The article argues that Robinhood's decision to build its own dedicated blockchain, Robinhood Chain, as an Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) using Arbitrum technology is a powerful endorsement of Ethereum's L1+L2 model, not a rejection of it. This move reflects a broader shift in the crypto industry from projects focused on token monetization to real-world businesses building cash-generating operations. Historically, many crypto projects chose infrastructure to support token sales and speculative value. In contrast, businesses like Robinhood and Coinbase (with Base) choose infrastructure based on commercial needs: security, liquidity, customer reach, and control. Ethereum's model provides a trusted, neutral, and liquid global settlement layer (L1) coupled with customizable, high-performance execution environments (L2s). This allows companies to maintain control and specialization without the cost and risk of building an independent L1 from scratch. The author contends that as more traditional enterprises enter the space to build sustainable businesses, they will rationally select Ethereum's L1 for maximum security and liquidity and its L2s for scalability and customization. This trend strengthens Ethereum's network effects and the utility of ETH as the native gas and asset within this expanding ecosystem. Robinhood's choice is thus seen as a landmark example of pragmatic business strategy aligning with Ethereum's architectural strengths.
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