Most blockchains follow the same playbook: users stake crypto assets to secure the network, and in return, they earn rewards. But there’s a catch: those staked tokens are locked up, taking liquidity out of the system. This creates a problem, especially for DeFi, where liquidity is everything.
That’s where Berachain comes in. Instead of locking tokens away, Berachain uses Proof-of-Liquidity (PoL), a system that keeps assets active while still securing the network. This means validators are staking for rewards, and they’re contributing liquidity that can be used across the ecosystem.
At the core of it all is BERA, the native gas token of Berachain. It’s what you use to pay for transactions, interact with smart contracts, and move assets around the network. Built with an Ethereum Virtual Machine-identical design, Berachain makes it easy for Ethereum developers to jump right in, with lower fees and faster speeds.
Berachain Network Features
EVM-Identical Execution
Berachain works just like Ethereum, so developers can move their apps over without changes. It supports Ethereum tools like MetaMask and Solidity, making it easy to use. Any upgrades to Ethereum can be applied to Berachain.
Proof-of-Liquidity (PoL) Consensus
Instead of locking up tokens like in staking, Berachain’s validators provide liquidity. The more liquidity they add, the more rewards they earn. This keeps assets available for trading and DeFi use instead of sitting idle.
Fast and Low-Cost Transactions
Berachain processes transactions quickly with lower fees than Ethereum. It’s designed to handle a high volume of activity while keeping costs down.
The History of Berachain
Berachain started in 2021 as an NFT project called BongBears before evolving into a full Layer-1 blockchain focused on DeFi.
- 2023: Launched its first testnet, Artio, to test network performance.
- 2024: Released a second testnet to refine features and scalability.
- Funding:
- Raised $42 million in April 2023, led by Polychain Capital.
- Secured $100 million in April 2024, backed by Framework Ventures and BH Digital.
- 2025: Mainnet launch and BERA token released on February 6.
From an NFT project to a blockchain designed to improve liquidity in DeFi, Berachain has quickly gained traction as one of the most anticipated Layer-1 networks.
BERA: The Cryptocurrency
BERA is the native gas token of Berachain. It is used to pay for transactions, interact with smart contracts, and participate in DeFi applications on the network.
How BERA Works
- Transaction Fees: Every action on Berachain, like swaps or contract executions, requires BERA to cover gas fees.
- Network Security: Validators earn BERA as rewards for providing liquidity.
- DeFi Utility: BERA is used across the Berachain ecosystem for trading, lending, and other financial activities.
Buy & Sell Berachain (BERA) at iTrustCapital
For those looking to buy and sell Berachain (BERA), platforms like iTrustCapital provide access to a tax-advantaged Crypto IRA* and a non-IRA Premium Custody Account.
*Some taxes may apply.
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