Base, Coinbase’s (COIN) Layer 2 network, has outlined a 2026 strategy centered on markets, payments, and developers, increasing its efforts to build what it calls a “global on-chain economy.”
Base is one of the most widely used layer 2 networks in the Ethereum ecosystem and entered general availability in August 2023. Base was initially built using Optimism’s OP stack as part of a broader “superchain” ecosystem, but the project has since indicated plans to differentiate its infrastructure as it scales. In February, the Coinbase team said the chain would increasingly rely on its own in-house code.
Layer 2 blockchains are built on top of Ethereum and aim to increase speed and reduce costs by processing the transactions themselves, while relying on Ethereum for security. This model has become a key part of Ethereum’s scaling strategy, enabling cheaper and faster transactions without moving activity completely outside the network. However, in recent days, some Ethereum leaders, including co-founder Vitalik Buterin, have signaled a shift in focus to scaling the base layer itself, leaving open questions about how the Layer 2 network will fit into Ethereum’s evolving roadmap.
Looking ahead to 2026, Base said it will focus on three areas: expanding its on-chain market, expanding stablecoin-based payments, and growing its developer ecosystem. This is a push as on-chain trading venues and stablecoins are expected to see increased adoption among institutional investors.
In the marketplace, the network plans to build infrastructure to support tokenized versions of assets such as stocks and commodities, alongside existing crypto-native markets such as perpetual markets and forecasts. We also aim to improve payment speed and reduce costs, while positioning the base app as a place for trading a wide range of assets.
When it comes to payments, Base is prioritizing stablecoins, with upgrades planned including privacy features, stablecoin base transaction fees, and additional tools for payments. The company also said it plans to expand the liquidity of stablecoins tied to different currencies and integrate more financial features into the app, such as saving and borrowing.
As for developers, Base said it will continue to invest in new tools, including programs such as Base Batch and support for AI-driven applications that interact with on-chain markets. The company said it plans to introduce new standards and incentive systems aimed at increasing user activity and transaction volumes.
Read more: Optimism’s OP token drops after Base leaves network’s “OP stack” in major technology shift
