Coinbase Global Becomes First Crypto Exchange to Join S&P 500 in Watershed Moment

^{Photo credit: David McBee, Pexels}

On May 19, 2025, Coinbase Global Inc. officially joined the S&P 500, marking a historic moment as it became the first cryptocurrency exchange to be listed in the US benchmark index. It has taken the place of Discover Financial Services, which was acquired by Capital One, opening a position for Coinbase.

The S&P 500 index is widely used as a benchmark of the US economy. The stock market index tracks the performance of 500 leading companies listed on US stock exchanges and has stringent requirements for inclusion. Considering this context and US President Donald Trump’s proclaimed pro-crypto stance, Coinbase’s inclusion marks a key shift in how digital assets are regarded in the United States. It also indicates a move toward the further legitimization of digital asset platforms around the world.

Ilya Brovin, Chief Growth Officer at Sumsub:

This is a defining moment for crypto. It marks a turning point where digital assets are no longer on the fringes of finance—they’re becoming integral to the mainstream system. What was once viewed as a Wild West is now steadily establishing itself as part of the global financial architecture.

Coinbase’s stock price has surged since the announcement of its inclusion on the S&P 500 index. This is an indication of significant investor confidence and trust in the company, which is especially notable when considered in tandem with the recent cyber-attack on Coinbase.

S&P’s inclusion marks the increasing integration of digital assets into mainstream financial markets, reflecting a broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies in many markets around the world.