Coinbase files confidential S-1 ahead of potential IPO

Coinbase has taken the first step toward going public.

"Coinbase Global, Inc. today announced that it has confidentially submitted a draft registration statement on Form S-1 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The Form S-1 is expected to become effective after the SEC completes its review process, subject to market and other conditions," the firm said Thursday.

"We expect the Form S-1 to become effective and for Coinbase to complete a public offering after the SEC completes its review process, subject to market and other conditions. This Tweet does not constitute an offer of any securities for sale," Coinbase said in an accompanying tweet.

Reports that Coinbase was eyeing a public offering surfaced this summer, with sources telling Reuters that the initial move could come as early as this year.