BRC2.0 embeds Ethereum Virtual Machine functionality into the BRC-20 indexer, enabling Bitcoin-native smart contracts and DeFi without bridges. This upgrade lets developers deploy EVM-style dApps on Bitcoin, bringing composability and interoperability to BRC-20 tokens.
-
BRC2.0 adds EVM to BRC-20 indexers
-
Developers can deploy Ethereum-style smart contracts directly on Bitcoin-native tokens.
-
Since 2023 BRC-20 has seen over $3 billion traded; recent six-month on-chain volume: 5,636 BTC (approx. US$633M).
Meta description: BRC2.0 brings BRC-20 EVM support to Bitcoin, unlocking native smart contracts and DeFi. Read how developers can build dApps on Bitcoin—learn next steps.
|
Author: COINOTAG
What is BRC2.0 and how does it add EVM support to BRC-20?
BRC2.0 is an upgrade to the BRC-20 indexer that embeds Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) functionality directly into the protocol layer. The upgrade makes BRC-20 tokens programmable, enabling native smart contracts and dApps on Bitcoin while remaining EVM-compatible for tooling and interoperability.
How does BRC2.0 change Bitcoin-native tokens?
BRC2.0 converts indexers from read-only calculators into a Turing-complete execution layer, allowing developers to write and deploy Solidity-style contracts for BRC-20 assets. The change eliminates the need for cross-chain bridges or wrapped assets to achieve composability, enabling direct interaction with EVM-compatible chains and scaling layers.
Key data and context
Since early 2023 BRC-20 has recorded over $3 billion in traded value, reaching 5,636 BTC (approx. US$633M) in on-chain volume over the last six months. This outpaces competing meta-protocol activity during the same period and underscores developer and trader interest in Bitcoin-native fungible tokens.
| Protocol | Volume (BTC) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| BRC-20 | 5,636 | ~US$633,000,000 |
| Runes | ~2,500 | ~US$280,000,000 |
| Ordinals inscriptions | ~1,200 | ~US$135,000,000 |
Who built BRC2.0 and what are their goals?
The upgrade was developed by Best In Slot in collaboration with BRC-20’s pseudonymous creator Domo and the Layer 1 Foundation. Best In Slot’s CEO Eril Binari Ezerel described the work as upgrading indexers to full EVM capability. The stated aim is to bring Ethereum-style composability and richer dApp ecosystems to Bitcoin-native tokens.
How will BRC2.0 affect the market and DeFi on Bitcoin?
Experts quoted in reporting suggest programmability will diversify use cases beyond meme coins and speculative trading. Asher Corson, CIO of Unbroken Chain, notes that programmability and DeFi primitives could rotate liquidity into inscriptions and fuel renewed investor interest. The upgrade positions BRC-20 to support automated market makers, lending, and composable token interactions.
How can developers build on BRC2.0?
Developers will use standard EVM tooling adapted to BRC2.0-compatible indexers. Solidity contracts can be compiled and deployed to BRC2.0-enabled indexers, leveraging familiar wallets and developer frameworks while benefiting from Bitcoin’s security model.
Frequently Asked Questions
How secure are smart contracts on BRC2.0 compared to Ethereum?
BRC2.0 leverages Bitcoin’s settlement and security assumptions while providing EVM execution at the indexer layer. Security depends on indexer implementation, audits, and governance. Projects should pursue audits and conservative permissioning when deploying production contracts.
Will BRC2.0 replace Runes or Ordinals?
BRC2.0 does not replace Runes or Ordinals. Runes remains non-programmable; BRC2.0 targets programmable tokens. Each meta-protocol will likely serve different market niches and use cases.
Key Takeaways
- BRC2.0 enables EVM on Bitcoin: Indexers now support Turing-complete execution for BRC-20 tokens.
- Native composability: Developers can build dApps without bridges, leveraging Bitcoin security and EVM tooling.
- Market impact: BRC-20’s large traded value and recent volumes indicate strong potential for DeFi and broader adoption.
Conclusion
BRC2.0 represents a significant step toward programmable Bitcoin-native assets by embedding EVM semantics into the BRC-20 indexer. The upgrade promises native composability, easier developer onboarding through familiar tooling, and new DeFi opportunities secured by Bitcoin. Watch for audited implementations and early dApp launches as the ecosystem evolves.
