741.79K
1.73M
2024-04-12 04:00:00 ~ 2024-04-19 09:30:00
2024-04-19 11:00:00
Total supply2.10B
Resources
Introduction
Merlin Chain is a native Bitcoin Layer2 committed to empowering Bitcoin's native assets, protocols, and products on Layer1 through its Layer2 network.The underlying infrastructure of Merlin Chain is built on Polygon's ZK technology, with a decentralized Oracle network for data availability, powered by Lumoz's decentralized ZK computing power network for ZKP computation. It allows challengers to present fraud proofs on disputed matters, utilizing Bitcoin's robust consensus mechanism to ensure the security of the Merlin Chain network.
Every Coin Terminal sale participant has been automatically put into the platform’s monthly on-chain $10,000 cryptocurrency lottery since its introduction. Winners are publicly chosen using Chainlink VRF, a provably fair and verifiable random number generator, to guarantee equity and openness. Coin Terminal, the first open-access Web3 launchpad with refund rights in the market, is offering free lottery tickets to customers as an additional incentive. Yurii Ovsii, a 44-year-old Ukrainian who escaped his war-torn nation and now lives in Florida, was the most recent fortunate contender to collect the reward. Every Coin Terminal sale participant has been automatically put into the platform’s monthly on-chain $10,000 cryptocurrency lottery since its introduction last summer, even if they subsequently want a refund for their purchase. Winners are publicly chosen using Chainlink VRF, a provably fair and verifiable random number generator, to guarantee equity and openness. Ovsii, a DeFi enthusiast who has a knack for spotting excellent early-ventures, has pledged $14,000 to Project Merlin, a decentralized Web3 environment designed to support the expansion of entrepreneurs. Coin Terminal, the sole launchpad that grants 100% refund rights to participants in the Merlin sale, complied with Ovsii’s later request for a refund after Binance’s decision to revoke the project’s Alpha listing. Yurii was thrilled to get his investment returned, but he was even more shocked to discover that he had won $10,000 in the lottery. “I couldn’t believe it when Coin Terminal contacted me to let me know that I’d won, I thought that I was dreaming,” shared Yurii. “I am going to use this money to enter more launches at Coin Terminal and, most importantly, pay for a holiday in order to spend some quality time with my family. I feel so blessed to have won this lottery, even though I had refunded my entry.” Even if they subsequently get a refund, each user who contributes $250 or more to a Coin Terminal sale is automatically eligible to win the grand prize and enter the monthly lottery. There were 1,200 entries in the lottery that Yurii won. Along with offering consumers a free lottery ticket, Coin Terminal’s dedication to accessibility ensures that anybody may participate without having to stake tokens and enjoy an unwavering money-back guarantee in the event that the project doesn’t work out. The launchpad offers customers the opportunity to co-invest with some of the largest venture capital organizations in the market, having completed sales supported by many well-known VC firms, including Coinbase Ventures, Animoca Brands, DCG, OKX Ventures, and Binance Labs. With an emphasis on authenticity, inclusion, and trust, Coin Terminal has launched more than 80 projects since its 2024 inception, including as the AIT protocol, StarHeroes, and K9 Finance. Along with investors like Binance Labs, Samsung NEXT, Arthur Hayes, and many more, Coin Terminal is a prominent Web3 launchpad.
We are thrilled to announce that Bitget has launched isolated spot margin trading for SKY/USDT, ALGO/USDT, MERL/USDT. New listing promotion: To celebrate the listing of new coins, Bitget will randomly distribute spot margin interest vouchers or position vouchers to users. Spot margin interest vouchers can be used to offset part or all of the borrowing interest in margin trades. Position vouchers allow users to open margin trade positions without using their own funds. You can claim vouchers in the Coupons Center . References: Three steps to complete Bitget spot margin trading Disclaimer Cryptocurrencies are subject to high market risk and volatility despite high growth potential. Users should conduct their own research and invest at their own discretion. Bitget shall not be liable for any investment losses. Join Bitget, the World's Leading Crypto Exchange and Web3 Company Sign up on Bitget now >>> Follow us on X >>> Join our Community >>>
Bitcoin stalls near $116K as Fed’s policy decision draws focus. Major altcoins trade sideways amid low volumes and uncertainty. Velora (VLR) and Project Merlin (MRLN) set to redefine DeFi ecosystems. Bitcoin is once again testing the nerves of crypto market participants as its price hovers near $1,16,000, battling a stubborn resistance just as the global spotlight turns to the US Federal Reserve’s mid-September policy meeting. In the early hours of September 16, Bitcoin traded at $1,15,200, trimming modest overnight gains amid lower trading volumes and a cautious risk mood. The benchmark cryptocurrency’s market cap stands at a robust $2.29 trillion, with 24-hour volumes just over $52 billion, evidence that, while enthusiasm has tempered, the appetite for digital gold remains very much alive. The shadow of the Fed’s upcoming decision has left broader markets listless, and crypto is no exception. Investors remain on high alert for clues around possible rate adjustments after a string of resilient US inflation data. Any shift in policy or surprise rhetoric could produce short, sharp moves across all risk assets, with Bitcoin particularly sensitive given its recent struggle to clear the $1,16,000 threshold. Bullish momentum still elusive Ethereum, the second-largest digital asset by market cap, followed suit, changing hands at $4,522. Ether has struggled to regain bullish momentum since its recent spike to $4,609 and is now trading in a narrow band with tepid demand from larger holders. Despite a record high in stablecoin activity on its chain last week, ETH appears tethered to macro narratives, quietly mirroring Bitcoin’s cautious trajectory. XRP, meanwhile, steadied at $2.99 after pulling back from recent local highs. Recent treasury movements from notable digital asset management firms have steadied sentiment but haven’t sparked breakout momentum, as regulatory debates around the token continue to play out in key jurisdictions. Solana is also in the spotlight, with its price down slightly to $233.67 following last week’s rally. The token, known for its fast and low-cost transaction capabilities, has seen volatility creep back in, as short-term traders wade in to capture swings on the back of the broader market’s uncertainty. Technical analysts note the next major support levels sit close to $220, underscoring the need for positive catalysts to maintain current valuations. Dogecoin, always the wildcard, is trading at $0.2677 after a 24-hour spell that saw the meme coin flirt with both $0.26 support and $0.28 resistance. While DOGE’s narrative is often ruled by social media and celebrity hype, the current environment has left even seasoned “shibes” trading cautiously, awaiting clearer signals from both the Fed and broader risk markets. With key resistance levels drawing closer across major coins, market eyes will remain glued to the outcome of the Fed meeting. Until then, expect crypto prices to oscillate around their current bands, with Bitcoin eyeing that crucial $1,16,000 break as the catalyst for renewed bullish conviction or yet another test of market resolve. New launches fuel crypto buzz Several major crypto launches and ecosystem upgrades are about to shake up the market, promising to unleash a new spark of trading action. On Tuesday, all eyes are on Velora (VLR) and Project Merlin (MRLN) as they make their much-anticipated debuts. Velora’s launch signals a push into the next generation of DeFi, with its $VLR token powering intent-based cross-chain trading and unlocking gasless staking and community rewards. Meanwhile, Project Merlin steps onto the scene offering an all-in-one Web3 ecosystem that connects blockchain entrepreneurs, communities, and investors, complete with a robust launchpad, crowdfunding, and freelance ecosystem, all tied together by the $MRLN token and launching with airdrops across major exchanges. These releases are more than just hype; they reflect how the industry is charging ahead with technical innovation and shifting toward tailored, ecosystem-first infrastructure. But it’s not just token launches grabbing investor attention. On the regulatory front, Hong Kong just locked in fresh banking capital guidelines for digital assets, set to take effect in January 2026. The big shift? Banks are facing a 1:1 capital provision for any exposure to “permissionless” blockchains. The move is expected to bolster confidence for institutional players looking for a safer entry into crypto markets. Added to that, Ripple is making headlines via a new partnership in Japan that brings its RLUSD stablecoin further into the nation’s payments rails, underscoring digital assets’ climb toward mainstream financial integration.
