Ink is a cutting-edge Layer 2 blockchain built on Optimism's Superchain, designed specifically to bridge centralized exchanges and DeFi ecosystems. Launched in December 2024 ahead of schedule, Ink represents a major exchange-backed blockchain focused on making decentralized finance more accessible to millions of users worldwide.
Built on Optimism's open-source OP Stack technology, Ink inherits Ethereum's battle-tested security while offering dramatically improved scalability and user experience for onchain applications.
Ink Blockchain Architecture and Features
Ink operates as part of the Optimism Superchain ecosystem, a unified network of Layer 2 blockchains that share security, governance, and values. Ink is a cutting-edge Layer 2 (L2) blockchain built on Optimism's Superchain and released by Kraken, offering one-second block times from day one with plans to achieve sub-second speeds.
The blockchain leverages rollup technology to process transactions off-chain before bundling them and settling on Ethereum mainnet. This approach significantly reduces gas fees while maintaining Ethereum's robust security guarantees, making it ideal for cross-chain blockchain infrastructure and DeFi applications.
DeFi-First Approach and Institutional Backing
Unlike general-purpose Layer 2 solutions, Ink prioritizes DeFi applications with institutional-grade security standards. Kraken acts as Ink's sequencer, arranging transactions in rollups before sending them to Ethereum—a model that generated $53 million in sequencer revenue for Coinbase's Base in Q2 2024 alone.
The platform launched with over a dozen onchain applications ready for users, including DEX trading, lending protocols, and bridging solutions.
Superchain Interoperability Benefits
As part of the Optimism Superchain, Ink enables seamless asset movement across connected chains without the complications of traditional bridging. When Superchain interoperability is fully live, Ink will benefit from the ability to seamlessly interact with other OP Chains, including Base, OP Mainnet, and Unichain.
This interoperability reduces liquidity fragmentation—a common problem in multi-chain environments. Users can transfer assets efficiently using tools like the Eco Portal, which supports multiple Layer 2 networks with competitive rates and simplified interfaces.
The INK Token and Ecosystem Growth
The Ink Foundation announced plans to launch the native INK token with a permanently fixed supply of 1 billion tokens. Early users of the Aave-powered liquidity protocol will be eligible for an airdrop of INK tokens, though the foundation emphasizes utility over speculation in the token's design.
The token launch represents Ink's commitment to supporting onchain capital markets and DeFi ecosystem development, with integrated liquidity protocols powered by proven Aave technology providing additional yield opportunities for users.
Bottom Line: Kraken's Ink combines exchange-grade security with Layer 2 efficiency, offering sub-second block times and institutional backing to create a DeFi-focused blockchain that bridges traditional and decentralized finance through Superchain interoperability.