Dusk is a Layer-1 blockchain crafted to enable the native issuance, trading, and settlement of regulated financial assets on-chain. In contrast to tokenization models that generate synthetic representations of real-world assets (RWAs), Dusk supports the direct issuance of financial instruments like securities, ensuring legal clarity, automated compliance, and immediate settlement. Introduced on January 7, 2025, the Dusk mainnet has been functioning with 100% uptime, providing a secure and scalable infrastructure for both institutional and individual users.

Dusk is the sole public Layer-1 blockchain that has received clearance from EU regulators to develop the backend infrastructure for NPEX, a licensed and regulated stock exchange located in the Netherlands. Commencing in Q2 2025, Dusk will support the tokenization of securities valued at over $300 million listed on NPEX, with expectations of further asset migration through additional institutional collaborations. This regulatory approval allows Dusk to provide a distinctive offering: assured listings for Real-World Asset (RWA) projects on a licensed stock exchange, thus bridging the divide between traditional finance and blockchain technology.

- Native Issuance: Financial instruments are directly issued on-chain, ensuring legal recognition and removing the need for intermediaries. - Instant Settlement (T+0): Transactions are settled in real-time, eliminating delays associated with traditional financial systems. - 24/7 Market Access: Unlike conventional stock exchanges with limited trading hours, Dusk facilitates continuous, around-the-clock trading. - Fractional Ownership: Assets can be divided into smaller units, thereby increasing accessibility and liquidity for a wider range of investors. - Automated Compliance: Regulatory requirements are integrated at the protocol level, decreasing administrative overhead and reducing compliance risks. - Reduced Error Rates: The native issuance architecture reduces the occurrence of failed transactions, improving operational efficiency. For additional information, please refer to Eulerpool.

Dusk utilizes a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, which is secured by validators who stake the native DUSK token. Alongside its Layer-1 protocol, Dusk is introducing an EVM-compatible Layer-2 network that is based on Optimism. In contrast to conventional Layer-2 solutions that settle on Ethereum, this network will settle directly on Dusk. This allows for seamless integration of Real World Asset (RWA) projects and DeFi applications transitioning from the Ethereum ecosystem.

Dusk is acknowledged for its foundational contributions to zero-knowledge (ZK) cryptography, having developed several widely adopted tools and protocols, including: - **PlonK**: A highly popular and secure ZK proof system, co-authored with the Ethereum Foundation. - **Poseidon**: A highly efficient ZK-friendly hashing algorithm, also co-developed with the Ethereum Foundation. - **PlonkUp**: The first proof system to integrate lookups with general arithmetization. - **Zelbet**: A post-quantum secure, ZK-friendly hashing algorithm. - **Citadel**: A ZK-based self-sovereign identity system designed for privacy-preserving compliance. Dusk has also co-authored multiple academic papers in the field of cryptography, which can be accessed on Eulerpool.

The DUSK token functions as the native currency of the network, and its use cases include the following: - Staking for network security and participation in consensus - Payment of transaction fees - Participation in governance (where applicable) - Collateralization for financial instruments

Dusk offers the essential infrastructure for the compliant issuance and trading of regulated assets on a public blockchain. With regulatory approval in the EU, real-world integration via NPEX, and substantial advancements in zero-knowledge technology, Dusk serves as a vital link between traditional finance and decentralized networks.

Dusk is a privacy-oriented blockchain protocol distinguished by its emphasis on facilitating the tokenization of real-world assets while ensuring compliance and privacy. Developed by Dusk Network B.V., headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands, this protocol is designed to cater to the needs of institutions, businesses, and individuals who require privacy and compliance in their operations. Dusk Network aims to transform the financial landscape by enabling regulated assets to be traded directly from an individual's wallet, thereby bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. Central to Dusk's innovation is its implementation of Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs), a cryptographic technique that permits the verification of information without disclosing the information itself. This technology is essential for preserving privacy within the network. The Dusk team has made significant contributions to the advancement of ZKPs, with their research culminating in the development of Piecrust, a custom-built ZKP virtual machine that is pioneering within the blockchain and privacy domains. Dusk Network offers an array of products tailored to diverse needs within the ecosystem. Among these products is Citadel, a ZKP licensing solution that facilitates compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations, making it an optimal choice for subscription-based models and other applications requiring identity verification. For businesses and institutions, Dusk provides advantages such as automated and programmable compliance, instant settlement finality, and access to unified liquidity. The network's utilization of private smart contracts offers a level of privacy that surpasses traditional banking standards. The Dusk network operates on a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, with the DUSK token serving as the backbone for network operations. Validators contribute to the network's security by staking DUSK tokens, and transactions on the network are facilitated using DUSK. The network's transactional model, Phoenix, and its consensus mechanism, the Segregated Byzantine Agreement (SBA), are designed to enhance privacy and decentralization, ensuring a secure and efficient environment for trading real-world, regulated assets. For more detailed information, visit Eulerpool.

