Coinbase Hints At Native Token For Base Network – ‘We’re Just Updating Our Philosophy,’ Says CEO Brian Armstrong

Coinbase’s Ethereum-based Layer 2 network, Base, is exploring the launch of a native token, according to Base creator Jesse Pollak. 

“Base is a bridge, not an island,” Pollak said during Monday’s live-stream of the BaseCamp conference, emphasizing the network’s goal of integrating more closely with the broader Ethereum ecosystem. The announcement marks a shift from Coinbase’s prior position, in which company representatives repeatedly stated there were no plans to issue a token for the network.

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong confirmed the exploration in a post on X, noting that while the company is considering a native token, “there are no definitive plans” at this stage. Base currently uses Ethereum (ETH) as its gas token, and any token launch would represent a significant expansion of the network’s economic infrastructure. “We’re just updating our philosophy. As of now, we’re exploring it,” he wrote.

Coinbase’s stock edged 0.6% higher in midday trade with retail sentiment on Stocktwits climbing to ‘bullish’ from ‘neutral’ territory over the past day.

Pollak described the move as “the next chapter” for Base, emphasizing that any decision on a token would be guided by principles of decentralization and alignment between builders, creators, and participants in the network’s economy.

He cautioned that the process remains at an early stage but stressed that Coinbase intends to pursue the effort transparently. “We don’t have all the answers, but we’re going to figure it out together—and we’re going to do it in the open,” Pollak noted.

Pollak reiterated that Base will remain closely tied to Ethereum and said Coinbase is committed to working with regulators to ensure any token plans comply with existing frameworks.

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