ZACKS·2026-01-30 16:25Core Insights - Increased volatility, supportive U.S. economic policies, higher acceptance of digital assets, and retail trading growth are shaping the future of exchanges [1] - Coinbase Global Inc. (COIN) is positioned to benefit from market volatility and rising digital asset valuations, while Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) is set to grow through a solid portfolio and risk management services [1][2] Coinbase (COIN) - Coinbase is leveraging President Trump's pro-crypto stance and aims to transform into an "everything exchange" offering a wide range of financial services [3] - The company has expanded its product ecosystem, including enabling Solana on its Base network, launching Shiba Inu futures, and introducing new products like prediction markets and tokenized equities [4] - Coinbase's growth strategy includes a focus on its Base Layer 2 blockchain and stablecoins to enhance crypto adoption and reduce costs [5] - Mergers and acquisitions are key to Coinbase's strategy, with ten acquisitions in 2026, including The Clearing Company, to strengthen its prediction market presence [6] - Despite facing margin pressure from high operating costs, Coinbase's expanding ecosystem and improving regulatory environment support a positive long-term growth outlook [7] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for COIN's 2026 revenues indicates an 11.6% year-over-year increase, with EPS expected to grow by 27.3% [14] - COIN shares have decreased by 42.1% over the past six months, trading at a forward P/E multiple of 34.4, lower than its three-year median of 46.1 [16][17] Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) - ICE offers a comprehensive suite of products and risk management services, supported by strategic acquisitions that enhance its offerings [8][12] - The company is well-positioned to benefit from the digitization of the U.S. residential mortgage market and is expanding its mortgage business through the integration of Ellie Mae [10] - ICE maintains a strong global data services platform, with expected growth in data revenue driven by market activity and performance in its index business [11] - The company has a solid track record of acquisitions that have contributed to growth and expense synergies, supported by a strong balance sheet [12] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ICE's 2026 revenues implies a 6.1% increase, with EPS expected to grow by 9.4% [14] - ICE shares have increased by 19.7% in the past six months, trading at a forward P/E multiple of 23.5, higher than its three-year median of 22 [16][17] Conclusion - Coinbase is diversifying its revenue base through trading fees, staking, custodial services, and derivatives, aiming to be a one-stop destination for digital asset trading [18] - ICE is poised for growth through its strong portfolio, risk management services, strategic acquisitions, and impressive dividend history, having doubled its dividends in the last six years [19]