Coinbase Council: Preparing the Blockchain for the Quantum Era
Coinpedia·60-word summary·1 min read
The Coinbase Independent Quantum Advisory Council, including researchers from the Ethereum Foundation, Stanford, and other institutions, published a position paper on April 21, 2026, highlighting the risks quantum computers pose to blockchain cryptography. The report emphasizes the need for preventive measures before Q-Day, when quantum computers could potentially compromise current cryptographic systems.
Coinbase has warned that proof-of-stake chains like Ethereum and Solana could face quantum risks, as validator signatures and wallet cryptography may become vulnerable if future quantum computers break current encryption. The advisory highlights potential security concerns, emphasizing the need for blockchain projects to prepare for advancements in quantum computing that could compromise cryptographic protections.
Peter Thiel-backed Ramp has added zero-fee USDT and USD swaps across its platform, now supporting Ethereum, Solana, and Plasma-issued USDT. The company, valued at $32 billion in November 2025 after a $300 million funding round, previously integrated USDC before expanding to Tether’s USDT. This move enhances seamless, fee-free 1:1 USD and USDT conversions for users.
Peter Thiel-backed Ramp has introduced support for Ethereum, Solana, and Plasma-issued USDT tokens across its platform. This expansion allows users to convert between USDT and dollars seamlessly, enhancing liquidity and usability for DeFi and crypto traders. The move aims to strengthen stablecoin integrations and facilitate broader adoption of digital assets in financial services.
Ethereum is trading at $2,307, up 0.17% in 24 hours, with trading volume dropping nearly 19.5% below $16 billion. Despite the slight price increase, on-chain data indicates weak demand, raising concerns about the sustainability of the current recovery. The market remains cautious as ETH attempts to rebound from recent lows.
Ethereum's open interest in derivatives markets dropped by over 2 billion dollars in seven days, indicating significant trader sentiment decline. The sharp decrease suggests potential capitulation or a consolidation phase, with some signals hinting at a possible rebound. The market's recent downturn reflects increased closed positions and cautious trading activity, raising questions about future price movements.
USDT is now live on Solana, Plasma, and Ethereum, offering seamless 1:1 USD onramps and offramps through Privy and Ramp. This expansion enhances stablecoin access and facilitates global money movement across these blockchain networks, providing users with more flexible and efficient options for USD conversion and transfer. The rollout aims to improve liquidity and usability in the Web3 ecosystem.