Coinbase Urges Bitcoin Quantum Upgrade Amid Lost-Coin Debate

Coinbase is calling for a phased overhaul of Bitcoin’s cryptographic security, arguing that developers should prioritize practical migration tools rather than wait for agreement on how to handle potentially vulnerable, inactive holdings. In an October 13 paper, Coinbase’s Shashank Agrawal outlined the exchange’s preferred approach to post-quantum preparation, including flexible address designs, alternative signing methods and compatibility with institutional custody systems. The company’s interest extends beyond research. Coinbase says it safeguards approximately 5% of all Bitcoin in existence, giving it considerable operational exposure to any future change in how transactions are authorized. Its proposals remain recommendations for community discussion.