Robinhood has announced a significant expansion of its cryptocurrency services, introducing a series of new initiatives designed to broaden its digital asset offerings. The company is developing its proprietary blockchain network and launching tokenized stock trading, marking a strategic move into the decentralized finance (DeFi) space.
Tokenized Stock Trading on Arbitrum
On June 30, Robinhood launched tokenized stock products for European users, built on the Arbitrum network—an Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution. This offering includes over 200 U.S. stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), enabling 24/7 trading during weekdays. According to the company’s official statement, this upgrade transforms its European crypto application into a “crypto-driven all-in-one investment platform.”
The tokenized assets represent ownership in underlying securities and are designed to provide users with greater flexibility and accessibility to traditional financial markets through blockchain technology.
Robinhood Chain: A Dedicated Layer 2 Network
In addition to the tokenized stock launch, Robinhood confirmed the development of a dedicated Layer 2 blockchain network optimized for tokenized assets. This new chain, built using Arbitrum’s technology stack, aims to support features such as:
- Non-stop trading capabilities
- Self-custody solutions
- Cross-chain transfers for tokenized assets
Although an official launch date has not been announced, industry sources suggest the network could go live by late 2025 or early 2026. The provisional name for this blockchain is “Robinhood Chain.”
Pioneering Non-Listed Company Stock Tokens
Robinhood EU also introduced the world’s first tokenized shares for non-listed companies, including OpenAI and SpaceX. This initiative allows investors to gain exposure to high-profile private companies through tokenized ownership, further blurring the lines between traditional and digital finance.
Broader Industry Developments
Apple Explores External AI for Siri
In a notable shift in strategy, Apple is considering integrating external artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance Siri’s capabilities. The company has held discussions with AI firms Anthropic and OpenAI about leveraging their large language models (LLMs). Apple has requested customized versions of these models to operate on its cloud infrastructure.
While Apple has been developing its in-house “Apple Foundation Models” and plans to launch a new voice assistant based on this technology by 2026, the exploration of external options indicates a flexible approach to AI development. An internal project, “LLM Siri,” remains under active development.
Meta Reorganizes AI Division for “Super Intelligence”
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a major reorganization of the company’s AI division, now named the “Meta Superintelligence Labs” (MSL). This new unit will focus on developing advanced AI systems capable of performing tasks at or beyond human levels. Alexandr Wang, former CEO of Scale AI, will lead the department as Chief AI Officer, with GitHub ex-CEO Nat Friedman co-leading product and applied research efforts.
Musk Advocates for New Political Party
Elon Musk has called for the establishment of a new political party in the United States, criticizing recent fiscal policies and record-level debt increases. A social media poll initiated by Musk showed over 80% support for the idea among respondents.
Corporate Earnings and Trade Policy
Goldman Sachs analysts warn that U.S. corporate profitability faces significant pressure in the upcoming earnings season due to increased tariff costs. While companies are expected to pass most of these costs to consumers, higher-than-expected absorption could squeeze profit margins.
Luckin Coffee’s Expansion
Luckin Coffee is investing 3 billion yuan to build an innovation industrial park in Xiamen. The facility, expected to be one of the world’s largest single-site coffee roasting plants, will feature advanced automation equipment with an annual roasting capacity of 55,000 tons.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are tokenized stocks?
Tokenized stocks are digital representations of traditional equities issued on a blockchain. They enable fractional ownership, 24/7 trading, and seamless transfer while being backed by actual securities.
How does Robinhood’s tokenized stock trading work?
Robinhood uses Arbitrum’s Layer 2 network to offer European users tokenized versions of U.S. stocks and ETFs. These tokens can be traded around the clock on weekdays, with each token representing a share in the underlying asset.
What is a Layer 2 blockchain?
Layer 2 networks are built on top of existing blockchains (like Ethereum) to improve scalability, reduce transaction fees, and enhance speed. They process transactions off-chain before settling results on the main network.
Why is Apple considering external AI for Siri?
Apple’s exploration of third-party AI models aims to accelerate Siri’s development and competitiveness. While internal projects continue, external collaborations could provide advanced capabilities sooner.
What are the benefits of tokenizing private company shares?
Tokenization increases liquidity and accessibility for investors interested in private companies like OpenAI and SpaceX. It allows fractional investment and simplifies ownership transfers.
How might tariffs affect corporate profits?
Tariffs increase costs for imported goods. If companies cannot fully pass these costs to consumers, their profit margins may decline, affecting overall financial performance.