Key Insights:
- Coinbase sets up an independent board to study how quantum computing could affect crypto security.
- Ethereum advances post-quantum research as part of long-term network protection plans.
- Market analysts link quantum concerns to cautious institutional crypto positioning
The quantum threat is now part of open conversations in the crypto industry as Coinbase moves to study how future advances in computing could affect blockchain security.
The ultimate goal is to preserve investor trust and the long-term safety of digital assets worldwide.
Coinbase and The Quantum Threat Advisory Board
Coinbase has announced the creation of an independent advisory board focused on quantum computing and its possible impact on crypto security.
The company said the board will study how stronger computers in the future could challenge the cryptography that protects wallets, transactions, and blockchain networks today.
Notably, Brian Armstrong, Coinbase’s Chief Executive Officer, said security remains the company’s top concern.
He explained that waiting until a problem becomes urgent is risky, especially in an industry built on trust.
According to him, even if the quantum threat is still far off, it deserves careful planning now rather than rushed fixes later.
The advisory board includes researchers with backgrounds in quantum computing, cryptography, blockchain design, and consensus systems.
Their task is to look closely at where current crypto systems may face pressure and suggest steps that can reduce long-term risk.
Coinbase stressed that this work does not mean blockchains are unsafe today. Instead, it reflects a push to stay ahead of future changes in technology.
Quantum computers, if they reach a certain level, could weaken the public key systems used across crypto markets.
These systems are central to how users prove ownership of funds. Coinbase wants expert guidance on how and when upgrades may be needed, and how those upgrades could happen without harming users.
In addition to this, by keeping the board independent, Coinbase is separating research from daily business decisions.
Notably, this approach allows technical discussions to happen without market pressure. It also places Coinbase among the first major exchanges to address the quantum threat in a public and structured way.
Ethereum Makes a Similar Security Move Besides Coinbase
Coinbase is not alone in this effort. The Ethereum Foundation recently confirmed that it has formed a dedicated post-quantum team to prepare the network for future risks linked to advanced computing.
Ethereum researcher Justin Drake described the move as a major step in long-term planning.
The team is led by Thomas Coratger and supported by engineers working on leanVM, a key part of Ethereum’s post-quantum design.
This work builds on research that began several years ago but has now moved into active development.
The foundation outlined several actions, including regular developer meetings, live testing environments, and funding for cryptographic research.
One example is a one-million-dollar prize aimed at strengthening hash-based cryptography.
Ethereum is also organizing workshops where experts can review progress and share findings.
More importantly, Ethereum’s efforts show that concerns about the quantum threat extend beyond exchanges.
Core blockchain developers are also preparing for a future where current security tools may need updates.
Ethereum now has a seat on the advisory board announced by Coinbase, linking both efforts.
Is The Quantum Threat Affecting Crypto Markets?
Some analysts believe the quantum threat is starting to influence market behavior.
Ran Neuner recently argued that crypto risk appetite slowed in late 2024, around the time Google revealed progress on its Willow quantum chip. This comes as other markets continued to rise.
He suggested that this type of pause often reflects deeper uncertainty rather than normal market cycles.
Neuner also pointed to the decision by strategist Christopher Wood to remove Bitcoin from his model portfolio and replace it with gold.
The reason, according to Wood, was concern over long-term cryptographic security.
There is no evidence that quantum computers can break major blockchains today. Still, large investors tend to avoid unresolved risks. Until clear answers and tested solutions emerge, caution may remain.