Base launches Cobalt upgrade with conditional trades and B20 asset controls

Base has activated Cobalt, its third major mainnet upgrade, introducing new functionalities for conditional trading and tokenized asset management.

The upgrade introduces Validity Transactions, which allow traders to submit orders that only execute when specific network conditions are met, such as reaching a certain asset price or a specific block number. These transactions can remain private until they are included on-chain, a feature designed to reduce exposure to arbitrage bots. If the predefined conditions are not met within a set timeframe, the transaction expires without execution.

Additionally, the update expands the B20 token standard to provide enhanced controls for tokenized assets. This includes new tools for compliance, such as integrating KYC or sanctions policies, and administrative functions for managing tokens on-chain. These features aim to support the issuance of regulated assets, including stablecoins, by providing a framework for rule-based asset management.