Base, the layer-2 network by Coinbase, could dominate the decentralized finance and consumer applications market

Nansen's latest report highlights on-chain activity, robust metrics, and a growing user base as some of the catalysts that signal a potential explosive performance

Layer-2 network Base, launched by Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) in February, could see a stellar performance in the second quarter, potentially cementing its dominance in decentralized finance and emerging as a frontrunner for the next generation of consumer applications, according to blockchain analytics firm Nansen.

In its latest report, "What's Next for Base in Q2 2024," Nansen highlights the role of several catalysts in setting the stage for Base's explosive performance in Q2. This, in turn, could propel the L2 to even greater heights as a core DeFi platform.

This analysis suggests that Base is well-placed to sustain its leadership in the next generation of consumer applications.

Highlighting the tailwinds heading into the next quarter, Nansen's report shines a spotlight on ecosystem projects and tokens, which present interesting investment opportunities. Among the tokens to watch are Virtuals Protocol (CRYPTO: VIRTUAL) and Aerodrome Finance (CRYPTO: AERO).

Stronger catalysts for Base in Q2, likely to push total value locked even higher include new app-chains, effect of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission dropping its lawsuit against Coinbase and the growing pro-crypto landscape.

“Base is Coinbase’s direct bet on an onchain future and given the large network effects and scale of Coinbase, we see Base positioned strongly,” Nansen wrote.

Combining these catalysts with strong on-chain traction across traditional metrics, such as TVL, stablecoin velocity, and daily active users, showcases a bullish future for Base. These metrics, along with the role of Base in emerging use cases, such as DeFi, revenue-generating protocols, and NFTs, factor into a broader narrative of Base's growth.

Its analysts add that this "State of the Chain" is what sets Base apart from other L2s.

Upcoming Developments

Flashblocks, currently live on testnet and slated for a mainnet launch in Q2, along with Base appchains and smart wallet sub-accounts scheduled for release in Q2, are notable developments that further strengthen Base's growth outlook.

While Base itself still has no native token, the analysts see memecoins and artificial intelligence-linked tokens as some of the assets likely to offer directional exposure to the L2.

Projects such as VIRTUAL, AERO and others offer potentially great entry points given their current performances. The narratives to watch include DeFi meta, gaming, SocialFi and payments. Listing on Coinbase and expansion to Solana are also key ecosystem milestones. Bitcoin (BTC) performance is another.

“With BTC still trading in a range, we’re not in a rush to time altcoin trades, but positioning for a potential breakout remains key. If the momentum shifts, Base-native assets could outperform significantly,” the analysts conclude.