Quark ID Recognized as First Decentralized Identity Digital Public Good

**ZKsync has been listed as one of the first protocols on Blockworks' newly launched Transparency Alliance.** The Token Transparency Framework provides a standardized way for protocols to communicate essential information to the market. ZKsync was previously recognized as the first Layer 2 solution featured in this framework. **Key points:** - ZKsync among initial protocols joining the Transparency Alliance - Framework establishes standardized disclosure of critical protocol information - Initiative aims to bring greater transparency to the crypto market The Transparency Alliance represents an industry effort to create consistent standards for protocol disclosures and token information.

**Blockchain infrastructure is becoming accessible to traditional institutions.** Institutions are beginning to launch their own blockchain networks to participate in the digital assets economy. The emerging view is that operating a blockchain will become as straightforward as managing a website. **Key developments:** - Major financial institutions are building proprietary crypto rails - Bank of New York launched tokenized deposit products on a private blockchain for institutional investors - Blockchain is being adopted as settlement infrastructure to replace legacy systems that take days **Why this matters:** Traditional banks are moving core financial operations onto blockchain for faster settlement and reduced intermediaries. Tokenized deposits enable immutable records and programmable assets, making real-world assets easier to manage and transfer at scale. This shift signals growing institutional confidence in blockchain as fundamental financial infrastructure rather than experimental technology.

zkSync has released **Airbender**, a new prover designed specifically for institutional adoption requirements. The project continues pushing performance boundaries for zero-knowledge proofs on Ethereum. Recent benchmarks show ongoing improvements in Airbender's capabilities. **Key developments:** - New prover technology targeting institutional use cases - Performance metrics available at [ethproofs.org/blocks](https://ethproofs.org/blocks) - Part of zkSync's broader effort to advance ZK technology for Ethereum Full details: [zksync.io/airbender](https://www.zksync.io/airbender)

Across Protocol has become one of the first three teams to join OpenZeppelin's Continuous Security Program, alongside Uniswap and zkSync. **Key Points:** - The program provides AI-powered security with always-on coverage - Moves beyond traditional point-in-time audits to continuous monitoring - Aims to build trust with enterprise customers through proven security standards - Reflects DeFi's evolution toward institutional-grade security practices The initiative addresses a critical need as DeFi protocols seek broader adoption by demonstrating commitment to security as an ongoing process rather than periodic checkpoints.

ZKsync's first staking pilot season has ended, marking a significant milestone for the Layer 2 network. **Key Metrics:** - Total $ZK staked: ~350 million - New active delegation: ~200 million - Total active delegation: ~1.2 billion - Rewards distributed: 5 million $ZK - Target rate: 10.0% APR The pilot program tested staking mechanics and community participation on the zkRollup network. A comprehensive Season 1 Summary and Key Takeaways Report will be published to the forums soon, detailing performance data and lessons learned. The results will inform the design of future staking seasons as ZKsync continues building its proof-of-stake infrastructure.