What is Core (CORE)?

By CMC AI
08 December 2025 05:12AM (UTC+0)

TLDR

Core (CORE) is a Bitcoin-aligned Layer 1 blockchain combining Bitcoin’s security with Ethereum’s programmability to power decentralized finance (DeFi) and Bitcoin-based applications.

  1. Hybrid Consensus – Merges Bitcoin’s Proof-of-Work (PoW) with delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) for scalability and security.

  2. EVM Compatibility – Supports Ethereum smart contracts and dApps while integrating Bitcoin’s mining power.

  3. Bitcoin-Centric Utility – Enables self-custodial Bitcoin staking and DeFi without bridges.

Deep Dive

1. Technology & Architecture

Core uses a Satoshi Plus consensus mechanism, which delegates Bitcoin’s mining hash power to secure its network while maintaining compatibility with Ethereum’s Virtual Machine (EVM). This hybrid design allows developers to deploy Ethereum-like dApps while leveraging Bitcoin’s robust security. The chain also supports native Bitcoin timelocks for non-custodial staking, letting users earn yield without transferring custody of their BTC (CoinMarketCap).

2. Purpose & Value Proposition

Core aims to solve the blockchain trilemma (security, scalability, decentralization) by blending Bitcoin’s decentralization with Ethereum’s flexibility. It focuses on Bitcoin DeFi (BTCfi), enabling use cases like yield generation, liquid staking, and structured products directly tied to Bitcoin. For example, its integration with Ledger allows users to stake BTC and CORE via hardware wallets, maintaining self-custody (Core DAO tweet).

3. Governance & Tokenomics

CORE tokens govern the Core DAO, which oversees protocol upgrades and ecosystem development. The token has a fixed supply of 2.1 billion, with emissions designed to incentivize network validators and Bitcoin miners. CORE also powers transaction fees, staking rewards, and governance voting, aligning incentives between Bitcoin’s security layer and Core’s DeFi ecosystem (Core DAO tweet).

Conclusion

Core positions itself as a bridge between Bitcoin’s security and Ethereum’s innovation, targeting Bitcoin holders seeking DeFi opportunities without compromising custody. How will its dual focus on Bitcoin alignment and EVM compatibility shape the future of cross-chain interoperability?

CMC AI can make mistakes. Not financial advice.