What Is Horizen (ZEN)? A DeFi Blockchain Listing on Bittime

Guides 2026-01-20 11:19

What Is Horizen (ZEN)? A DeFi Blockchain Listing on Bittime

Bittime - Horizen (ZEN) is a privacy-based blockchain project that is now transforming into a next-generation DeFi (Decentralized Finance) platform.

After successfully migrating to the Base network, an Ethereum Layer-2 developed by Coinbase, Horizen is now introducing its new version — Horizen 2.0, a privacy-first appchain which is ready to support secure decentralized financial applications,efficient, and compliant with regulations.

With a focus on technology zero-knowledge proofs (ZKP) and trusted execution environments (TEE), Horizen wants to be a solution for privacy needs that have so far received less attention in the world.which DeFi.

Horizen Evolution: From Standalone Blockchain to Layer 3 on Base

Horizen was initially launched in 2017 without any ICO (Initial Coin Offering) and without pre-mining, making it one of the “fair launch” crypto projects like Bitcoin.

Now, with Yellow 2.0, this project is officially operational as Layer 3 (L3) on the network Base, meaning it combines the security of Ethereum, the speed of Base, and the flexibility of homegrown privacy.

With this new architecture, Horizen focuses on cross-chain integration and provides a modular privacy layer for Web3 applications. This means developers can create DeFi applications, games, and AI tools without compromising user data security.

Read also:What Is Enso (ENSO)? Ethereum Ecosystem Token Listed on Bittime

Technology Used in Horizen

1. Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKP)

ZKP is a cryptographic technology that allows users to prove something without revealing their data. In the DeFi context, this is crucial because it enables secure transactions and audits without exposing personal information.

2. Trusted Execution Environments (TEE)

TEE allows sensitive data computations to be performed in a secure environment without the risk of leakage. The combination of TEE and ZKP makes Horizen one of the most privacy-oriented blockchains in the financial sector.

3. Modular Privacy Stack

Horizen employs a modular approach, allowing privacy, security, and scalability components to be deployed separately, tailored to suit developer needs. This approach makes applications on the Horizen network more flexible and efficient.

Tokenomics: Functions and Distribution of ZEN Tokens

It is the native token of the Horizen ecosystem, now it has become a token ERC-20 on the Base network. With a total supply 21 million tokens, ZEN follows a similar deflationary model to Bitcoin — no additional minting in the future.

This token has several main functions:

Governance 

ZEN token holders can vote on proposals submitted to theYellow DAO.

Privacy Access 

Used to pay for privacy services and cross-chain transactions in Horizen-based applications.

Ecosystem Financing

A portion of the tokens is allocated to the project's sustainability fund, supporting developers who want to build applications on top of the Horizen network.

Additionally, 5 million unminted tokens are set aside to support strategic growth and future partnerships.

Read also:Anoma Long Term Price Prediction — Potential Layer-1 Token

Horizen (ZEN) Price Performance and Market Statistics

Price That's it (ZEN)currently located around$21.92, recorded an increase 34.8% in the last 24 hours And 68% in the last seven days(data as of the end of October 2025). Its market capitalization reached$384 million, with a daily trading volume of more than$410 million.

This increase was driven by the successful migration to the Base network and growing investor interest in Layer-3 tokens that combine privacy with Ethereum's scalability.

All-Time High (ATH) ZEN is $165.92in May 2021, while its lowest point was $3.26in 2019.

This means that, although still far from the peak, the token's performance is currently on a strong recovery trend.

Roadmap Horizen 2025

What Is Horizen (ZEN)? A DeFi Blockchain Listing on Bittime

Q1 2025

Horizen's new journey begins on the network Base. Through the results of the community vote in Yellow DAO, the decision to make an official migration to Base was approved.

This step marks the beginning of the transformation phase of the Horizen ecosystem towards a faster and more efficient infrastructure.

Q2 2025

At this stage, the Horizen team is focused on launchingAppchain Testnet and system development Claim token ZEN. 

In addition, updates were made toZEND deprecation extension to support a smooth transition. A comprehensive security audit was also conducted to ensure the token claim process was secure and transparent.

Q3 2025

Phasemainnet migration and launchbecome the main focus. TokenIT WASwill completely move to the Base network, whileZEND And EONofficially discontinued.

Along with it, Horizen L3 Testnet will be introduced. The first few projects will also receive funding from Horizen x Thrive Ecosystem Fund, driving innovation within this new ecosystem.

Q4 2025

This is a significant moment for the Horizen community with the official launchHorizen L3 Mainnet. The first applications built on this network will start operating, followed by relaunch programs staking ZEN to support community participation.

Besides that, Horizen Labs will release a preview of their new privacy product,Confidential Privacy Product (Builder Preview), which is designed to bring advanced security and privacy features to the blockchain ecosystem.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.

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