TLDR
- Coinbase now allows New York residents to stake crypto assets like Ether and Solana.
- Coinbase credits Governor Kathy Hochul for providing regulatory clarity in New York.
- Residents in California, New Jersey, Maryland, and Wisconsin missed $130M in staking rewards.
- Coinbase is pursuing broader expansion of staking services across the U.S. after legal wins.
Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange, announced that New York residents can now participate in crypto staking and earn rewards on assets such as Ether (ETH) and Solana (SOL). This move follows regulatory approval from state authorities, allowing Coinbase to extend its staking services to the state.
The exchange credited Governor Kathy Hochul for providing clarity on the matter, which paved the way for this expansion. In its announcement, Coinbase emphasized the importance of this step in increasing financial accessibility for New Yorkers. The company also highlighted the challenges faced by residents in other states, who have missed out on staking rewards due to statewide bans.
Crypto Staking Now Available in New York
New York residents are now eligible to earn rewards from crypto staking on Coinbase. This opportunity includes staking on popular assets like Ether and Solana. By participating in staking, users can lock up their cryptocurrency to support blockchain networks and earn rewards over time.
Coinbase’s push to expand staking services into New York follows several successful legal outcomes. In 2023, several states filed lawsuits accusing Coinbase’s staking services of violating securities laws. However, state regulators in places like South Carolina, Alabama, Kentucky, and Illinois dropped their cases, signaling a shift in how these services are regulated.
Coinbase Expands Crypto Services After Legal Settlements
This expansion of staking services in New York marks a shift in Coinbase’s legal landscape. In recent months, several state regulators dismissed lawsuits against the exchange, which had raised concerns over whether its staking services violated securities laws. Following these dismissals, Coinbase resumed its staking offerings in certain states.
The approval from New York regulators is a positive outcome for Coinbase, as it demonstrates progress in the regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies. However, challenges remain in other regions, such as Oregon, where state authorities have filed lawsuits against the exchange. Despite this, Coinbase is optimistic about continuing to grow its staking services across the United States.
Missed Rewards Due to Statewide Bans on Staking
Coinbase also noted that residents in other states, including California, New Jersey, Maryland, and Wisconsin, have missed out on over $130 million in staking rewards because of state-level bans. The company advocates for equal access to crypto staking, arguing that state-specific regulations have created an uneven landscape for American residents.
According to Coinbase, the approval of staking services in New York represents a step toward leveling the playing field and ensuring that more Americans can access the financial benefits of crypto staking. Despite regulatory hurdles in certain states, the company remains committed to expanding its services nationwide.
Coinbase’s Future Plans in Crypto Services Expansion
Coinbase continues to expand its services beyond staking. The exchange recently applied for a National Trust Company Charter with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. While Coinbase has clarified that it does not intend to become a bank, this move reflects its broader efforts to bridge the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional finance.
This expansion strategy reflects Coinbase’s long-term goal of becoming a comprehensive “crypto super app,” as stated by CEO Brian Armstrong. Coinbase aims to provide a wide range of services that will allow users to invest, save, and spend in digital currencies, challenging the role of traditional financial institutions.
