Interchains | October Cardano R&D Session

This Cardano R&D Session explores Interchains—the research and engineering effort transforming Cardano into a seamlessly connected, multi-chain ecosystem. As blockchains mature, the ability to move assets, data, and computation across networks securely has become essential. The session highlights the architectural foundations and economic incentives required for Cardano to enable trust-minimized interoperability without sacrificing its core principles of decentralization and security.

Featuring insights from leading researchers and ecosystem builders, the discussion showcases Cardinal, a trust-minimized Bitcoin–Cardano bridge; examines the tokenomics and system incentives needed for partner chains to thrive; and outlines how privacy, liquidity, and specialized computation can be shared across networks rather than siloed. Interchains positions Cardano not as a single chain, but as an interoperability hub capable of supporting sovereign partner chains, DeFi platforms, and cross-chain applications.

With tribalism fading and real demand emerging for multi-chain coordination, Interchains marks a pivotal step toward a future where blockchains collaborate, liquidity flows freely, and users benefit from services across ecosystems—while Cardano remains a secure, research-driven anchor in a connected world.

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IOR & Interchains Introduction: 00:00:00 - 00:07:00
Bitcoin DeFi: 00:07:00 - 00:13:45
Airdrop Games: 00:12:45 - 00:21:15
Native Interchain Infrastructure: 00:21:15 - 00:44:40
Real World Demand & Shared Liquidity: 00:44:40 - 01:14:30
Wrap up: 01:14:30 - 01:18:27