Foresight News reported, according to monitoring by Lookonchain, in the past 6 days, two whale addresses (starting with 0x7Dac and 0xB5eE) have withdrawn 98.24 million MERL from exchanges, worth approximately $14.9 million.
Banks seek their own governance rather than external blockchains SWIFT sees public blockchains as an execution layer only. Cryptocurrencies spark debates on neutrality and institutional trust SWIFT's Chief Innovation Officer, Tom Zschach, stated that traditional banks are unlikely to fully transfer transaction settlement to external blockchains or distributed systems. According to him, open source code and the transparency of public networks alone do not guarantee the trust required by financial institutions. For the executive, governance, compliance, and legal enforceability must be under the internal control of the entities themselves. Zschach emphasized that while distributed ledgers offer programmability, financial institutions don't want to "live on a competitor's tracks." He classified public blockchains, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, as a "substrate," a useful technological foundation, but insufficient to meet the requirements of trusted settlement in the banking sector. "Public blockchains are the baseline environment for execution. The transformation occurs when you add the layer of trust that makes the results legally enforceable, compliant, and safe to scale," the executive wrote in a LinkedIn post. According to Zschach, the next stage of integration will not be crypto networks replacing the financial system, but rather the financial sector absorbing the best of public blockchains on its own terms. The SWIFT executive also refuted the idea that tokens like XRP would be the ideal option for banks simply because they survive regulatory processes. In a comment that was later removed, he stated that "surviving lawsuits is not resilience," reinforcing that institutional trust depends on neutral and shared governance, not on a single company. He added that neutrality in finance isn't defined by the number of nodes or simply being open source. He believes billion-dollar disputes can't be resolved by validators alone, but rather by solid legal frameworks, noting that SWIFT acts as a neutral intermediary between more than 11.000 global institutions. Cryptocurrency entrepreneurs, however, disagreed. Evgeny Yurtaev, CEO of Zerion, argued that true neutrality comes from open protocols that ensure fairness through code. Similarly, Merlin Egalite, co-founder of Morpho, argued that DeFi infrastructure should have immutable code, minimal governance, and no bias, unlike the model adopted by SWIFT. The discussion reinforces the gap between the vision of traditional finance and the proposal of cryptocurrencies, where decentralization is seen as the way to ensure equity and resilience. Tags: SWIFT
Key Takeaways: CIMG Inc. completes $55M Bitcoin acquisition. 500 BTC purchased through share sale, strategic focus noted. Stock sees slight decline, long-term holding plans emphasized. CIMG Inc. Completes $55M Bitcoin Purchase via Share Sale CIMG Inc. completed a $55 million Bitcoin acquisition through a share sale, purchasing 500 BTC to enhance its digital asset reserve strategy. This purchase signals a growing trend among companies adopting Bitcoin as a treasury asset, influencing market dynamics and showcasing institutional interest in digital currencies. CIMG Inc. finalized a $55 million Bitcoin purchase by issuing 220 million shares priced at $0.25 each. This acquisition aligns with their long-term digital asset strategy, acquiring 500 BTC to strengthen their position in the crypto market. Company leadership, including CEO Wang Jianshuang and the corporate board, endorsed the move. CIMG positions itself within blockchain and AI sectors. They emphasize expanding digital asset holdings, collaborating with entities like Merlin Chain . This transaction shows CIMG’s commitment to increasing its crypto reserves. The strategy impacts investor perspectives as part of broader blockchain interest. CIMG’s stock fell 3.53%, marking a market response to their announcement. Financial implications include diversification into crypto assets, echoing corporate treasury trends seen with firms like MicroStrategy. Market dynamics reflect shifting interest toward Bitcoin-based assets within corporate finance sectors. Potentially influential, CIMG’s strategy could prompt similar actions among firms. The approach may affect crypto asset valuations, instigating broader market actions. Compounded by sector pressures, long-term effects remain to be seen. The move aligns with historical Bitcoin treasury expansions by other corporations. Industry trends evidence increasing crypto adaptation within financial ecosystems, suggesting possible regulatory focus shifts, especially regarding corporate digital asset management strategies. “The Company intends to continue to increase its digital asset reserves and pursue collaborations across AI and crypto ecosystems, such as Merlin Chain.” – Wang Jianshuang, Chairman & CEO, CIMG Inc.
