Portfolio App Blockfolio Adds Crypto, Stock Trading to Capitalize on GameStop Drama

The app offers trading of crypto assets as well as tokenized stocks listed on derivatives exchange FTX.

(Blockfolio)

Jan 29, 2021 at 2:08 p.m. UTCUpdated Jan 29, 2021 at 2:34 p.m. UTC

Blockfolio has launched zero-fee cryptocurrency trading within its portfolio tracking app, according to an announcement Friday.

The firm is also listing all tokenized stocks listed on derivatives exchange FTX in the trading service (available to non-U.S. users only).

A Blockfolio representative told CoinDesk it decided to include these offerings due to the ongoing situation with Robinhood, which has restricted some stock and crypto offerings amid the GameStop trading craze started by Reddit group WallStreetBets.

“There is a wave of new users coming into the crypto space who need simple, easy tools to help them navigate what can be a daunting industry. Since we’ve always tried to be the most user friendly companion app for the crypto industry, bringing dead-simple, zero fee trading into the app was a natural next step for Blockfolio,” said Jonathan Chu, Blockfolio’s head of product.

The move comes after the firm’s $150 million acquisition by FTX in August 2020. The new service will see heavy competition from the likes of Coinbase and Robinhood, though FTX told CoinDesk it believes it will offer a superior pricing model.

The new feature, which is powered via FTX’s trading systems, also comes via a partnership with capital markets solutions provider Digital Assets AG and investment firm CM Equity established in October last year.