Dusk Network utilizes a comprehensive approach to security by incorporating advanced cryptographic techniques and compliance mechanisms to maintain the integrity and privacy of transactions on its blockchain. Central to Dusk's security model are Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs), an advanced cryptographic method that enables the verification of transactions without disclosing any sensitive information about the involved parties or the transaction itself. This ensures that while transactions remain transparent and verifiable, user privacy is preserved. Furthermore, Dusk Network's distinctive consensus mechanism, known as the Segregated Byzantine Agreement (SBA), plays a vital role in securing the network. The SBA is an innovative adaptation of the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) model that features cryptographic sortition and stealth time-locked transactions. These features not only enhance privacy but also ensure that the process of selecting validators (nodes) remains fair and resistant to centralization, thereby strengthening the network's defense against attacks. The network's adherence to global regulations and local legislation further reinforces its security framework. By designing its infrastructure to be compliant with regulatory standards, Dusk Network ensures it can facilitate the trading of real-world assets on its blockchain without compromising security or privacy. Dusk Network's commitment to privacy and security is also demonstrated through its development of proprietary technologies such as the Piecrust ZKP virtual machine and the Phoenix transactional model. These innovations enable the execution of private smart contracts and the preservation of anonymity in transactions, setting new benchmarks in the blockchain space for privacy and security.

Dusk acts as a foundational layer for the advancement of financial and technological innovation, concentrating on privacy, compliance, and the seamless integration of real-world assets into the blockchain ecosystem. This privacy-focused blockchain protocol is specifically tailored to meet the requirements of regulated finance and decentralized applications that necessitate zero-knowledge proofs to ensure data privacy. Consequently, it is an optimal platform for developing a diverse range of applications, from security exchanges operating in full compliance to privacy-preserving applications on public blockchain infrastructure. The protocol's employment of Zero-Knowledge Proofs, especially through its custom-built ZKP virtual machine, Piecrust, positions Dusk at the forefront of privacy technology. This innovation enables the creation of private smart contracts and transactions that maintain user confidentiality while adhering to regulatory compliance standards. Such technology is pioneering within the blockchain realm and offers businesses and institutions the capability to automate compliance, achieve instant settlement finality, and access unified liquidity pools, all while providing a greater degree of privacy than traditional banking systems. For individual users, Dusk facilitates the trading of regulated, real-world assets with the convenience and autonomy similar to that experienced in the digital asset space. This is made possible through the Dusk network's Proof-of-Stake consensus mechanism, allowing users to participate by staking DUSK tokens. These tokens are also utilized for transaction fees, on-chain governance within the XSC ecosystem, and rewarding block producers, thus fostering a self-sustaining and secure network. The network's distinctive transaction model, Phoenix, and its Segregated Byzantine Agreement consensus mechanism, further augment privacy and security. Together with the capability to operate nodes and engage in the network's consensus mechanism, these features establish Dusk as a comprehensive solution for the future economy, where privacy, compliance, and the integration of traditional and digital assets are seamlessly realized. For more detailed financial and technical information, access Dusk's data on Eulerpool.

Dusk has reached several significant milestones that have greatly contributed to its development and growth within the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry. These milestones include the successful return of all stakes and rewards to participants, demonstrating a robust and reliable staking mechanism. The project has actively engaged its community and developers by launching rolling incentivized testnet activities, which are crucial for testing and enhancing the network's features and security. The Dusk team has expanded with the addition of two new employees, reflecting the project's growth and its commitment to bringing in fresh expertise to drive innovation. A notable achievement for Dusk was its listing on a major exchange platform, which increased its visibility and accessibility to a broader audience of investors and users. The launch of the testnet DayBreak was another key event, providing a sandbox environment for testing new features and improvements before their deployment on the mainnet. This is part of Dusk's commitment to ensuring a secure and efficient blockchain infrastructure. The project has also progressed in token migration, with updates on the BEP2 to BEP20 token migration process, facilitating a smoother transition for token holders. The announcement of the Dusk Development Fund marks a pivotal step towards supporting the ecosystem's growth and development by funding innovative projects and ideas that can enhance the network's value and utility. Upgrades to the web wallet have improved user experience, making it easier for users to manage their assets securely. One of Dusk's most notable achievements is the launch of Europe's first blockchain-powered security exchange, a groundbreaking development that demonstrates the project's leadership in bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. This aligns with Dusk's core mission to enable the trading of real-world, regulated assets on the blockchain, leveraging its privacy and compliance capabilities. The project has also been active in releasing updates on the Testnet DayLight release cycle, showcasing progress in development and a high level of community engagement with a significant number of sign-ups for the DayBreak testnet. Discussions on advanced topics such as zero-knowledge proofs, undercollateralized loans, and EU crypto regulations highlight Dusk's involvement in addressing complex challenges and contributing to the broader conversation on blockchain technology and regulation. Looking ahead, at the time of writing, Dusk's roadmap includes the launch of their mainnet in 2024, with a focus on privacy, compliance, and real-world assets. This underscores the project's ambition to create a more inclusive and secure financial ecosystem, where anyone can trade regulated assets with privacy and compliance built in.

The Dusk Network was established by a team of experts with varied expertise in blockchain technology, cryptography, and business development. The founders, Fulvio Venturelli, Emanuele Francioni, Jelle Pol, Pascal Putman, and Mels Dees, shared a collective vision to develop a blockchain platform that prioritizes privacy and compliance. This platform aims to facilitate the smooth integration of real-world assets into the digital economy.