Foresight News reports that the AI-driven governance protocol Quack AI has completed a $3.6 million funding round, with participation from Animoca Brands, 071labs, Skyland Ventures, Kenetic, Scaling Labs, Carv, and Merlin Chain, among others. Quack AI utilizes autonomous AI agents to read, analyze, and execute DAO proposals across multiple blockchains.
ChainCatcher reports that Quack AI has successfully completed a $3.6 million funding round, with notable investors including Animoca Brands, Kenetic Capital, Skyland Ventures, 071Labs, Scaling Labs, CARV Labs, and Merlin Chain. This funding will accelerate Quack AI’s efforts to build a comprehensive AI governance infrastructure, further advancing decentralized decision-making within the Web3 ecosystem. Quack AI is a modular governance layer capable of automating proposal generation, risk scoring, voting, and execution, making it widely applicable for cross-chain governance and providing AI-driven governance solutions for blockchain projects. To date, Quack AI has partnered with several public chains such as BNB Chain, Linea, Metis, and Taiko, with over 40 projects adopting its AI governance solutions. More than 660,000 users have minted the Quack AI Passport, driving the practical implementation and adoption of its AI governance solutions.
Odaily Planet Daily reports that Merlin Chain has unveiled the new Merlin 2.0, introducing the development direction of "Reinvent Bitcoin: Hold, Earn, Invest," aiming to expand Bitcoin from a "store of value" to a "yield-generating, deployable core asset." Merlin 2.0 focuses on three main areas: BTCFi expansion, chain abstraction technology, and AI applications (such as Merlin Wizard), further enhancing BTC's liquidity and utility within the multi-chain ecosystem. At the same time, it lowers the threshold for BTC usage, allowing users to participate in various cross-chain investment opportunities without converting to other assets, making it easy to hold BTC, earn yields, and engage in liquidity activities. According to previous reports, since the mainnet launch in February 2024, Merlin Chain has driven the rise of BTCFi, giving birth to several representative projects including Solv, Bedrock, Avalon, and Babylon, with on-chain BTC staking once exceeding $3.8 billion. Currently, the Merlin ecosystem contributes approximately $2 billion in BTCFi TVL, accounting for over 20% of the total.
Odaily Planet Daily reports that Bitcoin Layer2 network Merlin Chain has officially launched its BTC staking feature, allowing users to participate in the PoS mechanism with BTC, with current annualized returns reaching up to 21%. The first phase of the staking vault is now open, with a capacity limit of 50 BTC. Reward settlement is expected to take place in early October 2025, and the capacity will be gradually expanded based on market demand. This update marks Merlin Chain's official entry into the Bitcoin PoS phase, enabling users to participate in network security and earn rewards with BTC without off-chain operations. Merlin Chain founder Jeff stated that the team will continue to promote the standardization of the BTC staking mechanism in the future, build a cross-chain BTC liquidity network, and provide composable and yield-generating infrastructure support for BTC. Previously, Merlin Chain's Layer2 mapped asset M-BTC was deployed on more than 20 major blockchains, including Ethereum, Solana, Kaito, and Sui, with active TVL exceeding $4 billion. On the ecosystem front, Merlin Chain has partnered with several BTCFi projects such as Babylon and Zerolend to advance scenarios like staking, lending, and restaking, and has provided early support to long-term BTCFi participants including Solv Protocol and Avalon Labs.
Exciting news for cryptocurrency enthusiasts and holders of the MERL token! Merlin Chain , a prominent Bitcoin Layer 2 protocol, has just announced a significant development set to capture the attention of those seeking yield in the digital asset space. The protocol is launching a new fixed-term Merlin Chain Staking program, offering a highly competitive annual percentage rate (APR) for participants. What is Merlin Chain and Why Does Staking Matter? Before diving into the specifics of the new program, it’s essential to understand what Merlin Chain is. It operates as a Bitcoin Layer 2 solution, aiming to enhance the scalability, efficiency, and functionality of the Bitcoin network. By building on top of Bitcoin, Merlin Chain seeks to unlock new possibilities for decentralized applications (dApps), DeFi protocols, and more, leveraging Bitcoin’s robust security while offering faster and cheaper transactions. Crypto Staking is a fundamental mechanism in many blockchain networks, allowing participants to lock up their tokens to support network operations, such as validating transactions or securing the chain. In return for their participation and commitment, stakers receive rewards, typically in the form of additional tokens. For users, staking represents a way to earn passive income on their digital assets, contributing to the network’s health while potentially growing their holdings. Merlin Chain’s introduction of a formal staking program for its native MERL token is a natural step in fostering ecosystem participation and providing utility for token holders. It aligns MERL holders’ incentives with the long-term success and stability of the Merlin Chain network. Details of the MERL Staking Program: A Look at the 45% APR The core of Merlin Chain’s announcement revolves around the specifics of the upcoming MERL Staking program. Here’s what has been revealed so far: Token Involved: The staking program utilizes the native MERL token. Staking Type: It’s a fixed-term staking program, meaning tokens are locked for a specific duration. Lock-up Period: The announced lock-up period is six months. This requires participants to commit their MERL tokens for half a year to earn the advertised rate. Advertised APR: The headline figure is a remarkable 45% APR. This represents the potential annual return on the staked MERL tokens, calculated before compounding effects or fluctuations in the token’s price. Rewards Claimability: A user-friendly feature mentioned is that rewards will be claimable at any time, even though the principal is locked for the six-month term. This provides participants with flexibility regarding their earned yield. A 45% APR in the current crypto landscape is notably high and is likely designed to incentivize significant participation and lock up a substantial amount of MERL tokens, thereby reducing circulating supply and potentially adding price support. Why Choose Fixed-Term MERL Staking? Benefits and Considerations Fixed-term staking, like the one offered by Merlin Chain, comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages compared to flexible staking options. Benefits for Stakers: Potentially Higher Yield: Fixed terms often offer higher APRs than flexible options as a reward for the commitment and reduced liquidity. The 45% APR offered here is a prime example. Predictable Income Stream (in tokens): While the USD value fluctuates with the MERL price, the rate at which you earn MERL tokens is fixed for the period, offering predictability in token accumulation. Encourages Long-Term Holding: The lock-up period can help stakers resist the urge to sell during short-term market volatility, aligning their strategy with the protocol’s long-term vision. Supporting the Network: By staking, users contribute to the stability and health of the Merlin Chain network. Considerations (Challenges/Risks): Illiquidity: The most significant factor is the six-month lock-up. Staked MERL cannot be accessed or traded during this period, regardless of market movements or personal financial needs. Market Price Risk: While you earn a high APR in MERL tokens, the USD value of your stake and rewards