Dusk Network $DUSK stands out in the crowded Layer-1 landscape as a public, permissionless blockchain purpose-built for regulated financial markets and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization. Launched on mainnet in January 2025 after years of development, Dusk combines zero-knowledge proofs for privacy with built-in compliance features aligned with EU regulations like MiCA, MiFID II, and the DLT Pilot Regime.At its core, Dusk enables:Native issuance, trading, and instant settlement of tokenized securities, bonds, equities, and other RWAs.
Confidential smart contracts (via the Phoenix protocol and XSC standard) that keep transaction details private while allowing selective auditability for regulators.
DuskEVM, an Ethereum-compatible environment for easier developer onboarding.
Hyperstaking with programmable logic for advanced staking mechanics.
The DUSK token powers governance, staking, fees, and as collateral in the ecosystem. Unlike many privacy coins facing scrutiny, Dusk emphasizes "privacy by default, auditability when required"—a key appeal for institutions.Key partnerships include:NPEX (a licensed Dutch regulated exchange with significant AUM) for tokenizing and trading compliant securities, with launches targeting hundreds of millions in assets.
Chainlink integration (announced January 2026) via CCIP for cross-chain interoperability, addressing liquidity fragmentation in RWAs.
Collaborations with Quantoz and others for MiCA-compliant stablecoins and custody.
As of late January 2026, DUSK trades around $0.12–$0.20 (volatile after a recent 100%+ surge and correction), with strong on-chain activity and whale accumulation signaling confidence. For investors focused on RWAs, compliant DeFi, and privacy tech bridging TradFi and crypto, Dusk offers one of the most grounded, regulation-ready infrastructures available today.