpetual futures exchange for digital assets supports the updating of the financial system by making Coinbase’s trusted products and services more accessible to international users. As more markets develop crypto-friendly regulatory frameworks, Coinbase believes the moment is right to launch this international exchange.
However, while the launch of Coinbase International Exchange is hailed as a positive move for cryptocurrency adoption, there are some concerns. The entrance of yet another player in the perpetual futures market could create increased competition, potentially leading to more volatile prices and, ultimately, potential challenges for retail traders. On the other hand, increased adoption of cryptocurrencies could be an indicator of shifting attitudes among institutions, potentially influencing global regulatory landscapes.
The company maintains that the Coinbase International Exchange provides a liquidation framework that meets rigorous compliance standards and will provide real-time 24/7 trading and liquidity from external market makers. Interestingly, this announcement comes after Coinbase received a Wells notice from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for potential violations. In response to the notice, the company filed an action suit against the SEC, alleging a lack of regulatory clarity.
Coinbase has expressed its disappointment in the United States’ approach to regulating cryptocurrencies, noting that it would prefer the country to take a similar approach to other jurisdictions that are moving forward with crypto-forward regulatory frameworks instead of regulation by enforcement.
In conclusion, the launch of Coinbase International Exchange represents a significant development in the global cryptocurrency space. While the company has faced regulatory challenges in the United States, it is striving to establish a strong presence in international markets due to favorable regulatory environments. This move could spur the growth and adoption of cryptocurrencies among institutional users worldwide. However, it remains to be seen how the global regulatory landscape will evolve to accommodate this new player and the potential ramifications for different market participants.
Source: news.bitcoin.com
