Blockchain.com, the cryptocurrency-focused financial services company, has officially entered the non-fungible token (NFT) arena by launching its own NFT marketplace and an accompanying NFT Explorer. Starting today, select users can sign up for beta access to the platform, which aims to streamline NFT trading directly within the Blockchain.com Wallet.
Bridging the Gap Between Crypto and NFTs
In a blog post published on December 2, Blockchain.com stated: “We want to make accessing the NFT market as easy as accessing the crypto market.” The new marketplace (currently in beta) enables users to browse, buy, sell, and securely store NFTs without ever leaving their Blockchain.com Wallet — a noncustodial wallet where users retain control of their private keys.
The announcement places Blockchain.com alongside other major crypto exchanges such as Crypto.com, Coinbase, and FTX, all of which have introduced NFT marketplaces during the 2021 NFT boom. As the NFT market has grown into a billion-dollar industry, these exchanges are leveraging their existing user bases to offer integrated NFT services, competing with standalone platforms like OpenSea and Rarible.
NFT Explorer: Real-Time On-Chain Data
Alongside the marketplace, Blockchain.com released an NFT Explorer that provides detailed information about Ethereum-based NFTs. Users can view current prices, floor prices, owner details, and last sale prices. The explorer currently pulls data from OpenSea, the largest NFT marketplace by volume. This tool is designed to give traders and collectors greater transparency when researching NFTs before making a purchase.
The company also published a step-by-step guide on how to buy an NFT through its new marketplace, aiming to lower the barrier for newcomers who may find the NFT space intimidating.
Recent Acquisition and Global Expansion
Blockchain.com’s NFT marketplace launch follows its recent acquisition of Sesocio, an Argentina-based investment platform. The deal brought Blockchain.com’s global workforce to 400 employees and marked the company’s intention to establish a physical presence in Latin America. By integrating Sesocio’s technology and talent, Blockchain.com is broadening its product suite and expanding its reach beyond crypto wallet services.
The beta version of the marketplace is available now for sign-ups. Blockchain.com has not yet announced a full public launch date, but the company indicated that it will continue to add features and potentially support NFTs on other blockchains in the future.
With the NFT market showing no signs of slowing down, Blockchain.com’s entry adds another layer of competition. Its noncustodial wallet integration could appeal to users who prioritize security and self-custody, while the NFT Explorer provides valuable data that even seasoned collectors will find useful.