t

tBTC

active

tBTC

wrapped

Launched

2023-09-01

tBTC is a decentralized wrapped Bitcoin protocol using threshold signatures. No single entity controls the underlying BTC.

Contract Addresses

EthereumVerified
0x18084fba666a33de8bcb5d51a5d571e0e71e34b3
BaseVerified
0x236aa50979D5f3De3Bd1Eeb40E81137F22ab794b
OptimismVerified
0x1A4a9b2C7F54e17aFfBf976b223D9d8D08005628
ArbitrumVerified
0xC96F508d591d12B2D5163F1A3d4e7071f0C9DdE6

Wrapping Mechanism

Type

threshold signature

Decentralization

Level 4/5

Description

Decentralized custody using threshold cryptography across multiple independent nodes

Technical Summary

The Threshold Network uses a decentralized group of node operators who jointly control a Bitcoin wallet via threshold signatures. No single node can unilaterally move funds.

Trust Assumptions

  • Threshold cryptography security
  • Majority of nodes must be honest
  • Smart contract security on destination chains

MiCA Classification

Unresolved

tBTC's decentralized architecture via Threshold Network likely places it outside MiCA scope under Recital 22 ('where crypto-asset services are provided in a fully decentralised manner without any intermediary, they should not fall within the scope of this Regulation'). No single legal entity acts as issuer or custodian. 51-of-100 threshold signature scheme distributes custody across independent node operators. DAO governance via T token holders. Single-asset reference (BTC only) and absence of legal entity issuer further support exclusion from ART definition under Article 2.

ART Criteria Analysis

references multiple assetsNo
references single asset btcYes
stabilisation mechanismYes
decentralized issuanceYes
legal entity issuerNo
Confidence:medium
Expected Clarity:2026-H2
ESMA MiCA Guidance

Proof of Reserves

Methodology

on chain verifiable

Frequency

real_time

Limitations

  • On-chain verification requires technical expertise
  • Protocol complexity may deter some users

Custodian

Threshold Network

decentralised protocol

View Custodian Profile

Quick Links

Disclaimer

Regulatory status information is for educational purposes only. Always verify current regulations with official sources before making decisions. Not financial or legal advice.