• Coinbase has resumed operations in Hawaii following the state’s 2024  reforms.
  • Coinbase positions Hawaii as a more attractive hub for cryptocurrency activities.

Coinbase has re-entered the Hawaiian market after a seven-year interval. This move follows Hawaii’s relaxation of money transmitter licenses and cash reserves rules enabling residents to buy, sell, and manage digital assets. In 2017, Hawaii’s DFI imposed requirements that forced Coinbase to cease operations in the region.

The key regulatory shift occurred in June 2024 when the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) announced that cryptocurrency businesses no longer need a money transmitter license to operate in the region. 

Hawaii residents can now use Coinbase to buy, sell, and manage their crypto assets. The platform provides access to hundreds of cryptocurrencies and a range of services, including trading, staking, and international asset transfers. Coinbase’s staking feature allows users to earn up to 12% annual percentage yield (APY) on popular assets and up to 5.20% in rewards by holding USD Coin (USDC).

Coinbase’s return also brings advanced trading tools where professional traders can benefit from over 500 spot trading pairs with 0.0% maker fees,  powered by TradingView, and customizable APIs. The update aligns with the Digital Currency Innovation Lab (DCIL) project, which aims to explore and improve Hawaii’s crypto environment, leading to a supportive regulatory framework.

Coinbase’s Return Fuels Stock Surge and Crypto Reach

On August 5, the US SEC opposed Coinbase’s request for emails about securities laws. Coinbase’s Chief Legal Officer argued the documents were key to exposing the SEC’s inconsistent views. 

Moreover, Coinbase’s re-entry into Hawaii is accompanied by a noticeable 3.23%  surge in its stock price, reflecting positive investor sentiment. Following the announcement, Coinbase’s stock price spiked from $194.60 to $200.94, currently trading at $197.94.

Coinbase’s return, alongside Robinhood, also expanded its crypto services to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands in July. It signals a significant shift in the state’s approach to digital currencies. This regulatory shift makes Hawaii a more attractive hub for crypto businesses and enthusiasts, boosting digital economy growth.

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