In case you missed it, @union_build has just announced some major news: They're launching their own Bitcoin liquid staking token (LST) called auBTC, making them the first cross-chain protocol to also become an asset issuer. Why this matters: Most Bitcoin LSTs today face significant limitations. They're often stuck with centralized custody, lack cross-blockchain mobility, and have limited DeFi integration. Union already facilitates the movement of Bitcoin LSTs and other assets across chains, so creating their own LST on their network was a logical next step. What makes this different: Union is not just a bridge; they're a full Layer-1 blockchain with 128 validators. This provides them with far more flexibility than other interoperability protocols. Their auBTC will seamlessly operate across Ethereum, Cosmos, and other ecosystems. Business implications: - Direct revenue stream for Union. - They become a TVL (total value locked) provider to other Layer-1s. - Establish direct relationships with liquidity providers, funds, and high-net-worth individuals. - Bitcoin treasury companies can use it for yield generation. TL'DR: Union is expanding from being merely the "pipes" that facilitate asset movement (interoperability protocol) to actually creating the assets themselves. It's a smart move that could significantly broaden their business model and revenue streams. Zkgm 0____0