Coinbase Teases cbBTC Launch, A Potential Rival to WBTC Token

Bhushan Akolkar
August 14, 2024
Why Trust CoinGape
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Coinbase Mark Milestone with First AI-Powered Crypto Transaction

Highlights

  • Coinbase has yet to disclose more details on cbBTC that could potentially rival the WBTC.
  • The launch comes at a time of growing concerns surrounding the Wrapped Bitcoin WBTC tokens.
  • The crypto exchange announces its return to Hawaii following improving regulatory landscape.

As the Bitcoin ecosystem continues to expand, crypto exchange Coinbase is eyeing to expand its footprint in the market with the launch of cbBTC, a potential rival to the Wrapped Bitcoin WBTC token. This announcement of the cbBTC launch comes at a time amid growing concerns of Justin Sun’s involvement with the WBTC token.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Coinbase’s cbBTC to Rival WBTC?

The recent hint at launching the cbBTC token, shows that crypto exchange Coinbase is planning to build a substantial Bitcoin economic system on the Base network. Interestingly, this development comes amid rising concerns about Justin Sun’s growing involvement with the WBTC custodial changes. Speculations are ripe that the cbBTC could emerge as the direct competitor to WBTC.

The concerns regarding the WBTC custody started propping up after major custodian BitGo stated that it would start transferring the control of the product to a new joint venture. However, Justin Sun later clarified to the stakeholders that his role in WBTC will be entirely strategic and that he doesn’t have any access to private keys or the ability to move the BTC reserves. Furthermore, BitGo CEO Mike Belshe has also downplayed these fears stating that the controversy is more perception-driven rather than facts.

Advertisement
Advertisement

A Tokenized Bitcoin

As we know, the Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) is a tokenized version of Bitcoin that runs on the Ethereum blockchain, compliant with the ERC 20 standard. Thus, it indirectly introduces BTC to the rapidly evolving DeFi ecosystem, crypto lending services etc.

Thus, cbBTC could be another tokenized Bitcoin version that the crypto exchange might be planning to introduce to the rapidly evolving Base ecosystem.

The crypto exchange has been making every effort to address the regulatory challenges while simultaneously expanding its services in the broader crypto space. Recently, Coinbase challenged SEC’s blanket definition of crypto exchange, derived without conducting an economic analysis of how it would be affecting DEXs.

In another development, the crypto exchange also announced its return to Hawaii, after seven long years of exiting the island state. This decision comes amid an improved regulatory landscape on the island.

Advertisement
coingape google news coingape google news
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Bhushan is a seasoned crypto writer with over eight years of experience spanning more than 10,000 contributions across multiple platforms like CoinGape, CoinSpeaker, Bitcoinist, Crypto News Flash, and others. Being a Fintech enthusiast, he loves reporting across Crypto, Blockchain, DeFi, Global Macros with a keen understanding in financial markets. 

He is committed to continuous learning and stays motivated by sharing the knowledge he acquires. In his free time, Bhushan enjoys reading thriller fiction novels and occasionally explores his culinary skills. Bhushan has a bachelors degree in electronics engineering, however, his interest in finance and economics drives him to crypto and blockchain.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.