Starting in January 2023, Coinbase Wallet users will no longer be able to buy, sell, send, or receive four major cryptocurrencies: XRP (Ripple), BCH (Bitcoin Cash), ETC (Ethereum Classic), and XLM (Stellar). This decision marks a significant shift in the platform’s supported digital assets, driven by declining user engagement and strategic product optimization.
Why Is Coinbase Wallet Removing These Cryptocurrencies?
The delisting stems from what Coinbase describes as “low usage” of these particular assets within the Coinbase Wallet ecosystem. As part of its ongoing efforts to streamline functionality and enhance user experience, the self-custody wallet is focusing on maintaining support for the most actively traded and widely adopted cryptocurrencies.
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This move does not mean that users will lose their existing holdings. According to Coinbase’s official help page, any unsupported assets held in a wallet remain tied to the user’s blockchain address and can still be accessed using the wallet’s recovery phrase. This ensures full control remains with the user—a core principle of self-custody.
However, Coinbase has issued a strong warning: attempting to send or receive unsupported tokens through the wallet could result in permanent loss of funds. Once these cryptocurrencies are delisted, the wallet interface will no longer recognize them, increasing the risk of transaction errors.
Key Differences: Coinbase Wallet vs. Coinbase Exchange
It’s crucial to understand that this change applies specifically to Coinbase Wallet, the non-custodial mobile app that allows users to manage their private keys. The broader Coinbase exchange platform continues to support trading for most of these assets—though with notable exceptions.
For example, XRP trading was suspended on the Coinbase exchange in January 2021 due to an ongoing legal investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). While other platforms resumed XRP trading after regulatory clarity improved, Coinbase has maintained its cautious stance.
Despite this, Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), and Stellar (XLM) remain available for trading on the main exchange, underscoring that the delisting is specific to the wallet product rather than a company-wide rejection of these cryptos.
What This Means for Crypto Users
The removal of these four assets highlights a growing trend among major crypto platforms: prioritizing usability, security, and regulatory compliance over supporting every available token. With thousands of cryptocurrencies in existence, platforms must curate their offerings to prevent clutter, reduce technical debt, and minimize risks associated with low-liquidity or underutilized tokens.
From a user perspective, those holding XRP, BCH, ETC, or XLM in Coinbase Wallet should consider transferring their assets to another compatible wallet before January 2023. Popular alternatives include Trust Wallet, Exodus, and Ledger Live—all of which continue to support these tokens.
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Additionally, users should double-check recovery phrases and ensure backups are stored safely offline. Losing access to a recovery phrase after delisting could make retrieving assets extremely difficult, even if they remain on the blockchain.
Broader Implications for the Crypto Ecosystem
This delisting reflects the maturation of the cryptocurrency industry. As adoption grows, platforms are becoming more selective about which assets they support—not just based on popularity, but also on factors like network activity, developer engagement, community strength, and regulatory risk.
XRP, for instance, remains controversial due to its centralized structure and ongoing legal battles. ETC has seen declining developer interest compared to Ethereum (ETH), while BCH and XLM have faced stiff competition from newer payment-focused blockchains.
By focusing on high-utility, high-demand assets, Coinbase Wallet aims to provide a cleaner, safer user experience—especially important as crypto attracts more mainstream users who may lack technical expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Coinbase Wallet delisting XRP, BCH, ETC, and XLM?
Coinbase Wallet cites low usage as the primary reason. The platform is streamlining its supported assets to improve performance, security, and user experience by focusing on more actively used cryptocurrencies.
Will I lose my XRP, BCH, ETC, or XLM if I keep them in Coinbase Wallet?
No, your assets will not disappear. They remain on the blockchain and are accessible via your recovery phrase. However, you won’t be able to view or manage them through the Coinbase Wallet interface after delisting.
Can I still trade these coins on Coinbase?
Yes—partially. Trading for BCH, ETC, and XLM continues on the main Coinbase exchange. However, XRP trading remains suspended due to regulatory concerns from the SEC investigation.
What should I do if I hold these cryptocurrencies?
You should transfer your holdings to a wallet that supports these tokens before January 2023. Make sure to use a trusted wallet and verify addresses carefully to avoid losing funds.
Is this a sign that these cryptocurrencies are failing?
Not necessarily. Delisting reflects usage patterns on a specific platform rather than overall viability. These coins still have active communities and use cases, though their market prominence has diminished compared to top-tier cryptos like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Does this affect all Coinbase products?
No. This change only impacts Coinbase Wallet, the self-custody app. The main exchange and other services may have different asset listings and policies.
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Final Thoughts
The delisting of XRP, BCH, ETC, and XLM from Coinbase Wallet signals a shift toward leaner, more focused digital asset management tools. While inconvenient for some users, it aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing usability, security, and sustainability.
As the crypto landscape evolves, users must stay informed about platform changes and take proactive steps to manage their digital wealth. Whether it's updating wallets, monitoring exchange policies, or understanding regulatory developments, active participation is key to long-term success in the decentralized economy.
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