The SEC is reportedly advancing a plan to allow blockchain-based stock trading, which could benefit platforms like Coinbase and Robinhood while raising concerns among traditional financial firms about potential market disruptions and compliance issues. Tokenized stocks would enable investors to purchase shares in the form of tokens, streamlining trade settlements but also introducing new risks. However, legacy financial players may challenge the SEC, delaying the implementation of this initiative.

Robinhood's stock has surged back to record highs, largely driven by a significant boom in the cryptocurrency market. The company's revival is attributed to increased trading activity among retail investors, who are capitalizing on the recent rise in digital asset values.

Coinbase's stock fell 7% after the company reported disappointing Q2 earnings, posting $1.5 billion in revenue, which was below analysts' expectations of $1.59 billion. The decline in transaction revenue by 39% from the previous quarter reflects the company's vulnerability to crypto market fluctuations, despite its efforts to diversify its offerings.