Coinbase continues to list new memecoins ahead of institutional Bitcoin ETF custody milestone Coinbase continues to list new memecoins ahead of institutional Bitcoin ETF custody milestone
Coinbase plays balancing act with retail whimsy and institutional moves in crypto market.
2 min read
Updated: Dec. 14, 2023 at 1:04 pm UTC
Cover art/illustration via CryptoSlate. Image includes combined content which may include AI-generated content.
Coinbase recently announced its decision to add Bonk (BONK), a Solana network token, to its list of tradable assets, a move that adds a new memecoin to its platform amidst its involvement in institutional activities like the anticipated Bitcoin ETF custody with BlackRock.
Coinbase adds Solana-based dog token to tradeable assets.
Coinbase’s inclusion of BONK in its list of tradable assets marks a notable addition of a memecoin to its offerings, along with Shiba Inu and Dogecoin, which are in the top 20 digital assets by market cap. As of press time, BONK sits unironically in 69th position among all digital assets tracked by CryptoSlate. The integration of BONK commenced with transfer options in regions where trading is supported, starting from Dec. 14.
In parallel to adding new assets like BONK, Coinbase plays a significant institutional role in the crypto market. Notably, it’s involved in the operational framework of all current Bitcoin ETF filings, including BlackRock’s. This ETF, pending approval, is poised to be a milestone in integrating crypto with traditional financial markets.
Exchange’s pivotal role in institutional Bitcoin offerings.
As the custodian for BlackRock’s proposed Bitcoin ETF, Coinbase’s responsibilities include ensuring the security and operational efficiency of the ETF. These responsibilities are vital for compliance in the regulated U.S. securities market. Coinbase’s multifaceted roles – as a surveillance-sharing partner, custodian, prime broker, and custody provider for cash-to-Bitcoin conversion – highlight its capability to handle complex financial products.
The juxtaposition of these two developments – listing a new memecoin and involvement in a significant institutional Bitcoin ETF – presents an interesting dynamic within Coinbase’s operations. On the one hand, the addition of BONK emphasizes Coinbase’s commitment to catering to a wide range of traders and investors with varying interests in the crypto space. On the other hand, its role in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF signifies a deepening of crypto integration with traditional financial structures.
A balancing act between retail and institutional demand.
Coinbase’s approach to asset listing, focusing on legal, compliance, and technical security standards, applies across its diverse portfolio, from memecoins like BONK to more established cryptocurrencies. The platform’s policies appear to offer a comprehensive evaluation process, irrespective of an asset’s market capitalization or popularity. However, given the onslaught of charges by the SEC this year, some may be wary of Coinbase’s desire to increase its exposure to such speculative assets.
BONK is described as,
“The first dog-themed coin on Solana “for the people, by the people.”
Coinbase’s dual focus on retail and institutional aspects of the market suggests a strategy that aims to balance its user base’s diverse needs and interests.
The upcoming decision on Bitcoin ETFs, including BlackRock’s ETF with Coinbase’s involvement, is anticipated with great interest by the market. This decision is expected to have substantial implications for the broader acceptance and integration of cryptocurrencies in the traditional financial system.
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Author 
Liam 'Akiba' Wright
Also known as "Akiba," Liam Wright is a reporter, podcast producer, and Editor-in-Chief at CryptoSlate. He believes that decentralized technology has the potential to make widespread positive change.
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Bonk is the first Solana dog coin for the people, by the people with 50% of the total supply airdropped to the Solana community.
Bitcoin
$97,610.25
Bitcoin, a decentralized currency that defies the sway of central banks or administrators, transacts electronically, circumventing intermediaries via a peer-to-peer network.
Coinbase
Coinbase is a digital currency exchange and wallet service that allows individuals to buy, sell, and store digital currencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin.
