Robinhood plans blockchain platform for EU users to trade U.S. stocks
Robinhood targets EU with tokenized stocks
Robinhood Markets, the popular online trading platform, is reportedly working on a blockchain-based platform that would grant retail investors in the European Union access to U.S.-listed stocks.
According to Bloomberg, the initiative would allow users to trade American securities, such as equities, and could significantly change how international investors interact with U.S. financial markets.
Sources familiar with the project say the trading infrastructure is being developed in partnership with a digital asset firm, though no formal agreement has been finalized. Two blockchain networks under consideration are Arbitrum, an Ethereum-based layer-2 solution, and Solana, a high-performance blockchain known for its speed and low transaction fees. Talks are ongoing, and the final technology partner has not yet been confirmed.
European expansion and strategic moves
Although Robinhood has not officially commented on the project, it aligns with the company’s broader strategy to expand its presence in Europe. In April, Robinhood obtained a brokerage license in Lithuania, enabling it to offer stock trading services across the EU. The company’s planned acquisition of crypto exchange Bitstamp would also provide access to Bitstamp’s MiFID trading license, paving the way for future crypto-derivatives offerings.
Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev previously hinted at the company’s blockchain ambitions during a podcast, noting that tokenizing traditional financial instruments could broaden global market participation—especially for non-U.S. investors who face hurdles when trying to access U.S. equities.
“I believe tokenized securities can really support U.S. company dominance in the global marketplace,” Tenev stated.
Growing interest in tokenized finance
Robinhood’s move reflects a broader institutional shift toward tokenized finance—the use of blockchain to represent real-world assets like stocks and bonds. Major players such as BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and Apollo have already launched tokenized funds. Notably, BlackRock’s BUIDL fund has attracted over $2 billion since launching in 2023.
As blockchain adoption grows, Robinhood’s upcoming platform could play a pivotal role in democratizing access to U.S. markets, cutting operational costs, and enhancing transparency through decentralized infrastructure.
It’s worth noting that Robinhood also recently launched options trading for clients in the United Kingdom, continuing its aggressive international expansion.
