Zero Blockchain: A New Way to Run the World’s Markets

LayerZero Labs has rolled out Zero, a fresh blockchain that promises to solve the speed and scale problems that have stuck traditional crypto networks for years. The project pulls together big names from finance and tech, such as Citadel Securities, the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), Google Cloud, and Intercontinental Exchange. Instead of forcing every computer in the network to copy all transactions, Zero uses a clever mix of zero‑knowledge proofs and a new “Jolt” system to split execution from verification. This lets the chain handle up to two million transactions per second, far outpacing Ethereum and Solana. The design is called “heterogeneous” because it mixes different types of nodes that only need to do the work they’re good at. That cuts down on the heavy lifting that usually limits blockchains to a few thousand transactions per second. Citadel Securities is helping shape how Zero could fit into trading, clearing and settlement systems that need lightning‑fast performance. The firm also bought some of Zero’s native token, ZRO, to back the technology financially.DTCC is looking at how Zero can boost its tokenization services and collateral apps, hoping to make securities trading faster and more secure. The company sees the new chain as a way to unlock tokenized assets that move quickly and safely across markets. Intercontinental Exchange, which runs the New York Stock Exchange and other major derivatives exchanges, is testing Zero for 24/7 trading and tokenized collateral. Their goal is to see if the high‑speed chain can support round‑the‑clock markets and new types of trading. ARK Invest has joined the advisory board and bought equity in LayerZero, showing confidence that Zero could become a key player in finance. Google Cloud is partnering to explore how artificial‑intelligence agents could use Zero for instant micro‑payments and resource trades without a bank account. The idea is to merge cloud computing power with blockchain’s programmable money. Zero will open its doors to anyone who wants to validate, build or transact on it in the fall of 2026. Three “zones” will launch first: a general‑purpose Ethereum‑compatible zone, a privacy‑focused payment zone, and a top‑tier trading zone that could serve all asset classes. The network’s token, ZRO, will link these zones and connect to over 165 other blockchains, creating a web of interoperable markets.