Base Ecosystem Double Hit: Protocol Innovation + Strategic Acquisition, Coinbase Aiming for 2026

Coinbase has been making moves recently, leveraging the Base ecosystem and compliance infrastructure to fully build out its ultimate vision of the 'Everything Exchange': 1️⃣ Payment Infrastructure: x402 Protocol Drives Sentiment Recovery With the launch of the Base App, x402 (HTTP-native payment protocol) is bringing a significant resurgence in ecosystem activity. This micropayment standard, enabling AI agents and applications to achieve 'pay-as-you-go,' is reshaping interaction logic on the Base chain and boosting developer confidence. 2️⃣ Deep Expansion: Acquisition of Prediction Market Startup The Clearing Company Coinbase has reached an agreement to officially acquire The Clearing Company (expected to close in January 2026). Core Intent: This isn’t just about buying a product; it’s about acquiring the 'compliance clearing layer' for prediction markets. Strategic Goal: To deepen its presence in the event trading space, directly pushing prediction markets from 'niche gaming' to 'mainstream finance.' The tipping point for Web3 social and prediction trading is just around the corner. Track hot projects in the Base ecosystem and Coinbase-related movements on AiCoin.