According to Bloomberg, Coinbase — the leading cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S. — is getting closer to joining the S&P 500, one of the most important benchmarks reflecting the health of the U.S. economy and stock market.
If officially included, Coinbase would stand alongside the top 500 publicly listed U.S. companies, from tech giants like Apple and Amazon to Microsoft, marking a major milestone for the crypto industry.
To be added to this prestigious index, a company must meet strict criteria. It must have a minimum market capitalization of $15 billion, conduct the majority of its operations in the U.S., and meet rigorous financial requirements. The stock must have high trading volume, with at least 50% public float, and the company must have positive net income for four consecutive quarters. Additionally, the stock must be listed on reputable exchanges such as NASDAQ, NYSE, or Cboe.
Related: Coinbase Calls for Lifting Ban on SEC Staff Holding Cryptocurrency
The selection of S&P 500 members is handled by experts at S&P Dow Jones Indices, who review candidates periodically or when an existing company is removed. Any changes are announced just a few days in advance, often triggering a surge in stock price as ETFs tracking the index adjust their portfolios.
For Coinbase, inclusion in the S&P 500 — if confirmed — would not only be a historic milestone but also a strong signal of cryptocurrency’s growing integration into traditional finance.