Coinbase, through Jesse Pollak, Head of Base, recently announced that the launch of the Base token will be postponed indefinitely. The decision is not due to technical obstacles, but rather a deliberate strategy to ensure that Base fully matures as a robust and decentralized open-source ecosystem before entering the tokenization phase.

Pollak described Base’s vision as something “similar to Linux” — an open-source project that grows through global collaboration. In other words, Coinbase wants to build a strong foundation first, ensuring that Base is not just another Layer-2 project, but a durable piece of blockchain infrastructure for the community.

Base and the Open-Source Approach: “Like Linux in the Blockchain World”

In his latest interview, Pollak explained the three main pillars of Base’s decentralization strategy:

1. Built on Ethereum Layer-2, not a separate chain, to maintain compatibility and ecosystem connectivity.
2. Using the OP Stack, an open standard also used by Optimism, ensuring high interoperability across projects.
3. Evolving from decentralization stage 0 to stage 1, working closely with the open-source community such as Optimism and other L2 projects.

This move strengthens Base’s position as a long-term project rooted in community collaboration, rather than a short-term token or profit strategy.

“We don’t want to recreate the old system with new technology. From the start, our focus has been on decentralization and that’s not just a slogan,” Pollak said.

Why Did Coinbase Delay the Base Token?

The delay in launching the Base token is seen as a strategic move to maintain trust and ecosystem stability. Coinbase believes that issuing a token without a ready infrastructure could create market imbalances and harmful speculation for the community.

By prioritizing an open-source path first, Coinbase aims to ensure long-term sustainability, allowing developers and the community to contribute actively without the pressure of unstable tokenomics.

This approach reflects a philosophy similar to Linux’s success in the tech industry — where the community drives innovation.

Impact on the Ethereum Ecosystem and the Crypto Industry

Coinbase’s decision to delay Base’s tokenization is largely viewed positively by the Ethereum community. It underscores that Base’s primary focus is on building strong technological and community foundations, rather than chasing short-term hype.

In the long run, such an approach could strengthen Ethereum’s position as the center of sustainable Web3 innovation, while inspiring other projects to prioritize transparency and open collaboration.

Conclusion

Coinbase appears to have learned from many projects that failed after launching tokens too soon without a solid foundation. By postponing the Base token launch and focusing on open-source development, the company reinforces its mission to build a sustainable, transparent, and fully decentralized blockchain ecosystem.