is entirely dependent on the market price of MERL. If the price drops significantly over the six months, the value of your total holdings (principal + rewards) might be less than your initial investment, even with the high yield. Smart Contract Risk: As with any DeFi protocol, there’s a risk associated with the smart contracts governing the staking program. Although audits are common, vulnerabilities can potentially lead to loss of funds. Protocol Risk: The success and sustainability of the 45% APR depend on the overall health and growth of the Merlin Chain ecosystem. How Does This Staking Program Impact the Bitcoin Layer 2 Landscape? The introduction of attractive Merlin Chain Staking with a high yield like 45% APR could draw significant attention and capital to the Merlin Chain ecosystem. For the broader Bitcoin Layer 2 space, this highlights the increasing sophistication and yield-generating opportunities emerging on these scaling solutions. It signals Merlin Chain’s commitment to building a vibrant economy around its token and protocol. By offering competitive staking rewards, they aim to attract users, secure the network (if staking is tied to consensus or validation), and create demand for the MERL token. This move also puts pressure on other Layer 2 protocols to offer compelling incentives for token holders, potentially leading to increased innovation and competition in the space, ultimately benefiting users looking for yield opportunities. Is a 45% APR Sustainable? Actionable Insights for Potential Stakers When encountering a high APR like 45% APR, it’s natural to question its sustainability. Such high yields are often funded through various mechanisms, including: Token emissions (minting new MERL tokens as rewards). Protocol revenue (if applicable). Incentive programs designed for bootstrapping liquidity and participation. If the yield is primarily funded through token emissions, it’s important to consider the potential inflationary pressure this might put on the MERL token price, especially after the fixed staking period ends and staked tokens are unlocked. Actionable Insights: Do Your Own Research (DYOR): Before committing funds, thoroughly research Merlin Chain, the MERL token, the specifics of the staking contract, and the team behind it. Understand the Risks: Be fully aware of the illiquidity risk for six months and the price volatility risk of MERL. Only stake funds you can afford to have locked and potentially see decrease in USD value. Evaluate the Source of Yield: Try to understand how the 45% APR is generated. Is it sustainable long-term, or is it primarily a short-term incentive? Assess Your Goals: Does a six-month fixed term align with your investment strategy and liquidity needs? Start Small (Optional): If you’re unsure, consider staking a smaller amount first to understand the process and monitor the program’s performance. Conclusion: Weighing the High Yield Opportunity Merlin Chain’s announcement of a fixed six-month MERL Staking program with a potential 45% APR presents an enticing opportunity for those looking to earn significant yield on their crypto assets within the Bitcoin Layer 2 ecosystem. The high rate is designed to attract users and strengthen the protocol by locking up tokens. However, potential participants must carefully weigh the attractive yield against the inherent risks, particularly the six-month illiquidity period and the price volatility of the MERL token. While the promise of earning a 45% APR is compelling, a prudent approach involves thorough research and a clear understanding of the terms and risks involved in any Crypto Staking venture. As the program rolls out, the crypto community will be watching to see the level of participation and its impact on the Merlin Chain ecosystem and the MERL token. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin price action . Disclaimer: The information provided is not trading advice, Bitcoinworld.co.in holds no liability for any investments made based on the information provided on this page. We strongly recommend independent research and/or consultation with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions.
While PancakeSwap leads in the DeFi market, CAKE’s price has yet to catch up with the platform’s momentum. With current technical advancements and strategies, PancakeSwap has the potential to continue growing, but the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. PancakeSwap’s Rise in the DeFi Market PancakeSwap, one of the decentralized exchanges (DEX) on BNB Chain, is solidifying its strong position in decentralized finance (DeFi). According to the latest data from Dune Analytics, PancakeSwap led in trading volume market share over the past seven days, with an impressive 66.9%. PancakeSwap’s monthly volume. Source: DefiLlama Not stopping there, DefiLlama reports that the exchange recorded a monthly trading volume of up to $149 billion. This figure surpasses its major competitor on Ethereum, Uniswap, which recorded $86 billion. Moreover, PancakeSwap’s fees have reached over $120 million over the past 30 days. This has placed the platform in the top 3 and even surpassed Pump.fun, a prominent name in the DeFi space. PancakeSwap’s fees. Source: DefiLlama This remarkable growth can be attributed to recent technical improvements made by PancakeSwap. A post on X from PancakeSwap’s official account on May 22 stated that the team optimized its data acquisition mechanism using an internal indexer. This addressed the issue of delayed TVL (Total Value Locked) data from external providers, which lasted over two weeks and affected optimal trade routing on Binance Wallet Swap. After implementing this solution, PancakeSwap restored optimal routing functionality and collaborated with external providers to build a stronger platform, preventing similar issues in the future. These technical enhancements improved performance but also strengthened user confidence in the platform. Additionally, the launch of the Infinity upgrade (formerly PancakeSwap v4) in late April 2025 significantly contributed to its current success. This upgrade introduced capital-efficient liquidity pools, hooks, and customizable fees, creating more favorable conditions for liquidity providers on BNB Chain. These factors have helped PancakeSwap attract many users and transactions, particularly with the MERL token of Merlin Chain, which recorded a trading volume of over $409 million in just 24 hours, according to CoinGecko. Trading volume on PancakeSwap accounts for 59%. Merlin Chain’s trading volume. Source: CoinGecko CAKE Price: A Journey Contrasting with the Platform’s Achievements Despite PancakeSwap’s remarkable achievements, the price of its native token, CAKE, paints a less interesting picture. According to CoinGecko data, CAKE’s price dropped 9% in the past 24 hours, while only rising slightly by 1.6% over the last 7 days. CAKE’s price. Source: BeInCrypto Currently, CAKE is trading at $2.53, down 93.9% from its all-time high. Although CAKE’s market capitalization still ranks 114th on CoinGecko, this price decline has left many investors questioning the token’s long-term potential. However, some traders remain confident in CAKE’s long-term potential. Trader huahuayjy commented, “As long as Binance Alpha continues to thrive, cake will be discovered for its value, and all the transaction fees from Alpha’s volume will see cake take 30%. Cake will soon become the most profitable protocol,” a trader commented.
according to the official X account of Merlin Chain, Merlin Chain has completed maintenance and is back online. Previously, Merlin Chain underwent maintenance in preparation for the upcoming major update (Fork 12). Merlin Chain is a second-layer blockchain solution, and this maintenance and the launch of new trading pairs will further enhance the liquidity and functionality of its ecosystem.
