OpNet enables on-chain DeFi on Bitcoin mainnet, introducing OP-20 tokens and a SlowFi staking model

OP_NET launched a platform that brings smart contracts and decentralized finance directly to the Bitcoin mainnet, enabling yield-generating protocols and on-chain contract activity without relying on external chains or tokenized BTC derivatives ^{[1] [2] [3]}.

The project introduces OP-20 tokens and staking functionality and promotes a ‘SlowFi’ architecture designed to retain liquidity inside protocols for longer periods to promote yield stability; coverage notes that every transaction finalizes on Bitcoin’s base layer and does not require sidechains, bridges or wrapped BTC, with BTC used as the sole gas asset ^{[4] [3]}.

Reporting from Decrypt and CoinDesk describes OP_NET’s technical approach as running smart contracts directly in standard Bitcoin transactions, framing the launch as an effort to address Bitcoin’s traditional limitations for decentralized finance by enabling native, on-chain yields ^{[1] [2]}.

The launch positions OP_NET as a direct attempt to unlock Bitcoin-native DeFi by keeping settlement and contract finality on the base layer; coverage to date summarizes the protocol’s claims and features but does not provide independent assessment of long-term adoption or security outcomes ^{[2] [1]}.