Base, the layer-2 network of Coinbase (COIN), is redoubling its push to build what it calls a “global onchain economy,” outlining a 2026 strategy centered on markets, payments and developers.
Base is one of the most widespread layer-2 networks in the Ethereum ecosystem, having opened for public use in August 2023. It was originally built using Optimism’s OP Stack as part of the wider “Superchain” ecosystem, although the project has since signaled plans to differentiate its infrastructure as it scales. In February, the Coinbase team said that the chain will increasingly rely on its own internal code.
Layer-2 blockchains are built on top of Ethereum and aim to increase the speed and lower the cost of processing transactions themselves, while still relying on Ethereum for security. The model has become a central part of Ethereum’s scaling strategy, enabling cheaper and faster transactions without moving activity away from the network entirely. Recently, however, some Ethereum leaders, including co-founder Vitalik Buterin, have signaled a shift in focus toward scaling the base layer itself, leaving open questions about how layer-2 networks will fit into Ethereum’s evolving roadmap.
For 2026, Base said it will focus on three areas: expanding onchain markets, scaling stablecoin-based payments, and growing its developer ecosystem — a push that comes as onchain trading venues and stablecoins see increasing adoption among institutional players.
In markets, the network plans to build infrastructure to support tokenized versions of assets such as stocks and commodities alongside existing crypto-native markets such as perpetuities and predictions. It also aims to improve settlement speeds and reduce costs, while positioning its base app as a venue for trading a wide range of assets.
In terms of payments, Base prioritizes stablecoins with planned upgrades including privacy features, stablecoin-based transaction fees, and additional tools for payments. The company also said it intends to expand the liquidity of stablecoins pegged to various currencies and integrate more financial features into its app, such as savings and borrowing.
As for developers, Base said it will continue to invest in programs like Base Batches and new tools, including support for AI-powered applications that interact with onchain markets. The company said it plans to introduce new standards and incentive systems aimed at increasing user activity and transaction volume.
Read more: Optimism’s OP token falls after Base moves away from network ‘OP stack’ in major technology shift
