Investors to gain early access to tokens before listings via Coinbase

Coinbase has launched a new digital token offering platform, allowing investors to purchase tokens before they are officially listed on exchanges. The blockchain startup Monad will be the first project to debut on the platform, marking a significant step toward expanding token access in regulated markets.

Source WSJ

The new initiative aims to make early-stage token investments more transparent and compliant, targeting both institutional and retail investors. Coinbase says it will vet projects for legal and technical standards before any listings, providing an added layer of protection amid increasing scrutiny from U.S. regulators.

Analysts see the move as part of Coinbase’s broader strategy to lead innovation in decentralized finance (DeFi) while offering legitimate fundraising channels for emerging blockchain ventures. The launch also signals a renewed push by U.S. exchanges to capture market share in the pre-listing token sector, traditionally dominated by offshore platforms.