COINOTAG reported on September 23 that the debate over centralization of Base layer sequencers has intensified, with some critics suggesting Base functions more like a trading platform than a conventional Layer 2 network. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin publicly defended the design, stating that Base’s use of sequencer-level centralization is an intentional trade-off to deliver enhanced user experience while anchoring finality and security to the Ethereum base layer.
Vitalik also highlighted that Base does not custody user funds and, per L2beat’s Phase 1 criteria, cannot seize or block withdrawals — a structural assurance that aligns the sequencer model with established Layer 2 security expectations and the broader Ethereum settlement architecture.