Introduction to Bridging Assets Between Blockchain Networks

What you’ll learn?

  1. Ethereum, Bitcoin, Arbitrum, and Optimism are different layer 1 and layer 2 blockchain networks. Bridging allows shifting assets between them.
  2. There are trusted bridges (more centralized) and trustless bridges (more decentralized). The goal is to minimize trust required.
  3. Key stats are provided on total value locked (TVL) in different chains, bridge transaction volume, and leading bridging services.
  4. Several popular bridging solutions are discussed in depth, including:
    • Rocket X Protocol – allows bridging between Ethereum and Bitcoin, Polygon, Base, Cosmos etc. Some challenges noted.
    • Portal Token – established solution tied to Wormhole for bridging e.g. Base to Solana
    • Aptos Bridge – for bridging assets to the Aptos blockchain
    • Synapse Protocol – popular but with some temporary pauses in service
    • Symbiosis Finance – growing solution with significant backers
    • Connext – aiming for trust-minimized bridging using liquidity pools
    • Layer Swap – enables bridging with ZK rollups like zkSync and StarkNet
  5. Risks of bridging to consider include smart contract risk, counterparty risk, transitory risk, censorship risk, and custodial risk. Caution is advised.

Content Chapters

00:01 – Introduction to layer 1 and layer 2 blockchain networks
00:48 – The importance of bridging assets between blockchains
01:52 – Overview of leading layer 2 EVM-based blockchains
03:21 – Understanding the basics of bridging: trusted vs. trustless bridges
04:32 – Bridge inflows by chain and popular bridging solutions
05:51 – Using Rocket X Protocol for bridging assets
08:37 – Portal Token and bridging from Base to Solana
10:40 – Synapse Protocol and its bridging capabilities
11:24 – StealthX for atomic and non-atomic swaps
11:57 – Aptos Bridge for transferring assets to the Aptos blockchain
13:03 – Symbiosis Finance as a fast-growing bridge routing system
13:54 – Celer Network Bridge and its trust-minimized approach
14:24 – Connext as a glimpse into the future of trust-minimized bridging
15:20 – Other bridging options: O Portal, ChainSwap, and Layer Swap
15:59 – Rubic Exchange and its significant investors and backers
16:18 – Simple Swap and Allbridge as established market leaders
16:26 – Dchain Chain Bridge for bridging to layer 3 chains on Base
16:43 – Conclusion and the importance of understanding bridging risks