Robinhood Markets, the popular trading platform, has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its cryptocurrency offerings. The company announced the development of a new layer 2 blockchain and introduced a suite of financial products aimed at broadening its digital asset services. This move signals Robinhood’s continued effort to position itself as a major player in the crypto and decentralized finance space.
The announcement was made at a special event titled “Robinhood Presents: To Catch a Token” in Cannes, France, on June 30, 2025. Among the key revelations was the introduction of a layer 2 blockchain built on Arbitrum, designed to support the tokenization of real-world assets. This development aligns with the firm’s broader goal of integrating traditional finance with blockchain technology.
In addition to its new blockchain infrastructure, Robinhood is expanding its reach in the European Union with tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs. The company is also preparing to offer crypto perpetual futures and staking services, further enhancing its platform’s utility for both new and experienced users.
Introducing Robinhood’s Layer 2 Blockchain
A layer 2 blockchain operates on top of an existing blockchain—often referred to as the mainnet or layer 1—to improve scalability, reduce transaction costs, and increase processing speed. Robinhood’s decision to develop its layer 2 using Arbitrum’s technology underscores a strategic move toward enhancing user experience and expanding its ecosystem.
This new blockchain will primarily focus on real-world asset tokenization, allowing physical and traditional financial assets like stocks and commodities to be represented as digital tokens on a blockchain. Tokenization can improve liquidity, enable fractional ownership, and streamline transactions across global markets.
The layer 2 initiative reflects Robinhood’s intent to merge conventional trading with innovative crypto solutions. By leveraging Arbitrum’s established network, Robinhood aims to deliver a secure, efficient, and user-friendly environment for its customers.
Expansion of Tokenized Stock Offerings
Robinhood has officially launched tokenized U.S. stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for users in the European Union and European Economic Area. This offering is aimed at a potential user base of over 400 million people spread across 30 countries.
Tokenized stocks are digital representations of equity shares that exist on a blockchain. They allow users to gain exposure to traditional markets without direct share ownership, often with benefits such as faster settlement and broader accessibility. Initially, these tokens will be accessible via the Arbitrum network before transitioning to Robinhood’s proprietary layer 2 blockchain.
This move transforms Robinhood’s European app from a crypto-only platform into a comprehensive financial application offering both digital and traditional asset classes.
New Crypto Financial Products
Alongside its blockchain and stock tokenization efforts, Robinhood is introducing new crypto-based financial products. Among these are perpetual futures contracts for cryptocurrencies, which will offer EU-based users leverage of up to 3x. These derivatives products are slated for release during the summer of 2025.
The company is also launching crypto staking services in the United States, beginning with Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL). Staking allows users to participate in network validation and earn rewards by holding certain cryptocurrencies.
These additions are designed to attract a wider audience—from retail investors to advanced traders—by providing more avenues for engagement and earning within the Robinhood ecosystem.
Leadership’s Vision for the Future
Robinhood’s leadership has emphasized accessibility and innovation as central to these new developments. Vlad Tenev, Chairman and CEO of Robinhood, stated that these offerings “lay the groundwork for crypto to become the backbone of the global financial system.”
Johann Kerbrat, General Manager and SVP of Robinhood Crypto, echoed this sentiment, noting that the company aims to make crypto “as easy to use as possible” while integrating powerful tools into a single intuitive platform.
This user-centric approach appears geared toward demystifying digital assets and encouraging mainstream adoption.
Strategic Acquisitions and Market Positioning
Robinhood’s recent acquisitions highlight its aggressive strategy to expand its crypto footprint. The company acquired Bitstamp, a long-standing cryptocurrency exchange, earlier in 2025. Shortly after, it announced the all-cash purchase of WonderFi, a Canadian crypto firm, to strengthen its presence in North America.
These acquisitions, combined with its new product suite, indicate Robinhood’s commitment to becoming a dominant force in the global digital assets market. The integration of established platforms may also help Robinhood improve its regulatory compliance and technical infrastructure.
For a deeper look at how these technologies work and their potential impact, you can 👉 explore more strategies on integrating traditional and digital finance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a layer 2 blockchain?
A layer 2 blockchain is a secondary framework built on top of an existing blockchain. It is designed to enhance transaction throughput, reduce fees, and improve scalability while maintaining the security of the underlying mainnet.
How do tokenized stocks work?
Tokenized stocks are digital tokens that represent ownership in a traditional company or ETF. These tokens are blockchain-based, enabling fractional ownership, faster transactions, and increased accessibility for international investors.
What are perpetual futures in crypto?
Perpetual futures are derivative contracts that allow traders to speculate on the future price of cryptocurrencies without an expiration date. They often include leverage, which amplifies both potential gains and losses.
Is crypto staking available on Robinhood?
Yes, Robinhood has introduced staking services starting with Ethereum and Solana for users in the U.S. Staking lets participants earn rewards by holding and “staking” certain cryptocurrencies to support network operations.
Who can access Robinhood’s tokenized stocks?
Initially, tokenized stocks are available to users in the European Union and European Economic Area. The offering may expand to other regions based on regulatory approvals and market conditions.
Why did Robinhood choose Arbitrum for its layer 2?
Arbitrum is a well-established scaling solution known for its security, efficiency, and developer-friendly environment. This makes it a suitable foundation for Robinhood’s new blockchain aimed at asset tokenization.