Brian Armstrong: Coinbase is ‘misunderstood’ amid Wall Street’s crypto divide

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong recently addressed skepticism from Wall Street, describing the platform as 'misunderstood' and undervalued as it confronts the traditional financial sector's 'innovator's dilemma' with the rise of digital assets. Despite facing questions about stock sales and strategies, Armstrong highlighted Coinbase’s robust year-over-year trading volume with a 156% increase and a doubling of market share in 2025. He pointed out that assets on the platform have tripled over three years, noting the success of 12 revenue-generating products. Armstrong stressed that some major institutions are integrating crypto services, with five of the GSIB banks starting collaboration with Coinbase, signaling a shift as regulatory clarity unfolds. However, criticisms surfaced, particularly about Armstrong's personal stock transactions and perceived lack of commitment to the Ethereum ecosystem. Advancing their defense, Coinbase cited its revenue diversification and expanded institutional engagement, insisting on long-term prospects amid the evolving financial landscape.