Merlin Chain, a popular L2 solution for the Bitcoin ecosystem, has announced an exclusive collaboration with Hemi Network, the layer-2 chain merging the strengths of Ethereum and Bitcoin. The partnership focuses on improving the yield opportunities and liquidity within the Bitcoin ecosystem. The platform disclosed this mutual endeavor in a recent X thread. 🚀 Merlin Chain x @hemi_xyz 🚀 We're thrilled to announce a strategic collaboration between Hemi and @MerlinLayer2 to bring M-BTC to the Hemi Network! 💧By bringing M-BTC to Hemi, we’re unlocking expanded yield and liquidity opportunities for Bitcoin holders on both networks.… pic.twitter.com/benP0wv3vE — Merlin Chain (@MerlinLayer2) March 23, 2025 Merlin Chain Joins Forces with Hemi Network to Expand Yield and Liquidity for Bitcoin According to Merlin Chain, the partnership with Hemi Network takes into account the development of relatively interlinked blockchain ecosystem. In this respect, the partnership leverages the efficiencies of the Ethereum and Bitcoin ecosystems. Additionally, M-BTC’s introduction to the Hemi Network serves as a crucial move in enhancing Bitcoin’s utility and functionality within the DeFi sector. The integration between Merlin Chain and Hemi Network permits the $BTC holders to reach the comprehensive yield opportunities throughout the Hemi and Merlin Chain platforms. Hence, the collaboration efficiently expands the financial prospects of the Bitcoin holders while guaranteeing wider market liquidity and depth. M-BTC, after its deployment on the Hemi Network, will operate as a bridge connecting Bitcoin as well as he wider DeFi world. This will strengthen the consumers by offering a relatively accessible and flexible way to use $BTC holdings. Simultaneously, they can also benefit from the improved efficiency and scalability that the L2 solutions provide. The Hemi Network is supported by well-known players, such as Big Brain VC, Breyer Capital, and Binance Labs. It facilitates greater interoperability, security, and scalability between Ethereum and Bitcoin. It also unlocks unique levels of financial potential, probability, and programmability for blockchain consumers. The integration will let consumers seamlessly shift assets between diverse networks while using the cutting-edge financial tools for improved liquidity and yield. Delivering Unparalleled Scalability and Interconnectivity within Financial Landscape As per Merlin Chain, its partnership with Hemi Network denotes an important landmark in raising the role of Bitcoin within the DeFi world. Both the firms intend to deliver $BTC holders with more financial opportunities along with enabling unparalleled interactions between Ethereum and Bitcoin. As a result of this, the users can anticipate more cross-chain compatibility in the evolving blockchain sector. Overall, this partnership is an important contribution to establishing a relatively scalable, interconnected, and resilient financial landscape.
Odaily Planet Daily reports that Bitcoin Layer2 Merlin Chain has officially launched the AI assistant, Merlin Wizard 0.1 version. This integrates a comprehensive knowledge base of Merlin Chain's basic introduction, on-chain operations, ecological layout, developer guides and more. It aims to provide users with 7x24 support through natural language dialogue and knowledge base retrieval, further reducing the threshold for participation in the Bitcoin Layer2 ecosystem. It is reported that Merlin Chain aims to protect AI models and on-chain data availability by leveraging Bitcoin's decentralized characteristics through Merlin Wizard. Future versions of Merlin Wizard will continue to promote interaction between modules such as AI Agent, MCP protocol, smart contracts and on-chain data; gradually opening up functions like automated asset management driven by AI and cross-chain operations. As iterations of Merlin Wizard continue, Merlin Chain will further explore deep integration between the Bitcoin ecosystem and AI Agents; promoting large-scale adoption within the BTC ecosystem.
Merlin Chain partners with BNB Chain to introduce a cross-chain bridge, enhancing token mobility and liquidity incentives for seamless integration. BNB Chain prepares for the Pascal hard fork, boosting EVM compatibility, gasless transactions, and near-instant finality to support DeFi and AI applications. Merlin Chain has announced a cooperation with BNB Chain, which will have a significant impact on the crypto ecosystem. Through the Merlin Chain Foundation, the cooperation seeks to create a cross-chain bridge enabling more effective token transfers and offers further incentives to boost liquidity. This move is part of a greater plan to create communication among blockchain networks, not only a technological one. Merlin Chain is officially teaming up with the BNB Chain network! 🔗 You can now securely bridge $MERL and $MBTC straight from Merlin Chain to the @BNBCHAIN Mainnet. 🌉Plus, the @MerlinLayer2 Foundation will provide additional incentives to bootstrap liquidity. Get ready for… pic.twitter.com/dPrkaK0YHZ — Merlin Chain (@MerlinLayer2) March 18, 2025 Enhancing Connectivity: Merlin Chain’s New Bridge and Incentives Users of the cross-chain bridge can now effortlessly bridge MERL and MBTC tokens from Merlin Chain to BNB Chain. This implies that formerly limited resources from one ecosystem can now be exploited more creatively over a larger network. In the sector of DeFi, market expansion is more likely the more freely movable assets are present. Merlin Chain also offers further incentives to inspire users to generate liquidity. The project seeks to guarantee that users maximize the integration and that the change between the networks is seamless with financing from the Merlin Chain Foundation. New Passive Income Paths for Bitcoin Investors Merlin Chain has been presenting a staking platform since June 2024 whereby Bitcoin investors may profit via more creative DeFi prospects. Many investors who until solely saw Bitcoin as a store of value have drawn interest in this program. Now, thanks to this cooperation, consumers will probably have even more choices to maximize their holding in the BNB Chain ecosystem. Imagine if someone who has been holding Bitcoin for a long time suddenly got a new approach to generate passive income free from selling their holdings. Such a possibility is now a reality because of the combination of Merlin Chain staking and the always-expanding BNB Chain ecosystem. BNB Chain Prepares for Pascal Hard Fork and Future Upgrades Apart from offering a cross-chain link, this cooperation helps BNB Chain be ready to introduce the Pascal hard fork on March 20, 2025. According to CNF , along with better user experience and gasless transactions, this version will increase compatibility with the EVM. Moreover, in April, BNB Chain will speed up block timings; in June, the network will include near-instant transaction finality. The expanding DeFi and AI uses in the ecosystem would much benefit from these advances. Against this background, the link between Merlin Chain and BNB Chain is not only a minor addition but also part of a bigger endeavor to raise blockchain efficiency and user experience. Fighting Blockchain Threats with BNB Good Will Alliance Threats also rise as innovation keeps developing. In order to combat this, BNB Chain started the BNB Good Will Alliance, an effort meant to lower harmful activity connected to Maximum Extractable Value (MEV), including frequent sandwich attacks on many blockchain networks. As of press time, MERL is swapped hands at about $0.1295, up 5.59% over the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, BNB is trading at about $617.43, down 2.94% in the same period.
