Base chain is under scrutiny following claims that it functions as an unlicensed centralized securities exchange due to its centralized sequencer. Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer and Base's head have clarified that the sequencer's role is limited to ordering transactions, with matching handled by decentralized smart contracts, distinguishing Base from traditional centralized exchanges. Critics, however, argue that the centralized sequencer could allow for significant control over transaction ordering, potentially leading to MEV extraction and transaction manipulation. Despite these concerns, Base has reported substantial earnings, with $51.1 million generated in the past month and $870 million over the past year, according to growthepie. This financial success has intensified debates about the chain's centralization and its implications for decentralization efforts.