Badger, also known as BadgerDAO, is an open-source, decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) that enables tokenized BTC to be used as collateral for DeFi applications. It operates on the Ethereum blockchain and issues the BADGER token, which is an ERC-20 type.
Badger functions by integrating tokenized Bitcoin (WBTC or renBTC) into the DeFi ecosystem on Ethereum. It utilizes smart contracts that are regularly audited for security, and a decentralized governance structure that allows token holders to vote on proposals. The platform supports liquidity mining and operates products like the Sett Vaults and Digg to enable earning returns on Bitcoin investments and to administer pegged tokens.
Badger's primary use cases include enabling Bitcoin as collateral in DeFi applications, liquidity mining, and acting as an automated DeFi aggregator. It aims to bridge traditional finance with DeFi by facilitating institutional investments and offers staking and borrowing services. Its partnerships with entities like Fireblocks enhance its applications within the DeFi and institutional finance sectors.
Badger was founded in September 2020 by Chris Spadafora, Ameer Rosic, Albert Castellana, and Alberto Cevallos. It has reached significant milestones like launching products such as Sett Vaults and Digg, and achieving over $1 billion in total value locked (TVL). Despite a notable security incident in December 2021, the platform has continued to grow and develop, focusing on decentralized governance and DeFi integration.