Nasdaq 'Would Consider' Creating a Crypto Exchange, Says CEO

The CEO of Nasdaq suggested Wednesday that the company could open a cryptocurrency exchange in the future.

AccessTimeIconApr 25, 2018 at 4:45 p.m. UTC
Updated Sep 13, 2021 at 7:52 a.m. UTC
10 Years of Decentralizing the Future
May 29-31, 2024 - Austin, TexasThe biggest and most established global hub for everything crypto, blockchain and Web3.Register Now

The CEO of Nasdaq suggested Wednesday that the company could open a cryptocurrency exchange in the future.

The subject came up in an interview with CNBC, during which CEO Adena Friedman expressed openness to the idea.

"Certainly Nasdaq would consider becoming a crypto exchange over time," Friedman remarked, adding:

"If we do look at it and say 'it's time, people are ready for a more regulated market,' for something that provides a fair experience for investors... I believe that digital currencies will continue to persist it's just a matter of how long it will take for that space to mature. Once you look at it and say, 'do we want to provide a regulated market for this?' Certainly Nasdaq would consider it."

While Nasdaq is unlikely to launch such a service anytime soon, the company is no stranger to the tech itself. In addition to playing home to several blockchain-focused ETFs as well as public companies that are focused on the technology, Nasdaq has a long-standing relationship with blockchain startup Chain.

And as previously reported, the company has worked on technology applications, as demonstrated through patent filings. For example, the company was awarded a patent in October for a data-matching system that employs blockchain as a means to track trades and clearing positions.

Nasdaq sign image via Shutterstock

Disclosure

Please note that our privacy policy, terms of use, cookies, and do not sell my personal information has been updated.

CoinDesk is an award-winning media outlet that covers the cryptocurrency industry. Its journalists abide by a strict set of editorial policies. In November 2023, CoinDesk was acquired by the Bullish group, owner of Bullish, a regulated, digital assets exchange. The Bullish group is majority-owned by Block.one; both companies have interests in a variety of blockchain and digital asset businesses and significant holdings of digital assets, including bitcoin. CoinDesk operates as an independent subsidiary with an editorial committee to protect journalistic independence. CoinDesk employees, including journalists, may receive options in the Bullish group as part of their compensation.


Learn more about Consensus 2024, CoinDesk's longest-running and most influential event that brings together all sides of crypto, blockchain and Web3. Head to consensus.coindesk.com to register and buy your pass now.