Coinbase's GDAX Exchange Sets Out Criteria for Token Listings

Coinbase's digital asset exchange GDAX has released details of how it will consider future tokens for listing on its platform.

In its new Digital Asset Framework published today, GDAX sets out a wide range of criteria that assets must meet for possible inclusion. These include whether the asset aligns with GDAX's mission and values, to whether listing the asset would be legal under U.S. securities laws.

While tokens classed as securities or primarily created for fundraising will not be considered, those with utility will, providing there is a "clear and compelling reason" for the token to exist.

According to the document, the exchange will also assess each asset's levels of security and liquidity, the token scheme's structure and the transparency of the project.

Meeting the criteria isn't a guarantee, however, and GDAX states that it reserves the "full and absolute discretion to list, not list, or de-list any asset for trading on GDAX regardless of how the criteria in this framework may apply to the asset."

Coinbase general manager and GDAX head Adam White explained in a blog post that the exchange will add assets which it considers to align with the framework and "promote our mission of creating an open financial system for the world."

White explained that the framework has been drawn up to increase the company's transparency in response to customer questions about its process for choosing new assets to support. According to the post, there are currently more than 1,100 digital currencies listed on various exchanges.

White said:

"This framework is not intended to be a definitive methodology, investment advice, or a commitment to support any specific asset. As the technology, use cases, and regulatory environment evolve, so too will this framework."

While the framework outlines the factors GDAX might consider when choosing an asset to list, White said the company will continue to focus on protecting the investments made by its users and complying with regulatory requirements.

Framework image via Shutterstock