Joerg Hiller
Jul 24, 2025 01:39
Discover the innovative Bitcoin-backed assets on Sui, reshaping BTC’s role in DeFi. Explore wBTC, LBTC, xBTC, tBTC, and sBTC’s unique contributions to the ecosystem.
Bitcoin (BTC), often dubbed digital gold, is experiencing a transformation on the Sui blockchain, according to Sui Foundation. This evolution is facilitated by a lineup of Bitcoin-backed assets that aim to enhance BTC’s utility, moving it beyond a mere store of value to a programmable asset within the decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape.
wBTC: via Sui Bridge
wBTC provides a seamless transition for Ethereum users into the Sui ecosystem through Sui Bridge. This custodial bridge locks wBTC on Ethereum and mints an equivalent on Sui, secured by Sui’s validator set. This model aligns closely with Sui’s security infrastructure, offering users a reliable method to move their assets.
LBTC: BTC Liquid Staked on Babylon
Lombard’s LBTC introduces a composable environment for BTC on Sui. Users lock BTC in a multisig custody vault, minting LBTC, which is staked on Babylon. This allows users to earn rewards while maintaining liquidity, with future plans to transition to a decentralized vault system, enhancing trust minimization.
xBTC: Exchange-Native Liquidity
Issued by OKX, xBTC bridges centralized exchange liquidity with decentralized applications on Sui. It simplifies the process for OKX users by allowing direct BTC movement into Sui as a wrapped token, leveraging OKX’s custodial infrastructure for ease and efficiency.
tBTC: Built on Cryptographic Trust
tBTC, developed by Threshold Network, offers a trust-minimized approach to bringing BTC onto Sui. Utilizing threshold cryptography, it ensures no single entity controls the BTC, aligning with Bitcoin’s core values of decentralization and neutrality.
sBTC: Directly Integrated with Bitcoin Logic
sBTC, originating from the Stacks protocol, integrates with Bitcoin through Proof of Transfer. This method allows sBTC to maintain Bitcoin’s security while providing smart contract functionality, offering a unique cross-ecosystem collaboration without traditional bridging.
Comparison of BTCfi Assets on Sui
Each asset offers distinct pathways for incorporating Bitcoin into Sui, with varying models of custody and integration:
Asset | Origin | Custody Model | Key Feature |
---|---|---|---|
wBTC | Sui Bridge | Custodial | Bridged from Ethereum |
LBTC | Lombard | Multisig | Liquid staking rewards |
xBTC | OKX | Custodial | Exchange-native integration |
tBTC | Threshold Network | Distributed cryptography | Trustless custody |
sBTC | Stacks | Bitcoin Proof of Transfer | Smart contract capability |
As the Bitcoin-backed assets on Sui continue to develop, they are not only bringing Bitcoin onto the platform but are also revitalizing its role within the Web3 space, offering diverse options for users prioritizing decentralization, speed, and accessibility.
For more detailed insights, visit the Sui Foundation.
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