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The Defiant - DeFi Podcast

How Coinbase is Bridging Bitcoin to DeFi with New OnChain Lending | Will Robinson, VP of Engineering

Feb 24, 2025
58:32

Will Robinson, VP of Engineering at Coinbase, explores the company’s expanding role in decentralized finance (DeFi), highlighting the launch of Bitcoin-backed USDC loans through Morpho and Coinbase’s broader efforts to integrate DeFi solutions. He explains how Coinbase is working to connect centralized finance (CeFi) with DeFi by incorporating decentralized protocols while prioritizing security and regulatory compliance. Robinson also discusses the introduction of cbBTC as an alternative to WBTC, the company’s approach to multi-chain development, and its plans for further DeFi integrations. Additionally, he addresses ongoing debates about Ethereum Layer 2 networks and their impact on the main chain, emphasizing the importance of improved cross-chain interoperability. He also provides insights into Coinbase’s asset listing process, the role of meme coins in the crypto ecosystem, and the company’s broader mission to support a more open and accessible financial system.


Chapters

00:00 - Intro: Will Robinson, VP of Engineering at Coinbase

00:45 - Coinbase’s expanding role in DeFi

01:16 - Bitcoin-backed USDC loans powered by Morpho

02:34 - How Coinbase enables BTC holders to access liquidity

05:15 - Risks involved in Bitcoin-backed loans

08:58 - Liquidation risks and loan-to-value ratios

11:13 - Early demand and adoption of the product

13:15 - cbBTC vs. WBTC: Why Coinbase launched its own Bitcoin wrapper

18:47 - How cbBTC is issued and traded

21:36 - Coinbase’s approach to self-custody and wallets

24:07 - The role of Coinbase Wallet in bridging CeFi and DeFi

27:31 - Coinbase’s long-term DeFi strategy and future integrations

29:50 - Will DeFi become a mainstream part of traditional finance?

33:51 - Coinbase’s evolution from exchange to financial institution

34:34 - The rise of Base: How Coinbase grew its Layer 2

38:28 - Are Layer 2s parasitic to Ethereum?

49:08 - The role of meme coins in crypto and Coinbase’s listing process

54:20 - The future of on-chain finance and economic freedom


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