Coinbase is moving beyond digital assets in the UK, launching trading of stocks listed on US exchanges and advancing its 'Everything Exchange' strategy in one of Europe's largest retail investment markets.
From August 6, eligible UK clients will gradually gain access to nearly 4,000 stocks through the same app they use to manage their cryptocurrency and fiat balances. Trading will be available 24 hours a day, five days a week, extending access beyond standard Wall Street trading sessions.
Users will be able to buy fractional shares from £1 and instantly fund orders using both British pounds and $USDC. Coinbase stated that stock trading will be commission-free, although other fees may apply depending on the trade structure.
'Now every Coinbase UK user can trade US company stocks and cryptocurrency in one app,' the company announced. It characterized the launch of this service as another step toward bridging the gap between traditional investments and digital assets.
Coinbase Expands Range of Financial Services in the UK
The launch of the stock trading service followed the release of cryptocurrency-backed savings and loan products in the UK. Together, they are part of Coinbase's efforts to evolve into a broader financial platform rather than maintaining a sole focus on token trading.
UK Managing Director Keith Grose stated that the company is positioning itself as an all-in-one platform for trading stocks, cryptocurrencies, saving, and related services.
This move also followed Coinbase's acquisition of authorization to provide investment services in the UK under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID). The Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) approval allows the company to offer regulated services related to financial instruments, including stocks and derivatives.
This authorization opens a clearer path for Coinbase into traditional markets, with its activities falling under rules concerning consumer protection and market integrity.
Extended Trading Hours Aimed at Attracting Retail Investors
Coinbase is betting that simplified access and extended hours will encourage more UK clients to invest in stocks.
According to the company, survey results show that UK retail investor participation in the stock market is lower than that of their US counterparts. By placing stocks alongside cryptocurrency balances, Coinbase aims to reduce barriers between these two asset classes.
'Cryptocurrency markets operate 24/7, without breaks for weekends or holidays,' Coinbase notes in its blog. 'By launching stock trading on a 24/5 basis, Coinbase is expanding access and increasing the hours for traditional stock trading for UK users.'
Coinbase One members will also continue to receive unlimited rewards on eligible $USDC balances used on the platform.
This launch marks a notable shift for the company initially focused on cryptocurrencies. Coinbase is no longer asking clients to choose between digital assets and traditional markets. The company is building a platform designed to handle both, betting that investors increasingly expect this distinction to fade.
