SUMMARY

• Armstrong calls out SEC's anti-crypto crusade, seeks legal clarity
• Coinbase staying in the U.S., but exploring international opportunities
• Dubai's crypto-friendly vibe attracts Armstrong's attention

In a recent interview with CNBC, Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, the popular cryptocurrency exchange, served up some chill vibes as he coolly critiqued the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its chair, Gary Gensler. Armstrong made it clear that Coinbase isn't packing up and leaving the U.S., but he did express some concerns about the regulatory environment for crypto companies in the country.

Coinbase has been feeling the heat from the SEC, following a rough year for the crypto industry, with big players like FTX and Terra crashing and burning, dragging down the market and wiping out billions in investor cash. The SEC's beef with Coinbase revolves around allegations that it's selling unregistered securities to investors. Armstrong, however, isn't on board with that idea.

Armstrong sees the SEC as a bit of a lone wolf in its crusade against crypto, singling out Gensler for his anti-crypto stance. Instead of fostering the industry's growth, Armstrong feels that Gensler's actions may be aimed at curtailing it. He's hopeful that getting some legal clarity through the courts will help both the crypto industry and the U.S.

Despite flirting with the idea of moving Coinbase's headquarters overseas, Armstrong confirmed that Coinbase is here to stay in the U.S. He did point out, though, that the U.S. is lagging behind in terms of crypto-friendly regulations, giving a shout-out to the EU and the U.K. for their progressive stances on cryptocurrency.

While Armstrong is keeping Coinbase grounded in the U.S., he's keen on expanding the company's international investments. Dubai's crypto-friendly regulations caught his eye, and he's seriously considering making moves in the United Arab Emirates. Time will tell if this laid-back CEO can navigate the stormy regulatory seas and come out on top.

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