Crypto exchange Gate has launched Gate Layer, a proprietary Layer 2 blockchain designed to boost transaction throughput and reduce costs, while simultaneously rolling out a major upgrade to the GT (GateToken) ecosystem

Built on the OP Stack and fully compatible with Ethereum, Gate Layer is anchored by GateChain as its settlement layer, the company said in an emailed announcement on Wednesday.

Gate is positioning Gate Layer as the backbone of its “All in Web3” strategy, launching tools such as Perp, a perpetuals hub with CEX-level liquidity; Gate Fun, a no-code incubator for token launches; and Meme Go, a real-time cross-chain meme token tracker.

As part of the overhaul, GT will serve as the exclusive gas token for Gate Layer, while continuing its dual burn model. To date, over 180 million GT have been burned, about 60% of initial supply.

Gate’s move follows a growing trend of major exchanges, including Coinbase with Base, launching their own Layer 2s to capture more user activity onchain. By pairing infrastructure with native tokenomics, exchanges are seeking to deepen liquidity, expand ecosystems, and position themselves as full-stack Web3 providers—not just trading venues.