BASE, an Ethereum Layer-2 network launched by Coinbase, has cemented its position as the leading Ethereum scaling solution. According to data from DefiLlama, BASE has achieved an unprecedented total value locked (TVL) of over $4 billion, making it the first Ethereum scaling network to cross this threshold since Polygon PoS reached similar heights in 2022. The achievement marks a significant shift in the Layer-2 ecosystem, with BASE now surpassing prominent networks like Arbitrum and zkSync Era in multiple key metrics.
The rise of BASE is not limited to TVL. The network has demonstrated dominance across a variety of performance indicators. The BASE now outpaces Arbitrum in decentralized exchange (DEX) trading volume, daily transactions, active addresses, and stablecoin activity.
BASE’s growth in DEX trading volume highlights its increasing utility and adoption. With a focus on efficiency and user-centric design, BASE has facilitated a surge in daily transactions, surpassing its competitors by leveraging its low fees and fast execution times.
Active user participation is another area where BASE has excelled. The network boasts a higher count of daily active addresses compared to Arbitrum and zkSync, reflecting a strong community and a growing ecosystem of decentralized applications (dApps).
Stablecoins Drive BASE’s Benchmark in Layer-2 Networks
One of BASE’s most striking achievements is its dominance in stablecoin activity. The network now processes more stablecoin transactions than any other Ethereum scaling network, reinforcing its appeal as a reliable platform for DeFi users seeking stability and efficiency. The thriving stablecoin ecosystem has played a pivotal role in attracting liquidity providers and traders, further enhancing BASE’s TVL and overall utility.
BASE’s rapid ascent sets a new benchmark for Ethereum Layer-2 networks. Its ability to combine robust performance metrics with ecosystem growth has created a new standard for scaling solutions. Industry experts attribute BASE’s success to Coinbase’s strategic support and its integration into the broader Coinbase ecosystem, which provides seamless access for both retail and institutional users.
The rise of BASE is reshaping the competitive dynamics among Ethereum scaling solutions. While Arbitrum, zkSync Era, and Polygon zkEVM have historically dominated the space, BASE’s entry has injected fresh competition, pushing innovation and setting higher expectations for user experience and network performance.
Despite its success, BASE faces challenges as it continues to scale. Network congestion, competition from emerging Layer-2 networks, and the need to sustain developer interest are key hurdles that could impact its long-term trajectory. However, its ability to integrate seamlessly with Ethereum while delivering a superior user experience positions it as a leader in the space.
BASE’s milestone of surpassing $4 billion in TVL is not just a testament to its technical prowess but also an indicator of shifting trends in the Ethereum Layer-2 ecosystem. By outpacing competitors like Arbitrum in trading volume, transactions, and user engagement, BASE has solidified its position as the go-to scaling solution for Ethereum users. As the network continues to grow, it is poised to shape the future of DeFi and Ethereum scalability.
