COIN vs. MSTR: Which Bitcoin-Focused Stock Has More Upside?
ZACKS·2025-10-29 19:11

Core Insights - Bitcoin has gained traction as a decentralized asset, supported by institutional participation and favorable U.S. economic policies under President Trump, enhancing investor confidence [1] - A comparison is made between Coinbase Global Inc. (COIN) and Strategy Inc. (MSTR) regarding their long-term growth potential in the cryptocurrency market [1] Factors to Consider for Coinbase (COIN) - Coinbase generates approximately 83% of its revenues in the U.S., benefiting from pro-crypto policies and regulatory clarity [2] - The company has expanded its product offerings, including an equity index future tied to the "Magnificent 7" stocks and a $100 million bitcoin-backed loan to CleanSpark [2] - Coinbase is advancing real-world crypto adoption through initiatives like Base, a Layer 2 network, and stablecoin-based payment systems [3] - Despite strategic initiatives, Coinbase faces profitability pressures due to high transaction and operating expenses, with performance closely linked to major cryptocurrency price movements [4] Factors to Consider for Strategy (MSTR) - Strategy holds 640,250 bitcoins, making it the largest bitcoin treasury company, and benefits from the establishment of a strategic bitcoin reserve by the Trump administration [5] - The company has a capital-raising strategy through preferred equity offerings, with various instruments providing attractive yields [6] - MSTR's product licenses and subscription services revenues increased by 44% year-over-year to $48 million, indicating growth potential [7] Financial Estimates and Performance - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for COIN's 2025 revenues suggests a 7.6% year-over-year increase, while EPS is projected to rise by 0.4% [10] - MSTR's 2025 revenues are expected to increase by 0.7%, but EPS is projected to decline by 134.1% [10] - COIN shares have increased by 43.1% year-to-date, while MSTR shares have decreased by 1.7% [12] Valuation Metrics - Coinbase's forward 12-month price-to-earnings multiple is 56.55, below its median of 59.55, indicating a relatively favorable valuation [14] - MSTR's forward 12-month price-to-earnings multiple is -93.45, worse than its median of -27.11, suggesting a stretched valuation [14] Conclusion - Coinbase's diversified revenue base and strategic initiatives position it well for long-term growth, supported by institutional demand and regulatory standing [15] - Strategy, despite its bitcoin holdings, faces challenges with valuation and macroeconomic conditions, making it a riskier investment [16]