Pollak on the challenges of tokenization in the Base ecosystem - searching for the golden path

Jesse Pollak, co-founder of Base, recently addressed one of the most challenging questions facing the growing blockchain ecosystem. In an interview reported by Foresight News, Pollak examined complex issues related to tokenization and its impact on emerging builders—young developers building future applications. The problem is not simple: how can we support novice creators by providing access to tokens and opportunities to promote their projects without simultaneously creating negative market incentives?

Access for new builders—necessity and risk

For beginning builders, tokenization is a key gateway to the ecosystem. By receiving tokens, they can gather feedback from the community, refactor their products based on that feedback, and work on breakthrough solutions. However, the same tool carries significant risks—working in a competitive price environment, exposure to actions by anonymous developers, and operating under the stress of a fast-moving market, newcomers may lose motivation for long-term innovation.

Pollak points out specific negative side effects. The pursuit of quick profits can overshadow efforts to create genuinely new solutions. The risk associated with complete anonymity of some involved parties makes the ecosystem more vulnerable to manipulation and unethical practices.

Two extremes and their consequences—Pollak’s analysis

According to Pollak, there are two fundamental approaches, both of which have serious flaws. The first option—complete market freedom (laissez-faire)—leads to degradation. In conditions of total lack of restrictions, the ecosystem turns into a game for financiers, where price manipulation becomes the norm, and space for authentic innovation shrinks to zero.

The second extreme scenario—total ban on tokenization for young projects—also proves destructive. Such regulation-heavy restrictions would hinder the emergence of new builders in the ecosystem, stifle innovation, limit growth opportunities, and reinforce existing dominant positions.

Smart contracts as a future solution

Instead of choosing between extremes, Pollak proposed exploring new technological tools. Smart contracts could serve as a foundation for systems better suited to the challenges of tokenization. These solutions would have the potential to create fairer and more transparent mechanisms for access to tokens, protecting young builders without stifling innovation.

The Clawnch case—lessons on anonymity and trust

Pollak also commented on the Clawnch project as a practical illustration of the dilemma. According to reports, the developers behind this project remain completely anonymous—even to Pollak himself. The co-founder of Base admitted that he is watching the project with interest due to its intriguing development directions. However, he frankly emphasizes that full anonymity involves significant risks for the entire ecosystem.

The Clawnch example perfectly illustrates the tension Pollak seeks to articulate—how to create space for experimentation and new voices while minimizing potential threats related to lack of accountability and transparency.