Base launches MCP to let AI agents execute on-chain DeFi

Base launched Base MCP on May 26, 2026. The Model Context Protocol gateway lets AI agents connect to users’ Base Accounts to propose and execute on-chain decentralized finance actions after users review and approve each transaction.

The gateway uses OAuth 2.1 to authenticate agent access and does not store private keys on its servers. Agents cannot sign or broadcast transactions on their own. When an agent proposes a sensitive action, such as a token transfer or swap, it generates a link that opens the Base App. The app shows a simulation of the asset changes and lets the user confirm or cancel before any on-chain activity occurs.

Users can run portfolio tracking, fund transfers, token swaps and other DeFi interactions inside supported chat clients. Base MCP plugs into AI interfaces including Claude, ChatGPT and Cursor. To use the feature, users install the MCP in a compatible AI client and authenticate with their Base Account.

At launch the gateway integrates with six ecosystem protocols via skill plugins. Morpho and Moonwell cover lending markets; Uniswap and Aerodrome handle swaps and liquidity pools; Avantis supports perpetual trading; and Bankr and Virtuals enable token launches and agent-issued tokens. Developers can write additional skill plugins using published markdown specifications that describe how agents should call external APIs and hand unsigned transactions to users for approval.

Base MCP supports x402-enabled micropayments and can read balances and transaction histories across other EVM-compatible chains. The gateway builds on existing Coinbase developer tooling such as Agentkit, embedded wallets and onramp services. A separate Payments MCP released earlier this year focuses on autonomous agent payments across Base, Polygon and Solana.

Earlier server code for Base MCP that appeared on GitHub has been deprecated and replaced by the current integration. Setup now centers on adding the MCP to compatible AI clients and authenticating with a Base Account. Base said it plans to add more skill plugins and ecosystem integrations and has published specifications for third-party builders.

The release requires explicit user approval for each transaction and keeps signing authority with the account holder. The launch prompted speculation about a possible BASE token; Base made no token announcement alongside the MCP rollout.

Base described the product as infrastructure for an agent-driven on-chain economy in which AI agents act as interfaces for decentralized applications and DeFi, proposing transactions that users must review and approve before they execute on-chain.