Coinbase Launches In-App DEX Trading for Most U.S. Users

Coinbase has launched new decentralized exchange (DEX) trading features within its application for most U.S. users, excluding residents of New York [1]. This move represents a significant step in the company’s strategy to integrate decentralized finance (DeFi) tools directly into its platform, enabling users to trade on-chain assets without transferring funds off the app [2]. The DEX functionality supports a range of tokens native to the Base network, a Layer 2 scaling solution developed by Coinbase [4], and includes tokens from emerging projects such as Virtuals AI Agents, Reserve Protocol DTFs, and Super Champs [5]. This expansion is expected to attract developers and early-stage token creators, providing them with greater visibility and access to a large user base [6].

The introduction of self-custody options and fee subsidies aims to reduce friction in on-chain trading, offering users more control over their assets while maintaining the security and convenience of the Coinbase ecosystem [3]. By enabling direct interaction with liquidity pools, the platform is streamlining the user experience and fostering deeper engagement with DeFi protocols [11]. The phased rollout of the feature allows for continuous monitoring of performance and user feedback, while also addressing regulatory constraints, particularly in states like New York [10].

Coinbase’s integration of DEX trading aligns with its broader goal of evolving into a more comprehensive financial platform, often described as an “everything app” [7]. The company is aiming to bridge the gap between centralized and decentralized finance, making it easier for retail users to access DeFi tools without the need to switch between multiple platforms [8]. This shift also reflects a growing trend among both institutional and retail investors to seek greater control over their digital assets through non-custodial solutions [9].

The DEX feature enhances the utility of the Base network, a low-fee, high-speed Layer 2 solution that was recently launched as an alternative to Ethereum [12]. By supporting Base-native tokens, Coinbase is reinforcing its role as a key infrastructure provider for the next wave of blockchain innovation [13]. The integration also includes a DEX aggregator, which sources competitive pricing from multiple liquidity pools, offering users better trade execution [1]. This development is expected to influence liquidity flows into Layer 2 ecosystems and could reshape market dynamics as more users engage with decentralized protocols [6].

The timing of the launch coincides with a period of strong performance for Ethereum, which saw a 4% increase in the past 24 hours and a 69.21% rise over the last 90 days as of August 10, 2025 [1]. Analysts suggest that Coinbase’s DEX rollout could further accelerate the adoption of DeFi in global markets, facilitating smoother transitions between fiat and decentralized finance [6]. However, the long-term success of the feature will depend on user adoption, regulatory developments, and the continued growth of the Base ecosystem [15].

Overall, the introduction of DEX trading within the Coinbase app marks a strategic pivot toward self-custody and decentralized tools, reflecting both market demand and the company’s vision for the future of digital asset finance [14]. The move positions Coinbase as a leader in the evolving landscape of hybrid crypto platforms, aiming to provide a seamless experience for users navigating both centralized and decentralized markets [1].

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Source:

[1] "Coinbase Adds In-App DEX Trading for U.S. Users Base..." – AInvest, https://www.ainvest.com/news/coinbase-adds-app-dex-trading-users-base-tokens-surge-28-2508/

[2] "Coinbase (COIN) Adds DEX Trading to U.S. App in Push..." – CoinDesk, https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2025/08/08/coinbase-adds-dex-trading-to-u-s-app-in-push-toward-becoming-an-everything-app

[3] "DEX Trading" – Coinbase, https://www.coinbase.com/trade-crypto/dex

[4] "Coinbase Adds In-App DEX Trading for U.S. Users" – Bankless, https://www.bankless.com/read/coinbase-adds-in-app-dex-trading-for-u-s-users

[5] "Coinbase is adding DEX trading to its app for U.S. users..." – MSN, https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/coinbase-is-adding-dex-trading-to-its-app-for-us-users-except-in-new-york/ar-AA1Kb4sI

[6] "Coinbase Brings DEX Trading, Unlocking Millions Of ..." – Bitcoinist.com, https://bitcoinist.com/coinbase-brings-dex-trading-unlock-millions-assets/