The blockchain industry experienced increased growth of $33 billion in 2025, driven by increased adoption of the technology and other positive factors. Amid this encouraging growth, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has made a remarkable note on why private firms should go public on blockchain, rather than staying isolated without much attention.
Capital formation must be easier for private firms: Coinbase CEO
For Brian Armstrong, private firms should go public through blockchain technology, given its unique features. Several startup firms, although popular due to investor demand, remain private due to stricter regulations. In his words, regulations for private firms and startups to go public are expensive and stringent.
This can have unintended consequences, as private firms or startups are pushed to remain private longer than they expect. In brief, regulations are causing firms to delay moving forward.
Why regulations block startups from going public
As mentioned, regulations are typically costly and strict to approach. Besides, it is time-consuming for firms to get licenses to go public. Once a company goes public, it must follow strict obligations and face public scrutiny, which also adds to the reasons why firms stay private.
Coinbase CEO specifically added, “When they go public, price performance often isn’t great. There’s no liquid market setting proper valuations early in the lifecycle.”
Blockchain is the one-stop solution
As going public is an uphill battle, Brian Armstrong puts forward blockchain as an easy solution, where firms can move on-chain using any reliable blockchain platform. In this scenario, private firms do not have to worry about hurdles to going public, as blockchain is very cheap, reduces friction, and lets more investors put their funds in as early as possible.
In traditional financing, wealthy people typically invest in firms. However, when a firm moves on-chain, regular investors, including everyday participants, can also take part in early-stage investment.
Moreover, blockchain is transparent and fairer, making all the data visible and traceable.
With an optimistic tone, Armstrong added: “Eventually, you’ll be able to go public entirely onchain, which will dramatically lower costs, reduce friction, and increase access. Hopefully very soon!”
