Deep Dive
1. Rusk Upgrade (10 November 2025)
Overview: A major upgrade to Dusk’s data settlement layer (DuskDS) optimized network speed, reduced costs, and unified data availability with settlement.
The upgrade introduced new APIs for third-party integrations and improved finality times. Node operators were required to update before the 2 November activation to ensure compatibility with DuskEVM.
What this means: This is bullish for DUSK because faster, cheaper transactions could attract more institutional DeFi projects. The upgrade directly supports Dusk’s goal of merging compliance with blockchain efficiency.
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2. Hedger Alpha Launch (6 November 2025)
Overview: Hedger enables private EVM transactions using homomorphic encryption (HE) and zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs), shielding balances and transfer amounts.
The alpha version allows users to shield/unshield ETH on Sepolia testnet. While still experimental, it demonstrates Dusk’s progress in compliant privacy—transactions remain auditable for regulators but private to others.
What this means: This is bullish for DUSK because it positions the network as a privacy solution for regulated sectors like asset tokenization, differentiating it from purely anonymous protocols.
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3. DuskEVM Mainnet Prep (November 2025)
Overview: DuskEVM, an EVM-compatible layer with built-in privacy, is nearing mainnet launch. It will host DeFi and RWA dApps, including a €200M+ securities platform with Dutch exchange NPEX.
The modular design integrates with DuskDS for settlement and DuskVM for Rust-based privacy apps. This architecture avoids fragmentation while supporting Solidity developers.
What this means: This is bullish for DUSK because EVM compatibility lowers entry barriers for developers, while regulated asset support could drive institutional adoption.
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Conclusion
Dusk’s codebase updates signal a strategic push into regulated finance, blending EVM accessibility with institutional-grade privacy. With testnet milestones achieved and mainnet nearing completion, can Dusk become the default blockchain for compliant RWAs?