Most people don’t realize that blockchains operate in isolation, like islands separated by vast oceans. Moving assets between them—say, from Bitcoin to Ethereum—isn’t straightforward and often requires complex workarounds. That’s the problem THORChain (RUNE) set out to solve back in 2018. Today, it enables seamless cross-chain asset swaps between major networks like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and BNB Chain, all without relying on wrapped tokens or centralized intermediaries.
Want to know all there is to know about THORChain? In this THORChain overview article, we provide you with a simple explanation of ‘what is THORChain’. You will also learn all there is to know about its native token, RUNE, and understand what makes RUNE unique. We will also go through some of the best RUNE wallets in the market today.
Our Take on THORChain Crypto Project
THORChain offers something rare in the crypto world: native cross-chain swaps. For anyone who self-custodies their assets and uses decentralized finance (DeFi) regularly, you’ll know how frustrating it is to swap tokens between incompatible chains, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, without relying on a centralized crypto exchange. For years, I’ve had to go through those centralized routes myself. Now, THORChain provides the most decentralized alternative available for making those swaps.
That said, the platform isn’t the most beginner-friendly. The unfamiliar interface and fee model can be intimidating for new users. Still, I’d argue that THORChain has found product-market fit, especially among users who value decentralization and anonymity above all else. Just ask the North Korean hackers who used it to launder funds (but more on that later).