According to official sources, Merlin Chain’s PoS Prestage staking has exceeded 100 million $MERL, reflecting strong community participation and support for the project. 📌 PoS Staking Details: Users can stake $MERL through the official platform to earn rewards. The earlier the stake, the longer the reward accumulation period. For more details, visit the official staking page: merlinchain.io/stake.
Merlin Chain has announced a strategic partnership with ElizaOS to integrate AI agents into its Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) layer 2 network. This collaboration aims to enable the deployment of AI agents capable of facilitating cross-chain activities, enhancing asset discovery, and streamlining transactions. According to the announcement, developers will utilise ElizaOS’s multi-agent simulation technology to create more effective AI agents on the Merlin Chain. These AI agents will be able to issue bitcoin-native assets and initiate transactions seamlessly across both the Merlin and Bitcoin networks. The integration is expected to leverage Merlin Chain’s open-source architecture and deep liquidity, fostering innovation within the Bitcoin finance ecosystem. Over the past ten months, Merlin Chain has reportedly facilitated over $24 billion in cross-chain bitcoin assets while maintaining a total liquidity pool of $46.5 million across various decentralised exchanges. A recent report by Franklin Templeton highlights the potential of AI agents to significantly impact the crypto ecosystem due to their combination of technical innovation and market influence. The findings suggest that AI agents could play a vital role in transforming how transactions are executed in the cryptocurrency space. ElizaOS's framework allows developers to create multifunctional AI agents that can automatically perform transactions, governance tasks, and analysis within decentralised networks. Shaw, the founder of Eliza, emphasised that the focus is not solely on autonomy but on establishing social agents as a new application layer. “If we have agents sending links to verify credit cards and addresses, we can complete the entire order process on Twitter,” he stated. At the time of reporting, the Bitcoin (BTC) price was $100,984.
On January 16th, Merlin Chain, a Bitcoin layer 2 network, announced a strategic partnership with the AI Agent project ElizaOS. Through this partnership, developers can use ElizaOS's multi-agent simulation technology and RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) system to deploy AI Agents with conversation memory capabilities on Merlin Chain, enabling more efficient cross-chain transactions and asset discovery functions. Merlin Chain has facilitated over $24 billion in Bitcoin asset cross-chain transactions in the past 10 months, accumulated liquidity pools of $46.5 million in fields such as BRC20, Runes, and NFTs, and attracted over 2.4 million wallet addresses worldwide.
Author: Rhythm BlockBeats As the cryptocurrency with the strongest consensus, Bitcoin's ecosystem has seen various technological explorations and an influx of capital over the past year, driving a brief prosperity while also exposing the complex interests and potential issues behind it. There are intricate power plays among rule-makers and participants. Last week, the Bitcoin staking protocol Solv Protocol was caught in a media storm after being publicly criticized by major staker AZ and the Bitcoin ecosystem project Nubit, making controversial topics like guaranteed returns and double staking the focus of community attention. In response, BlockBeats engaged in a dialogue with AZ, who not only shared her operational logic since entering the space but also directly addressed the rumors surrounding Solv, including controversial topics like guaranteed returns and double staking. This article provides us with a unique perspective on the operations of major players in the crypto space and the functioning of project ecosystems, as well as some "dirty plays" in the Bitcoin ecosystem, such as agreement trading between project parties and major players, and gray operations in liquidity management. In this game called consensus, major players with chips are in a tug-of-war with project parties that set the rules, while ordinary investors are often forced to become powerless bystanders. Here is the complete interview content, organized for easier reading: BlockBeats: Share your experience in trading cryptocurrencies. AZ: Let me first address one very strange rumor: I’ve been accused of working at a club in Singapore, helping many big shots manage Bitcoin and acting as a white glove for them to generate profits. If I were really managing money for so many big players, how could I be allowed to speak so openly online? Either they would have solved it through various connections long ago, or they would have silenced me by now; it’s impossible for me to be so active online, right? BlockBeats: When did you enter the space, and can you briefly share your trading experience? AZ: I bought my first Bitcoin in 2017. I really didn’t trade much; at most, I used USDT to buy some meme coins or popular altcoins, but I never exchanged my Bitcoin for other coins; I just held onto it. BlockBeats: Why did you buy Bitcoin in 2017? AZ: It goes back to 2015 when I caught the first wave of social e-commerce. At that time, the cost of traffic was very low, almost free, and I made some money from it, but that ended in 2019. During that time, I often went to Europe to learn about textile craftsmanship, but due to limited foreign exchange quotas for RMB, the flow of funds was always a headache for me. In 2017, a friend of a friend gifted me a Bitcoin. I remember his surname was Fan. At that time, we were in Shanghai, and after receiving this Bitcoin, I accidentally discovered how convenient it was for capital inflow and outflow. Because of this, I seriously read the Bitcoin white paper and invested most of my profits into it, and I haven’t touched that part since. I really thank Satoshi Nakamoto for leading me to buy it. Image source: AZ's social account BlockBeats: So now you mainly earn passive income from Bitcoin, right? AZ: I also invest in some projects, but overall, I’m still quite cautious. However, I have indeed participated in many projects. BlockBeats: In your personal capacity? AZ: I have a fund, and I invest through that fund. There’s a team that helps me manage it, but it’s not very active and hasn’t been PR’d. I not only invest in projects but also in some LPs of funds. "Guaranteed Return Agreements Are Common" BlockBeats: As a major BTC holder, can you talk about your Bitcoin earning and investment strategies before and after the Bitcoin ecosystem became popular? AZ: I’m quite foolish; I don’t have any investment strategies. I just keep my Bitcoin in a cold wallet and never put it in strange places to earn returns. I’ve always been very "traditional," not active, and I don’t actively seek investment opportunities. I don’t deliberately look for projects to stake coins for returns; the risks are too high. Besides Solv, I’m also involved in some quantitative trading. Babylon also has staking, and I’ve talked to them as well. Then there are various project agreements; I’ve participated in quite a few of them. BlockBeats: What do you think of the Bitcoin ecosystem? AZ: I firmly believe that the liquidity of Bitcoin will eventually be fully released. This release is not just about price increases but also about substantial applications, such