Ultraman AI Launches on Abstract Chain Blockchain

ZKsync has introduced **Airbender**, an open source RISC-V prover designed for speed and efficiency. **Key features:** - Generates block proofs in seconds - Costs a fraction of a cent per proof - Runs efficiently on commodity hardware - Built specifically for scaling zkRollup operations The prover aims to make zero-knowledge proof generation more accessible and cost-effective for Layer 2 scaling solutions. [Learn more about Airbender](https://www.zksync.io/airbender)

**APR Update** Linea's target APR rate is increasing to **10% next week**, marking the final rate increase for Season 1. **Key Details:** - The 10% APR represents the maximum rate cap for the remainder of Season 1 - Daily adjustments will continue to keep the displayed rate on target as participation fluctuates - This follows a gradual increase strategy that began at 5% APR in early March The rate adjustments are designed to respond to changing participation levels while maintaining the target APR.

**ZKsync representative @gluk64 will speak at the Digital Chamber's DC Blockchain Summit on March 18.** - **Topic**: The role of tokenized deposits in next-generation financial markets - **Focus**: Bridging policy and banking infrastructure - **Time**: 1:35 PM - **Location**: Washington, D.C. The presentation addresses privacy, compliance, and institutional adoption in the evolving landscape of digital finance.

**The shift to instant settlement is reshaping finance.** Stablecoins have already begun transforming payment systems, and tokenized deposits are positioned to be the next major development. **Key developments:** - Tokenized deposits will allow institutions to issue regulated digital money - These digital assets can move in real time across markets and international borders - Industry experts predict tokenized deposits could become the fastest growing onchain asset class **Why this matters for banks:** Tokenized deposits offer financial institutions a way to remain competitive in the evolving digital assets economy. Unlike stablecoins, which operate outside traditional banking systems, tokenized deposits enable banks to issue their own regulated digital currency while maintaining compliance frameworks. **The broader context:** This development follows the success of stablecoins as onchain settlement tokens. The technology represents a move toward more efficient, integrated financial infrastructure that can operate 24/7 without the delays of traditional settlement systems. Institutions are beginning to recognize that real-time settlement capabilities will be essential for competing in digital finance.

**Institutional-Grade Security Through Zero-Knowledge Technology** Financial institutions are demanding protocol-level security that protects against invalid transactions, according to Ozhar, VP of Business Development, speaking on a recent panel. **Key Requirements:** - Banks require rigorous security verification at the protocol level - ZK technology provides both privacy and execution integrity - Institutions prioritize math, audits, and track records over narratives **Compliance-First Approach:** The latest ZK implementations include verification hooks that enable: - Private transactions with maintained audit trails - Protection of trade strategies and prevention of front-running - Compliance department approval through transparent verification This cryptography-first approach has been battle-tested at scale, offering privacy without compromising security—addressing the core concerns of institutional capital entering the crypto space.