Deep Dive
1. Technical Roadmap for EON 2.0 Migration (June 2026)
Overview: This update is a strategic technical proposal (ZenIP 42406) that details the plan for moving the ZEN cryptocurrency from its current mainchain to the new EON 2.0 architecture. For users, this is a blueprint for a major network upgrade that will define ZEN's future utility.
The proposal, published for a DAO vote on 18 June 2026, provides the technical framework for the transition. It moves beyond the initial migration to Base by charting the course for Horizen's evolution into an advanced, modular blockchain system focused on privacy-enabled applications.
What this means: This is bullish for ZEN because it shows the project has a clear, community-governed plan for long-term technological development. A detailed roadmap reduces uncertainty for developers and investors, signaling that the core team is executing a strategic vision to enhance ZEN's scalability and functionality.
(Horizen DAO)
2. Gobi Testnet Hardfork for Delegated Staking (June 2026)
Overview: This was a live code update on the Gobi testnet implementing ZenIP 42404, which introduces a delegated staking reward mechanism. It allows users to earn rewards by delegating their ZEN to validators via smart contracts.
The hardfork, executed in early June 2026, activated two key features: a new stake management system supporting reward distribution to delegators, and a revised algorithm that dilutes rewards from the mainchain across each epoch instead of in a weekly lump sum. This tests the economic model for the future proof-of-stake network.
What this means: This is bullish for ZEN because it paves the way for accessible, passive income for all token holders, not just those who can run complex node software. A successful, secure staking system could attract more long-term holders and increase network participation, strengthening the overall ecosystem.
(Horizen DAO)
3. Consensus & Staking Prep for Horizen 2.0 (2025)
Overview: This foundational update completed all preparation work for the consensus and staking mechanisms powering Horizen 2.0. It shifts the network from proof-of-work to a proof-of-stake-based system using the AURA (Authority-Round) consensus algorithm.
In this model, the PoS system selects "collators" to produce blocks, with protocol-level staking becoming central to securing the network and building ZEN's tokenomics. The team also finalized the code for migrating ZEN from the old mainchain to the new chain, ensuring a smooth claiming process for holders.
What this means: This is neutral-to-bullish for ZEN because it represents a major technical pivot that is now code-complete. The shift to PoS aims to make the network more energy-efficient and scalable, while integrated staking creates a new core utility for the token. The risk lies in the complexity of the upcoming mainnet activation.
(Horizen DAO)
Conclusion
Horizen's development is squarely focused on executing its Horizen 2.0 vision, with recent codebase activity finalizing the roadmap and testing new staking economics. The project is transitioning from planning to implementation, aiming to become a privacy-focused appchain within the Base ecosystem. Will the upcoming mainnet activation successfully onboard developers to its new modular architecture?