as staking Bitcoin for lending while ensuring the safety of the principal, or participating in various on-chain yields. This market is enormous and is a problem waiting to be solved. In this process, we will see many projects emerge. I can’t directly tell you which projects are good or bad because, at present, no solution has truly emerged as an industry standard. What I can say is that I am very much looking forward to this happening, but I also believe that the current solutions are not perfect enough. In the future, there will definitely be more mature and perfect solutions that will push this market further. BlockBeats: What are the ways to play in the Bitcoin ecosystem? AZ: I think my approach is definitely different from others. Those truly skilled major players play very smoothly, signing agreements, locking conditions, and then dumping coins after listing. I haven’t engaged in such operations; I just participate simply and haven’t used these so-called rules to increase my returns. That’s probably the biggest difference between me and others. BlockBeats: Does this set of plays represent a collusion between project parties and major holders? AZ: I do know some people sign agreements, but I can’t just put the agreements out there; they haven’t signed with me. Many smart major players engage in such deals. After all, where the project party's coins go is completely opaque, and once listed on Binance, so many retail investors are waiting to take over. But I can clearly say that I have never participated in such operations. If I had really signed an agreement and received money, I wouldn’t be here struggling. It’s precisely because I haven’t participated in these matters, believing that the project party would distribute fairly, and when I found the ratio severely off, I started questioning where the remaining coins of the project party went. That’s why I’m here, hoping to clarify things. From Good Friends to Rights Protection Objects: AZ's View of the Solv Founder BlockBeats: How did you get in touch with the Solv Protocol project? AZ: I’ve known the founder of Solv for quite a while. I met him when I first came to Singapore in 2022. Initially, a friend organized a party, and after that, we often gathered to hang out. In March last year, we attended a conference in Dubai, where the Merlin project team was also present. They were among the earliest teams deeply involved in the BTC ecosystem and understood the gameplay in this field very well. Solv used to follow the GMX model. During that time, we discussed Solv's transformation, primarily considering whether Solv should enter the BTC ecosystem. If they decided to pivot, we were all willing to support and encourage them to do so. I remember vividly that Solv’s official account posted many messages thanking the Merlin team for their support. Solv’s successful transformation into the BTC ecosystem and its gradual progress to being listed on Binance is closely tied to the support we provided at that time. As for why I got involved with Solv, I had already known them before they became Solv BTC. We were among those discussing and planning this direction together. Therefore, I believe that Solv's current success in the BTCFi space is partly due to my contributions. BlockBeats: Have you signed any guaranteed return agreements as a major holder? AZ: The situation is that there has never been any agreement signed between him and me. Initially, we were pushing this together, and our relationship was more like partners rather than client and service provider. So naturally, there was no guaranteed return agreement. Our verbal agreement was very simple: we would work on this together, share the profits, and doing a good job was the most important thing. Now it seems I have been completely pua’d, as there’s no sharing at all. But later, he did sign guaranteed return agreements with many major holders, so he had to dilute the interests of us early participants. After all, initially, we only had a verbal promise to work hard together and share profits, while those who joined later appeared more as clients. As the project party, to pitch these clients' money, he certainly needed to offer more attractive conditions, such as guaranteed return agreements. BlockBeats: Do other projects also have similar situations? AZ: I had never done anything like this before Solv, but after Solv, if someone comes to me for funding support today, I would be much more cautious. It’s not just about the guaranteed return agreements; more importantly, I would conduct a very thorough review of the project party’s character, integrity, and background. BlockBeats: That is indeed very necessary. AZ: We often hung out together, including going to Dubai and Korea. We would have meals, party, and even fly back together. I trusted him a lot before; I thought we were good friends. BlockBeats: Starting from March last year, what requirements or specific details did the project party have for major holders during the entire process? AZ: From day one until now, I can clearly say that all the requirements and rules were set by the project party, and I was completely following their requirements. These details can be found clearly in their tweets and on their official website. As for those who question my funding sources or say I’m manipulating TVL, I can only say that all my operations are in accordance with the project party’s rules and requirements, and every transaction is clear and can withstand scrutiny. The main requirement from the project party was very simple: they wanted me to lock the liquidity of Bitcoin for them. Initially, they told me this was a three-month project, and I only needed to lock the liquidity of Bitcoin for three months. At that time, I knew a bull market was about to come, and I originally planned to put this money into Binance for fixed income, but they strongly insisted that I lock it for them for three months first. I followed their request and provided them with Bitcoin. As a result, three months passed, and they kept dragging their feet, completely failing to fulfill their initial promise. This repeated delay not only violated the initial trust but also left me very disappointed with their operational methods. BlockBeats: During the staking period, what was the frequency of communication between you and the Solv team, and what topics did you mainly discuss? AZ: At the beginning of the staking, Ryan was very enthusiastic towards me, frequently contacting me to explain the project’s situation and keep me updated on the progress. After about two or three months of staking, they were supposed to be listed on Binance but delayed for a long time. During that time, he often invited me to dinner and outings, and whenever he treated major clients, he would always include me. On my birthday, he even came to my house to have longevity noodles and gifted me a YSL bag as a birthday present. Image source: AZ's social account Before he promised guaranteed returns to other major holders, our relationship was really very good. I even thought he was my best male friend in Singapore and someone I trusted very much. I would tell him everything, including asking for his opinion on projects I was investing in. Then Babylon launched, and I heard he started signing guaranteed return agreements with others. To fulfill these agreements, he naturally had to dilute my share of the profits. BlockBeats: When did this turning point occur? AZ: Around October, I suspect he knew he was