• Kraken’s Layer 2 blockchain, Ink, has launched ahead of schedule on mainnet, initially planned for early 2025.
• Ink is built on the Optimism Superchain, offering users access to DeFi applications and ecosystems across multiple protocols.
• Stage 1 decentralization, introducing permissionless fault proofs, is expected by January 2025 to improve accountability.

Kraken’s Ink Layer 2 blockchain is now live on the mainnet, arriving months ahead of its originally slated release date of early 2025. The announcement highlights a significant achievement for the company, which has been working tirelessly on the project in the background. Ink, built on the Optimism Superchain, aims to bridge the gap between users and builders in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space.

We’re excited to announce Ink is live on mainnet!

Months ahead of schedule, we’re officially launching as part of the Optimism Superchain. This is just the beginning of our journey to bridge the gap between users and builders in DeFi.

Let’s ink the future together ✍️ pic.twitter.com/WmOKNiMO06

— ink (@inkonchain) December 18, 2024

A Faster Path to DeFi Connectivity

From testnet to mainnet in record time, Ink demonstrates rapid progress, reflecting Kraken’s ambition to meet the growing demand in the DeFi markets. The ecosystem is going to pave ways for users to move seamlessly among a variety of applications within DeFi-from decentralized exchanges and lending up to liquid staking solutions.

Instead, Superchain ERC-20 tokens will move effortlessly within the Superchain ecosystem, smoothing out barriers to accessing decentralized assets and tools with greater ease. This early launch provides the bedrock for Kraken to build one of the most compelling DeFi ecosystems available.

Moving Toward Decentralization

A key feature of Ink’s future development is its transition toward Stage 1 decentralization, slated for January 2025. This phase will introduce permissionless fault proofs, enabling users to challenge invalid transactions and enhancing transparency within the ecosystem. By doing so, Kraken aims to improve accountability and offer all Ink users a more robust, community-driven experience.

Over a Dozen Partners Integrate with Kraken’s Ink Blockchain

Kraken’s decision to unveil Ink in October has already yielded impressive results. Within weeks of the announcement, Ink’s developer Discord exploded to over 100,000 members. The testnet saw millions of transactions, backed by hundreds of thousands of connected wallets.

Moreover, more than a dozen infrastructure partners have already integrated with the blockchain. Such rapid adoption underlines the enthusiasm in the developer community and is a good omen for the project as it continues to mature.

Ink is going to become one of the major DeFi players, providing the foundation for dApps while further smoothing user experiences. With their early launch and clear focuses on decentralization and scalability, Kraken’s Ink will be part of the key future of DeFi.

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