Amid regulatory struggles in the United States, crypto exchange Coinbase has decided to expand its business abroad with a global platform. Following the news, crypto community members expressed their opinions, with some criticizing the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and others expressing confidence in crypto’s future. 

On May 2, the exchange announced the launch of Coinbase International Exchange (CIE), a crypto derivatives platform catering to institutional investors. Trading on the exchange will be offered to institutional clients in eligible jurisdictions outside the United States.

Coinbase has been preparing this move since March, as many U.S. regulators took aim at crypto firms for their perceived roles in the collapses of Silvergate Bank, Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. 

As the company’s international exchange was launched, various community members expressed their support for Coinbase and crypto’s growth worldwide. Tyler Winklevoss, the CEO of Gemini, which also recently launched a global derivatives platform, tweeted that “crypto is global” and said it’s important that everyone is leaning into this.

Meanwhile, a community member said Coinbase’s new move is a good step for crypto. “Crypto is the future and it is taking off, with or without certain countries who choose to over-regulate against crypto,” they tweeted. On Reddit, a community member believes that Coinbase made a great decision. According to the Redditor, it’s better for Coinbase to be safe than sorry.

Related: Coinbase officers, board members face suit over alleged insider trading during listing

While some celebrated the new development, others turned their pitchforks toward U.S. regulators. Community member Jesse Dow expressed dissatisfaction toward SEC chair Gary Gensler, accusing him of being “someone with an agenda.“

Moreover, CryptoLaw founder John Deaton claimed that the SEC has “failed miserably to protect investors.“ The lawyer said the commission had not maintained fair, orderly and efficient markets. 

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