Did Coinbase Execute a $100M Transaction to Test Proprietary Trading? Uncovering the Truth
Recent reports have surfaced questioning whether Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase (COIN) engaged in proprietary trading. The buzz stems from a Wall Street Journal report suggesting a $100 million transaction was executed as a test of such efforts. Let\'s delve into the details.
The $100 Million Transaction: Test or Actual Proprietary Trading?
According to the Wall Street Journal (22 de sept. de 2025), Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase (COIN) completed a $100 million transaction as a test of its proprietary trading efforts earlier this year. Citing "people at the company," the WSJ (22 de sept. de 2025) wrote that Coinbase made this $100-million transaction that was viewed inside the company as a test trade.
Coinbase Global (NASDAQ: COIN), America\'s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, wrapped up a $100M transaction earlier in 2025 to test its client and the group completed a $100 million transaction earlier this year that it viewed as a test trade, but ultimately decided against pursuing proprietary trading, according to the report (22 de sept. de 2025).
Coinbase\'s Response and Stance
Coinbase maintains that it does not engage in proprietary trading. However, the 20 de sept. de 2025 report states: “Coinbase disclosed that almost twenty percent of executed volume on its platform was attributable to its own trading.” The distinction lies in what constitutes "own trading." Did this include market making or solely client facilitation?
Key Personnel and Strategy
Adding to the intrigue, 22 de sept. de 2025 reports indicate that Coinbase had hired at least four senior Wall Street traders and had launched a group to generate profit. This fuels speculation about the company\'s intentions and strategic direction, even if proprietary trading was ultimately abandoned. It is worth noting that 22 de sept. de 2025 the company ultimately decided against pursuing proprietary trading.
Conclusion: Uncertainty Remains
While Coinbase denies engaging in proprietary trading, the $100 million transaction and the hiring of Wall Street veterans raise questions. Whether it was a genuine test of proprietary trading or a strategic move in a different direction, the situation highlights the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency exchanges and their potential involvement in market activities. Further investigation and official statements from Coinbase will be crucial in clarifying the true nature of this transaction.