Coinbase brings DEX trading to US users as CEXs go DeFi

Coinbase has launched decentralized exchange (DEX) trading for nearly all US customers in October, marking a significant shift as centralized exchanges embrace DeFi technology. This strategic move represents one of Coinbase's most ambitious cryptocurrency products, bringing decentralized finance capabilities directly to mainstream users through its platform.

The integration allows US traders to access decentralized trading protocols while maintaining the familiar Coinbase interface, potentially revolutionizing how Americans interact with DeFi markets. This development signals a broader trend of centralized exchanges (CEXs) adopting decentralized finance features to remain competitive in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.

By offering DEX functionality, Coinbase users can now trade directly from their wallets without surrendering custody of their digital assets, addressing key concerns about security and control that drive many traders toward decentralized platforms. This hybrid approach combines the user-friendly experience of centralized exchanges with the trustless, non-custodial benefits of blockchain-based trading.

The launch positions Coinbase at the forefront of the CEX-to-DeFi transition, potentially attracting new users seeking decentralized trading options while retaining existing customers who value regulated, compliant cryptocurrency services.