THORChain is a layer-1 protocol that allows users to transfer cryptocurrencies between blockchains instantly. Essentially, it enables users to trade crypto assets across various blockchains in a completely decentralized way.

The THORChain project was founded in 2018 under the premise that using centralized exchanges to transfer crypto-assets between different blockchains had existing problems. Thus, THORChain’s team envisioned an independent blockchain that could bridge to external networks and thus facilitate cross-chain transfers, in a similar way to DEXs work.

At its launch, Thorchain supported assets from Bitcoin, Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, Binance Smart Chain, and Litecoin, and has continually been expanding for other tokens and assets since.

What are THORChain’s key features and how does it work?

It uses an automated market maker (AMM) model similar to that of Uniswap. THORChain’s native token RUNE acts as the base pair for swaps. Thorchain deploys an adapted lending system of Bancor’s continuous lending pools to facilitate trades. In these trades, all assets are deposited in liquidity pools shared with one other asset, which is Thorchain’s native token, RUNE. 

RUNE is swapped against other assets in all trades. For example, if a user is swapping asset A to asset B, the protocol would conduct two trades. First, it would swap asset A for RUNE, and then RUNE for B. RUNE double swapping is what allows for decentralized swapping of assets across chains non-custodial.

THORChain uses a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, which means node operators earn RUNE tokens for securing the network and validating swaps. Traders can earn a percentage of trading fees when they stake their assets and provide liquidity, thus becoming liquidity providers RUNE is a utility token used for governance, staking, bonding, rewards, and trading.

Staking RUNE also gives users votes on governance proposals.

Where can you buy RUNE?

THORChain’s native token RUNE can be bought from any of the CEXs and DEXs as listed here.