[HIP-39] - Improve Superchain Liquidity Structure

Introduction

This proposal aims to enhance our omnichain liquidity channels to and from the Superchain. With the upcoming SuperchainERC20s becoming fully interoperable within the Superchain, we have the opportunity to concentrate incentives per token on a single Optimism pool while leveraging native interop for efficient asset transfers.

In anticipation of native interop activation, we propose deprecating the current WuOPsETH gauge and splitting it into two distinct gauges: baseWETH and opWETH, each paired with arbWETH. This configuration not only enables us to phase out the baseWETH pool in the future but also creates a streamlined and efficient liquidity route into the Superchain.

Furthermore, with our upcoming intents upgrade, liquidity will be primarily used for rebalancing. This shift in focus means that gauges for USDC and USDT—which solvers currently use native bridging for rebalancing—can be removed. Concentrating emissions on high-impact liquidity pools will better support our evolving ecosystem needs.

Gauge to be removed:  

• WuOPs-ETH / WETH - 0.05%  

To be replaced with:  

• WETH (OP) / WETH - 0.01% (min width: 1)  
• WETH (BASE) / WETH - 0.01% (min width: 1)  

Strategic Alignment

This update is strategically aligned with our long-term vision to simplify and optimize liquidity across chains. By consolidating token incentives:

• We prepare the ecosystem for a smoother transition to native interop, easing liquidity migration.
• We reduce redundant gauges, focusing on pools that directly contribute to efficient asset rebalancing.

Overall, this proposal positions us to leverage upcoming technological upgrades and further solidify our position in the omnichain liquidity space.

Gauge Performance Analysis

Our analysis indicates that while the existing WuOPsETH gauge has served its purpose, it is no longer optimal given our forward-looking strategy. Splitting it into baseWETH and opWETH gauges allows for:

• Isolating liquidity streams to better manage transitions during and after the native interop activation.
• Facilitating the eventual deprecation of the baseWETH pool, thereby simplifying the liquidity route.
• Concentrating emissions on pools that are directly aligned with our intents upgrade, focusing resources into liquidity that supports rebalancing operations.

Market Impact Analysis

Implementing these changes is expected to yield significant benefits:

• Efficient Liquidity Migration: By streamlining liquidity channels, we can more readily shift assets as native interop comes online.
• Optimized Incentives: Consolidating emissions into fewer, more impactful gauges creates a more attractive environment for liquidity providers and aligns incentives with our future network structure.
• Future-Proofing: These adjustments lay the groundwork for further integration of SuperchainERC20s, ensuring that our liquidity structure evolves alongside technological advances in interchain operability.

In summary, this proposal represents a proactive step toward a more efficient and resilient liquidity framework—one that will support our ecosystem’s growth and adaptability in an increasingly interconnected DeFi landscape.