Robinhood Launches Tokenized Share Trading for European Customers in 2025

Robinhood has launched a new tokenized share trading service for its European customers, offering over 200 U.S. stocks as digital tokens starting July 2025. This initiative, led by Vlad Tenev and Johann Kerbrat, aims to democratize finance by making crypto a pivotal part of the global financial system. Tenev emphasized the vision of crypto becoming the backbone of global finance, while Kerbrat focused on simplifying crypto access through an intuitive platform.

The launch introduces over 200 U.S. stocks as digital tokens, initially hosted on the Arbitrum Layer 2 network. This move enhances scalability and security under Ethereum's infrastructure, potentially opening new revenue streams for Robinhood and increasing market activity on Arbitrum. It also reflects a shift towards blockchain-based asset tokenization in traditional finance sectors.

The broader implications of this launch extend to Ethereum, as it is the base protocol for Arbitrum. While regulatory attention is anticipated, no official statements from European authorities have been issued thus far. Past tokenized equity initiatives suggest potential growth in transaction volumes, and analysts predict increased adoption of real-world asset tokenization, supported by Robinhood's strategic steps in blockchain infrastructure development.

Robinhood's new service allows customers in the European Union to trade tokenized shares of more than 200 U.S. stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The tokenized shares, built initially on the Arbitrum network, provide 24/5 access, dividend support, and zero commission or spread from Robinhood. These tokens are set to eventually migrate to a custom Layer 2 blockchain designed to support tokenized assets, seamless bridging, and self-custody.

The launch coincides with Robinhood's latest regulatory approvals across Europe and its participation in the Ethereum Community Conference. Johann Kerbrat, Robinhood's crypto chief, played a pivotal role in this development. His background in fintech and passion for solving real-world problems have driven this initiative. Kerbrat's journey from a young programmer to a senior vice president at Robinhood is a testament to his dedication and vision, inspired by the fragility and high costs of the global financial system.

Robinhood's new Layer 2 blockchain is optimized for real-world asset settlement and 24/7 trading, aiming to make crypto feel as seamless and intuitive as trading stocks. In the U.S., Robinhood is debuting staking for Ethereum and Solana, allowing users to earn rewards by supporting network operations. In Europe, crypto perpetual futures will offer eligible users up to 3x leverage, routed through Bitstamp. Other upgrades include smart exchange routing, tax lot management, and advanced charting tools, all designed to enhance the user experience.

The goal of this expansion is to make crypto a seamless part of everyday financial activities, accessible to a broader audience without the need for technical knowledge. Kerbrat likens it to the expectation of water flowing from a tap without thinking about the plumbing. This approach aims to make crypto a seamless part of everyday financial activities, accessible to a broader audience without the need for technical knowledge.

Robinhood's latest move is a significant step towards blending traditional finance with blockchain-based infrastructure. The company's shares hit a record high following the announcement, reflecting investor confidence in its strategic direction. The expansion of tokenized trading to thousands of stocks and the introduction of 24/7 trading by the end of the year are part of Robinhood's broader vision to democratize access to financial markets. This initiative aligns with the company's mission to make investing accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical expertise or financial background. By leveraging blockchain technology, Robinhood aims to create a more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly financial ecosystem.