Bitcoin needs real DeFi: This is how RIF and Rootstock are changing the rules

Bitcoin is not just a coin—it's a platform

For years, Bitcoin was confined to its role as a digital coin, but Rootstock decided to break this limitation. This second layer of Bitcoin not only offers speed enhancements—but transforms Bitcoin into a full DeFi platform while maintaining the core security of Bitcoin.

The difference between it and the Lightning Network? Simple: Lightning is designed for fast payments, while Rootstock is a financial infrastructure that allows developers to build lending protocols, decentralized trading platforms, and even stable coins—all of which are on Bitcoin.

And here comes the role of Amazigh sign: Rootstock is secured by more than 80% of the mining power on Bitcoin itself. What does that mean? Every transaction on Rootstock benefits from the same level of security that protects Bitcoin—and this is not a coincidence, but smart design.

rBTC: The Bitcoin that operates on Rootstock

rBTC is the bridge connecting the world of Bitcoin and the world of DeFi. At a 1:1 ratio with Bitcoin, anyone can lock their BTC coins through PoWPeg ( a secure and open bridge ) and convert them into rBTC to operate within the ecosystem.

The result? Bitcoin holders are no longer forced to sell. They can now:

  • Lending their coins and earning returns through LayerBank
  • Providing liquidity on DEXs like Uniswap and SushiSwap
  • Participating in advanced DeFi products

As of March 2025, more than 2,500 BTC have been locked on Rootstock—a figure that reflects real growth in user trust.

RIF: The token that manages the entire ecosystem

RIF ( is the infrastructure token for Rootstock), not just another coin—it's the engine of the entire ecosystem. Designed to accelerate DeFi adoption on Bitcoin through incentives, infrastructure, and interoperability.

When storing RIF, it converts to stRIF, opening the door to:

  • Governance Voting: Control the Future of Rootstock
  • Earn Rewards: Returns in Bitcoin and RIF directly
  • Participating in Projects: Supporting Developer Initiatives

Live data:

  • Current price: $0.03
  • 24 hour change: -2.39%
  • Change over 7 days: -8.60%
  • 30-day change: -14.95%
  • 24-hour trading volume: $17.49K
  • Market Cap: $31.36M
  • Circulating and Total Supply: 1 billion RIF

RootstockCollective: Decentralized Governance in Action

DAO RootstockCollective is the turning point. There is no central team controlling Rootstock—rather, the community itself makes decisions through stRIF holders.

This DAO manages the Collective Rewards program that incentivizes:

  • Creators: on building new DeFi applications and integrations
  • Contributors: to support promising projects and gain returns from their success

What can be built on Rootstock? Everything

Thanks to Rootstock's compatibility with the EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine), developers can move their smart contracts from Ethereum and BNB Chain directly—without rewriting the codes.

The ecosystem is growing rapidly:

  • Decentralized trading platforms: SushiSwap and Uniswap are already operational.
  • Lending and Borrowing: LayerBank offers returns on rBTC
  • Cross-chain bridges: LiFi and StarGate connect Rootstock to the rest of the world
  • Stablecoins: USDRIF provides censorship-resistant stability
  • Decentralized Identity: RNS transforms complex wallet addresses into user names

When did this story begin?

The roots are deep: The first white paper for Rootstock was published in 2015, and the network officially launched in 2018. Today, what was a dream in white papers has become a real reality working on Bitcoin.

Do you need a private wallet?

No. RIF and rBTC are compatible with popular wallets:

  • MetaMask
  • Ledger
  • Trezor

This means easy access without complications.

Why is now the right time?

Bitcoin is no longer just a store of value. With Rootstock and RIF, it has become a true foundation for a fully integrated decentralized financial system.

Developers now have:

  • ✓ A secure and EVM-compatible layer
  • ✓ Clear incentives for building through RootstockCollective
  • ✓ Real liquidity from Bitcoin holders
  • ✓ Compatible with the best DeFi tools available

Whether you are a developer looking to build a new application, an investor searching for opportunities, or a Bitcoin holder wanting returns without selling—opportunities are now unlimited on Rootstock.

RIF2.88%
BTC1.55%
View Original
This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.
  • Reward
  • Comment
  • Repost
  • Share
Comment
0/400
No comments
  • Pin

Trade Crypto Anywhere Anytime
qrCode
Scan to download Gate App
Community
  • 简体中文
  • English
  • Tiếng Việt
  • 繁體中文
  • Español
  • Русский
  • Français (Afrique)
  • Português (Portugal)
  • Bahasa Indonesia
  • 日本語
  • بالعربية
  • Українська
  • Português (Brasil)