going to be listed on Binance, and perhaps because he made many promises to others, he basically stopped replying to my messages. I don’t know if he was trying to "wash" me out, but for someone who has supported him for so long and had such a good relationship, there must be some reason for him to ignore me. I felt something was off from that time. BlockBeats: When did you find out that he had signed guaranteed return agreements with other major holders? AZ: A little while before the first phase of Babylon launched. BlockBeats: Before he contacted other major holders, what was your expected return? AZ: I never thought of myself as his client; I felt we discussed this together, and I supported you from day one. Therefore, my expectation was that no matter how much you give me, at least I should get a fair and just explanation. I was ranked first on the leaderboard for the first four months, and I was only squeezed out in the last two months. I thought it shouldn’t be just 0.05%. I wouldn’t demand a specific percentage; I just felt that no matter what, you should respond to my questions directly. The returns are no longer important; I don’t expect to keep any for myself. BlockBeats: You transferred 1800 BTC to Solv using mBTC. What was the situation when you participated in Merlin? Some say you are earning returns from multiple sources. AZ: I did use mBTC to exchange, and all the funds are very clean and compliant. If someone says I’m not clean, they can provide evidence that my SOLVBTC is fake, while the real BTC exists on Merlin. Merlin issued coins before Solv. My original plan was to take the coins from Merlin directly to Binance for fixed income, expecting an annualized return of 5% for seven months, which would be $4.75 million. It was precisely because the Solv founder told me how great their project was and that it could yield far more than fixed income that I agreed to keep it for an additional seven months. Now they say they will give me $500,000 worth of SOLV tokens, which is not even enough to cover the fixed income. So, there’s no situation of earning from multiple sources. Moreover, I think it’s normal for DeFi protocols to earn from multiple sources; I just haven’t done that. BlockBeats: So there is indeed a phenomenon of double staking, right? AZ: There is indeed a phenomenon in the market where, for example, my BTC is given to Solv, counted once for returns, and then some project parties will want this TVL and count it again for returns. Everyone is colluding, like just giving them this address. But I have never done such things; every transaction record of mine can be shown to them, and all BTC is clean; I have absolutely not engaged in such activities. BlockBeats: After you learned about your return distribution situation, did you communicate with other major holders? AZ: Yes, another major holder who supports Solv came to me and asked how the 0.05% was calculated. BlockBeats: How do you evaluate the Solv project? AZ: When looking at a project, the character of the founding team is really crucial. This project has been around for four years, constantly changing directions, and finally able to be listed on Binance. But what’s disappointing is that they chose not to share the profits with those who supported them from the beginning. BlockBeats: Why did you choose to protect your rights on Twitter? AZ: I spent nearly two months contacting everyone I could find around him—his investors, very good friends, and even anyone with any connection to him. I relayed messages hoping he would contact me. But the result was that he never replied, not even a word. In this situation, I really had no other choice. I could only choose to go online and make this matter public. BlockBeats: So far, has your rights protection on social media achieved the effect you initially wanted? AZ: If my initial goal was to get the founder to respond to me, then I indeed seem to have not achieved that, as he still ignores me, and the whole team ignores me. However, if we frame it as preventing others from being scammed by such project parties, then I think it has been achieved because I launched an AI rights protection agent. There are so many scams in blockchain projects; today it’s him, tomorrow it’s someone else, and everyone is deceiving others. So I think creating a fraud prevention agent is very necessary. BlockBeats: After a series of events in the past few days, has the other party responded to your previous demands or shown any change in attitude? AZ: We had a phone call on January 3rd. It seemed like we talked a lot, but also like we talked about nothing. He asked me how to compensate now and how much I wanted. I clearly told him that I wouldn’t ask him for a single cent. Because I have doubts about his character, I even recorded the conversation. If he spreads rumors about me outside, I can release it at any time. My exact words were: "I won’t actively ask you for a single cent. I have contributed so much to this project; it’s wrong for you to burn bridges at this time. You should propose a compensation plan, and then I will decide whether to accept it." Later, one of his investors acted as an intermediary to communicate and suggested giving me an extra 1% FDV directly from the team’s share. This investor asked me if I thought it was reasonable, and I thought it was reasonable. After all, my funds occupied 10% of your TVL for a long time, and at certain stages, it even accounted for several tens of percent. According to the 9% ratio for airdrops, giving me 1/9 of the FDV is a very normal ratio. But I also made it clear that I wouldn’t actively ask you for this return. If you genuinely want to give it to me, then we can discuss it. That’s the entirety of our conversation. He also promised to call me again the next morning, but until now, I haven’t received his call. What’s even more outrageous is that he actually spread rumors outside, saying that I asked him for $20 million. BlockBeats: How do you view the community's opinion on your token issuance? AZ: First of all, the returns from staking 1800 Bitcoin for seven months are all donated to the community. From the first day I spoke out, it has been transparent. Now I just don’t want any returns. If I’m pushed too hard, I just want to spend money to have netizens criticize them, unlike the Solv team, who operates in the shadows. Moreover, I think the AI rights protection agent is a very necessary existence, especially in the crypto space where scams are rampant. I think we should create a dedicated rights protection track to provide support for more deceived individuals. AIXBT only talks about how good the project is; it’s a project-friendly AI, so I want to create a retail-friendly AI. As for this return, I never intended to keep it; I have to find a way to give it to the netizens who helped me voice out, so I can only achieve it in this way. I also clearly told everyone that I do not encourage anyone to buy this token. Because you can earn airdrops just by completing tasks, there’s no need to buy it. I will buy it myself, and after buying it, you can sell it directly after receiving the airdrop, right? There’s no need to take on more risks. And I only have 1% of the tokens. Initially, I reserved 4%, of which 3% has already been transferred to ZachXBT, the Twitter account that inspired me to do this. I have also publicly @ed him; you can check the transfer address; all records are clear and transparent.
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