Nasdaq Repurposes Crypto Tech for New Markets, Calls on Lawmakers for New York Listings

• Nasdaq is repurposing its cryptocurrency technology for carbon markets and other emerging assets, offering an institutional-grade platform instead of a custodian service due to regulatory constraints
• Despite halting its digital asset license pursuit, Nasdaq continues building cryptotech for clients.
• US exchange operators benefit from UK startups listing in NY instead of LDN, and Nasdaq is open to collaborating with lawmakers to make the region more attractive for listings, as Europe’s structural issues hinder listings.

Nasdaq Charts New Course with Repurposed Tech

Nasdaq, the leading stock exchange operator, is set to repurpose the technology it developed for its abandoned cryptocurrency custodian business in the US to expand into new emerging markets.

“We’re still going to launch it but we’re going to launch it as a technology service,”

Tal Cohen

The company’s co-president, Tal Cohen, revealed in an interview with Bloomberg Television that Nasdaq would launch the technology service instead of pursuing a license for the digital asset business due to regulatory pressures. The move is aimed at attracting more clients to new assets, such as carbon.

Expansion Plans in Carbon Markets

Nasdaq’s decision to repurpose its crypto tech for new markets comes as the company looks to expand into carbon markets. Cohen stated that Nasdaq’s institutional-grade end-to-end technology platform would power not only digital assets but also markets like carbon. The move is part of Nasdaq’s efforts to stay ahead of the curve in emerging markets and provide its clients with a competitive edge.

Nasdaq’s Call to Lawmakers for New York Listings

Tal Cohen, has called on lawmakers to make New York a more attractive destination for listings by UK startups. Cohen cited structural issues in Europe, including tax regimes, onerous regulations, and fragmentation, as major barriers to listing in London.

“In Europe, I think you’re facing structural issues around tax regimes, onerous regulations, a lot of fragmentation, complexity,”

Nasdaq has benefited from UK startups choosing to debut on public markets in New York instead of London, and Cohen’s call to lawmakers is part of the company’s efforts to maintain its market share and attract more clients.