Coinbase CEO Predicts All Assets Will Go On-Chain, Starting with Large Companies

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong believes all assets will eventually go on-chain, making them more efficient. He thinks this transition will start with large companies using blockchain to raise capital, followed by other companies and exchanges offering crypto derivatives based on those assets. Armstrong is optimistic about the future of crypto and its potential to transform traditional financial markets and systems.

Coinbase Global (COIN) has made significant strides in its mission to unite centralized and decentralized finance (DeFi) by rolling out an integrated decentralized exchange (DEX) trading feature within its main app for U.S. users, excluding those in New York State. This enhancement allows users to trade Base-native tokens and a vast range of decentralized assets directly within the Coinbase app [1].

The new DEX feature expands the range of tokens accessible to users, moving from around 300 listed tokens to potentially millions of on-chain assets that can be traded within moments of their creation. By eliminating the delays typical of conventional listing processes, Coinbase gives developers launching tokens on the Base network immediate market access, fostering faster liquidity growth and adoption for new projects [1].

Coinbase's move to incorporate DEX functionality directly into its app empowers users with greater control and faster access to emerging assets, reinforcing its role as a key entry point into DeFi markets. This aligns with the company's long-term goal of becoming the definitive all-in-one platform for trading and managing digital assets [1].

In parallel, Coinbase has made a notable comeback in India after a period of regulatory turbulence. The company has officially registered with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), allowing it to operate under local compliance frameworks. This marks a strategic shift from its earlier exit in 2022, when it halted services due to issues with UPI integration and regulatory uncertainty [2].

Indian users can reportedly send, receive, convert, and store supported cryptocurrencies on Coinbase, with full trading services expected to roll out later this year following further regulatory alignment. Coinbase emphasizes high security standards, including 2FA, cold storage, and insurance protection, making it a safer option compared to unregulated platforms [2].

While Coinbase's re-entry into the Indian market is a positive development, it faces limitations and challenges. Trading is still restricted for Indian users, and transaction fees on Coinbase tend to be higher than local exchanges like CoinDCX or Binance India [2].

Coinbase's strategic vision for India is to empower local builders through tools like Base, its Ethereum Layer 2 platform, and to tap into the country’s growing developer base and startup ecosystem. The company aims to become a key hub for on-chain innovation in India [2].

In the competitive landscape of crypto exchanges, Coinbase stands out with its comprehensive platform and strategic vision. However, it faces competition from exchanges like CoinDCX and Binance India, which offer full trading access and lower fees in India [2].

In summary, Coinbase's expansion of DEX trading and re-entry into the Indian market are significant steps towards its vision of a unified financial ecosystem. These moves underscore the company's commitment to innovation and growth, positioning it as a key player in the evolving crypto landscape.

References:
[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/coinbase-adds-dex-trading-unlock-171200044.html
[2] https://www.indianweb2.com/2025/08/coinbase-reboots-in-india-fiu-nod.html