Coinbase Launches DEX Trading for U.S. Users to Expand DeFi Access

Coinbase, the leading U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchange, has launched decentralized exchange (DEX) trading for most of its U.S. customers, marking a strategic expansion into decentralized finance (DeFi) as adoption continues to grow [1]. The new feature, available via the Coinbase mobile app, excludes residents of New York State, where regulatory restrictions remain in place [1]. The DEX integration allows users to trade newly issued tokens and decentralized assets with greater speed and lower fees, enhancing accessibility and liquidity in the crypto market [2].

With the launch, Coinbase is integrating liquidity from decentralized protocols such as Uniswap and Aerodrome, enabling users to trade Base-native and other decentralized tokens seconds after they are minted [1]. The company’s asset offerings are expected to expand significantly, potentially growing from around 300 to millions of tradable assets [3]. This expansion is made possible through DEX integrations that aggregate liquidity across decentralized markets, offering customers the best prices without leaving the familiar Coinbase interface [1].

Users can now access millions of assets directly within the Coinbase app, including projects such as Virtuals AI Agents, Reserve Protocol DTFs, and SoSoValue Indices, all with no network fees [1]. The integration also includes an integrated self-custody wallet, allowing users to maintain control over their assets and interact directly with decentralized protocols [1]. On-chain data and risk details are embedded in the app to help traders make informed decisions while avoiding malicious assets [1].

Coinbase has stated it will add support for new DEX assets in batches, gradually expanding its offerings with the goal of supporting the full range of Base assets [1]. The company plans to roll out DEX support to additional blockchains, starting with Solana, and extend the feature to more international markets [1]. This development aligns with broader trends in the crypto industry, where decentralized trading platforms are gaining traction due to their reduced reliance on centralized authorities and their ability to offer more direct control to users [1].

The DEX integration is also seen as a strategic move to strengthen Coinbase’s position in the evolving digital asset landscape [1]. By enabling faster and more cost-effective trades, the company is addressing user demand for transparency, efficiency, and broader access to token markets [3]. Analysts have noted that the integration could democratize access to token markets, making it easier for retail investors to participate in DeFi innovations [1].

Coinbase routes DEX orders through 0x, a leading open-order book protocol, which enhances infrastructure reliability and transparency [1]. The company has also indicated plans to introduce tokenized stocks for U.S. users, though no timeline has been announced [1].

The exclusion of New York users underscores the regulatory challenges Coinbase faces as it expands into decentralized trading [1]. The state has historically taken a cautious stance on DeFi, and Coinbase will need to carefully navigate these regulatory differences as it rolls out the feature globally [1]. The company’s ability to balance innovation with compliance will be key to the long-term success of its DEX platform.

By integrating DEX trading, Coinbase is positioning itself as a central player in the evolving digital asset ecosystem [1]. The move reflects a broader shift in the industry toward decentralized infrastructure and user control, and it could reshape how digital assets are traded in the future [1]. As DeFi adoption accelerates, the impact of Coinbase’s integration on trading behavior, competition, and regulatory responses will be closely watched.

Source:

[1] AInvest: [Coinbase Launches DEX for U.S. Users to Expand Crypto Access](https://www.ainvest.com/news/coinbase-launches-dex-users-expand-crypto-access-2508/)

[2] CoinCentral: [Coinbase Expands Crypto Access with DEX Trading and Base-Native Tokens](https://coincentral.com/coinbase-expands-crypto-access-with-dex-trading-and-base-native-tokens/)

[3] The: [Coinbase to Launch DEX Trading As DeFi Adoption Accelerates](https://www.cryptotimes.io/2025/08/09/coinbase-to-launch-dex-trading-as-defi-adoption-accelerates/)