Binance Wrapped BTC (BBTC) is a wrapped form of Bitcoin that functions as an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum blockchain. It is designed to facilitate the use of Bitcoin within Ethereum’s decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. BBTC represents Bitcoin in a 1:1 ratio, allowing Bitcoin holders to utilize their assets in Ethereum’s DeFi applications while maintaining the value tied to BTC.
BBTC works by issuing an ERC-20 token on Ethereum that mirrors the value of Bitcoin. This is achieved through a process known as "wrapping," where Bitcoin is locked in a custodial entity, and a corresponding BBTC token is issued on the Ethereum network. The process ensures that every BBTC token in circulation is backed by an equivalent amount of Bitcoin held in reserve, maintaining a pegged value of 1 BBTC = 1 BTC.
The potential use cases for Binance Wrapped BTC are abundant within the DeFi space on the Ethereum network. These include:
Binance Wrapped BTC was introduced as part of Binance’s Token Canal program, which aimed to bring more interoperability between different blockchain networks by issuing wrapped tokens. BBTC, part of the first batch of BTokens introduced under this program, was launched in October 2020. This initiative allowed Bitcoin to seamlessly integrate into the Ethereum ecosystem, providing more utility and liquidity options for BTC holders.