Coinbase Integrates DEX Trading, Expands Access to Base-Native Tokens
Coinbase has taken a major step toward bridging centralized and decentralized finance by integrating decentralized exchange (DEX) trading directly into its main app. The new feature, available to most U.S. users outside New York, allows seamless access to tokens on the Base network without the need for third-party wallets or complex DeFi tools. Through partnerships with leading DEX aggregators like 0x and 1inch, Coinbase automatically routes trades across top venues such as Aerodrome and Uniswap, ensuring users get the best available execution. This integration dramatically expands the token selection available to Coinbase customers, granting exposure to emerging Base-native assets like Virtuals AI Agents, Reserve Protocol DTFs, SoSo Value Indices, Auki Labs, and Super Champs.
Coinbase has designed the experience to simplify DeFi for mainstream adoption. Users can fund trades using their Coinbase balance or USDC, while the platform sponsors network fees and provides a built-in self-custody wallet. Real-time on-chain market data and security filters are integrated to block malicious or high-risk tokens, addressing common user concerns in decentralized markets. By abstracting away technical steps like gas management and wallet switching, Coinbase is lowering the barriers for retail participation in on-chain trading.
The rollout will be gradual, with Base assets added in batches and future expansion planned for networks like Solana. Jesse Pollak, creator of Base, emphasized that this change levels the playing field for builders, as new tokens can reach millions of users instantly without a centralized listing process. The market has already responded positively—tokens like Aerodrome’s AERO saw sharp gains following the announcement. Coinbase’s move not only positions it as a one-stop “everything app” for crypto but also signals a broader industry trend of centralized exchanges embracing DeFi integration to meet user demand for greater asset access and flexibility.