What is Core (CORE)?

By CMC AI
08 September 2025 09:22PM (UTC+0)

TLDR

Core (CORE) is an Ethereum-compatible Layer 1 blockchain that merges Bitcoin’s security with smart contract functionality to expand Bitcoin’s utility in decentralized finance (DeFi).

  1. Hybrid consensus – Combines Bitcoin’s mining power with delegated Proof-of-Stake for scalability and security.

  2. Bitcoin-aligned DeFi – Enables Bitcoin staking and yield generation via non-custodial protocols.

  3. Developer incentives – Protocol-level revenue sharing (Rev+) rewards builders and stablecoin issuers.

Deep Dive

1. Technology: Satoshi Plus Consensus

Core’s Satoshi Plus consensus (CoinMarketCap) blends Bitcoin’s Proof-of-Work (PoW) with delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS). Bitcoin miners contribute hash power, while CORE token holders delegate stakes to validators. This hybrid model aims to solve the blockchain trilemma by balancing decentralization, scalability, and security. The network is EVM-compatible, allowing Ethereum developers to deploy dApps seamlessly.

2. Purpose: Bitcoin’s Utility Layer

Core positions itself as “the second asset Bitcoiners care about” by enabling BTC to earn yield without custodial risk. Users can timelock BTC directly on Bitcoin’s blockchain to secure Core’s network and earn rewards in CORE (Ledger integration). Innovations like lstBTC (liquid staked Bitcoin) and partnerships with custodians like BitGo aim to attract institutional capital into Bitcoin-native DeFi.

3. Ecosystem Growth: Rev+ and Incentives

The Rev+ protocol (Cointelegraph) allocates gas fees to stablecoin issuers and developers based on usage metrics (e.g., transaction volume). This creates sustainable revenue streams, reducing reliance on token inflation. Core also runs ambassador programs and accelerator initiatives to expand its developer base, targeting Bitcoin-focused DeFi applications.

Conclusion

Core is a bridge between Bitcoin’s security and Ethereum’s programmability, designed to unlock Bitcoin’s dormant value through staking, yield, and institutional-grade infrastructure. Its hybrid consensus and economic models aim to align incentives across miners, stakers, and developers.

How might Core’s integration of Bitcoin mining hash power reshape the economics of both Bitcoin and DeFi ecosystems?

CMC AI can make mistakes. Not financial advice.