CEO says when cryptocurrencies mature, Nasdaq would consider becoming a platform for trading cryptos
Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman said in an interview with CNBC’s Squawk Box that the company would consider to becoming a platform for trading cryptocurrencies like bitcoin once the space matures.
“Certainly Nasdaq would consider becoming a crypto exchange over time, 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.”
The main reason why Nasdaq has not yet entered the sector is due to the lack of regulation, and this needed to be resolved first.
Friedman was less optimistic thou when discussing initial coin offering, or ICO.
“ICOs need to be regulated,” she said. “The SEC is right that those are securities and need to be regulated as such.”
In a separate announcement, Nasdaq has announced a new collaboration with Gemini Trust Co., a cryptocurrency exchange founded by the Winklevoss twins.
Gemini has hired Nasdaq to conduct market surveillance for Bitcoin and Ether trading as well as the auction that helps price CBOE Global Markets.
In a statement, Gemini CEO Tyler Winklevoss said that the deal provides Gemini access to Nasdaq’s surveillance technology.
