Coinbase’s Base Eyes Native Token to Boost Decentralization and Interoperability

Coinbase's layer-2 blockchain Base moves toward true decentralization with plans for a native token—finally giving users more than just gas fee discounts.

Breaking the Centralization Chains

Base currently runs on ETH but lacks its own governance token—a glaring gap in its decentralization narrative. The proposed native token would hand control to the community rather than keeping it locked within Coinbase's corporate structure.

Interoperability Unleashed

A native asset could bridge Base with other chains more seamlessly, cutting cross-chain transfer fees and bypassing traditional financial intermediaries. Think faster settlements, lower costs, and fewer Wall Street middlemen taking their cut.

Because nothing says 'decentralized finance' like a giant exchange calling the shots—but hey, at least they're trying to look less centralized while probably making a ton of money in the process.

In brief

• Base network, backed by Coinbase, is exploring a native token to enhance decentralization and community participation.
• Jesse Pollak revealed the plans at BaseCamp 2025 but avoided details on governance, design, or launch timelines.
• The token shift follows Base achieving sub-second, sub-cent transactions and expanding into an open blockchain stack.
• Base also announced an open-source Solana bridge to drive interoperability and boost ecosystem liquidity.

Coinbase Considers Native Token to Drive Decentralization

On Monday, the network explained that the proposed token is expected to improve decentralization while supporting the builders and creators. Speaking at the 2025 BaseCamp, Pollak clarified that the project is still in its early days, declining to share details regarding the governance, design, or launch date.

Over the years, Coinbase closed the door to unveiling a native token for the Base network. Last year, Pollak stated that Base had no plans to issue a native token, while praising Hyperliquid for its focus on building products over token incentives.

But now, all indications suggest that Pollak and CEO Brian Armstrong have revised their stance. In a recent X post, Armstrong admitted that the firm is “updating its philosophy” and is looking at several growth possibilities. However, he noted that no definitive groundwork has been laid.

A Base spokesperson noted that Base initially focused on building core products over prioritizing a native token launch. Having achieved notable advancements in speed and transaction costs, the network has now pivoted towards a token launch that WOULD make it more accessible and open-source.

Now that we’ve achieved sub-second, sub-cent transactions and expanded into an open stack, we’re exploring a network token to further decentralize and make the ecosystem more open, accessible, and community-driven.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson tied the recent MOVE to its goal for improved decentralization, stating that a network token could help drive “Base’s on-chain economy.”

Base Expands With Solana Bridge to Boost Interoperability and Liquidity

Developed by Coinbase and launched in 2023, Base is a layer-2 blockchain that runs on the ethereum network. Since its launch, Base has become one of the most used Ethereum layer-2 chains. 

According to data from Token Terminal, the network recorded an average of 20 million monthly active addresses over the past year. While Base currently settles transactions on the ETH network, a new native token could expedite platform settlements and further incentivize network participants.

Pollak also emphasized the primary vision behind Base’s design, adding that the network was built to function as a “bridge, not an island.” He added that the network remains committed to advancing and strengthening by becoming open and interoperable. 

Against this backdrop, Pollak announced the unveiling of an open-source bridge to Solana, aimed at cross-chain transactions, allowing builders and creators to benefit from a wider liquidity pool.

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