Coinbase is entering the crypto perpetual futures race with a move that could reshape the current dynamics in the derivatives sector. The exchange’s new product directly challenges Hyperliquid, a decentralized exchange (DEX) that saw explosive growth this year and has emerged as a key player in this market segment.

Hyperliquid’s native token, HYPE, surged 183% during the second quarter, far outperforming Bitcoin’s 30% gains. However, with Coinbase now stepping into the ring, analysts and investors are assessing whether HYPE can maintain its momentum or face renewed selling pressure.

Coinbase Unveils CFTC-Compliant Perpetuals

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong revealed the new futures product via social media, indicating the product was built in response to user demand. The exchange plans to offer nano Bitcoin (0.01 BTC) and nano Ethereum (0.10 ETH) contracts. These will follow a perpetual structure, meaning they don’t expire, and will include hourly funding rates to maintain price parity with spot markets.

More importantly, the product is fully CFTC-compliant, targeting the U.S. retail and institutional market. By offering a regulated alternative to offshore platforms, Coinbase is signaling its intent to compete directly with platforms like Hyperliquid, Bybit, and OKX.

This development could be disruptive for Hyperliquid, which operates without KYC requirements and provides access to high-leverage positions. While these features have drawn in a loyal user base, Coinbase’s regulated approach may appeal to a broader, compliance-conscious audience.

HYPE’s Position at Risk?

Hyperliquid has carved a niche with $2.78 billion in open interest for Bitcoin derivatives, placing it fourth behind Binance, Bybit, and OKX. That’s a significant achievement for a DEX barely a year old. However, the threat from Coinbase has created uncertainty.

Messari analyst Troy Harris described Coinbase’s move as “net bearish for Hyperliquid,” suggesting that traders and investors might shift toward Coinbase or even other U.S.-regulated brokers like Robinhood. Harris stated, “Given the choices of HYPE, COIN, or HOOD, I’m going HOOD.”

Even Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, voiced skepticism in a recent interview. He estimated that 30,000 Hyperliquid users could potentially migrate to Coinbase for ease of access and regulatory clarity.

Despite this, some believe Hyperliquid will retain its edge due to its non-custodial model, lower fees, and anonymity. The appeal of decentralized trading remains strong among crypto-native users who prioritize sovereignty over regulation.

Whales Still Betting on HYPE

While the debate continues, whale activity has been picking up. Institutional players such as Galaxy Digital and Manifold Trading recently deposited nearly $50 million and began accumulating HYPE. This indicates long-term confidence in the project despite short-term headwinds.

However, retail sentiment has yet to catch up. According to Santiment data, weighted sentiment around HYPE has remained negative to neutral since June 20. This suggests that while large holders are positioning for a possible rebound, smaller investors are still cautious.

CoinGlass’ 7-day Liquidation Heatmap also revealed significant liquidity clusters around $33, $35, and $39.6—price levels that could act as magnets in the event of large moves. With HYPE’s price hovering near both ends of this liquidity spectrum, traders are preparing for volatility.

What’s Next for Hyperliquid?

The coming weeks could prove decisive. As Coinbase gears up for its July 21 entry into the perpetuals market, traders will be closely watching user flows, derivatives volume, and whether Hyperliquid’s market share begins to shrink.

For now, Hyperliquid still benefits from first-mover advantage in the decentralized derivatives space. Its reputation for fast execution, deep liquidity, and strong token performance remains intact. However, it now faces its most formidable challenger yet.

Coinbase’s ability to attract U.S.-based institutional traders could be a game-changer, especially if it manages to replicate the product efficiency and user experience that decentralized exchanges offer, while providing legal clarity.

Conclusion

Coinbase’s move into the perpetual futures market marks a pivotal moment in the crypto derivatives landscape. While Hyperliquid has so far dominated with its fast-growing DEX model, it now faces stiff competition from a regulated heavyweight. The impact on HYPE’s price remains uncertain, with whale accumulation and cautious sentiment tugging in opposite directions.

Whether Coinbase will siphon off enough users to alter Hyperliquid’s trajectory is still unclear. But one thing is certain: the battle for dominance in the crypto derivatives market just became more competitive than ever.