Coinbase, the largest U.S.-based crypto trading platform, has seen its stock rise 52% since late October, driven by optimism surrounding Donald Trump's election and a more pro-crypto Congress. With ambitions to become the Amazon of crypto, Coinbase aims to expand its offerings beyond trading to include infrastructure, payment services, and financial products like stablecoins. The departure of SEC Chair Gary Gensler and the appointment of pro-crypto Paul Atkins have sparked hope for an end to regulatory challenges, including an ongoing SEC lawsuit. This shift could enable Coinbase to grow its alt-coin and staking services, despite competition from platforms like Robinhood and lingering market risks.

*Source: Barron's, December 27, 2024.*