{"id":"cronos-cro","title":"Cronos (CRO)","content":"**Cronos** is a [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) ecosystem that supports [decentralized finance (DeFi)](https://iq.wiki/wiki/defi), gaming, and [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) applications. It features multiple chains, including Cronos [EVM](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-virtual-machine-evm) and Cronos zkEVM. The CRO token is used for transactions and [staking](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking) within the ecosystem. [[1]](#cite-id-c537ao6fdmi)\n\n## Overview\n\nCronos is a decentralized, open-source, public [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) known for its high speed, energy efficiency, and low [transaction fees](https://iq.wiki/wiki/transaction-fee). It supports the creator economy with [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) applications like [DeFi](https://iq.wiki/wiki/defi) and GameFi and aims to serve as the foundation for an open [metaverse](https://iq.wiki/wiki/metaverse). Cronos’ ecosystem includes three chains: Cronos zkEVM (a high-performance [Layer 2](https://iq.wiki/wiki/layer-2) secured by [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum)), Cronos [EVM](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-virtual-machine-evm) (Ethereum-compatible and [Cosmos SDK](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmos)-based), and Cronos [POS](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-stake) (a [Cosmos](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmos)-based chain for payments and [NFTs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft)). Transaction fees are paid in $CRO, Cronos' native currency, or zkCRO, a yield-bearing version of CRO. [[2]](#cite-id-aox4e7f4csb)[[3]](#cite-id-de44ntvmav)\n\n### Cronos EVM\n\nThe Cronos EVM chain is built on Ethermint with the [Cosmos SDK](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmos). It supports the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol, enabling interoperability with [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum), [Cosmos](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmos), and other chains. This setup allows users to bring assets from these chains into Cronos, utilizing [smart contract](https://iq.wiki/wiki/smart-contract) protocols and the broader [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) application ecosystem. Using a [Proof of Authority (POA)](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-authority) [consensus mechanism](https://iq.wiki/wiki/consensus-mechanism) that balances decentralization with scalable, eco-friendly processing, Cronos aims for high transaction throughput, fast finality, and low fees. This approach offers a more cost-effective and carbon-neutral alternative to [Ethereum’s](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) [mainnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/mainnet), enhancing accessibility for [decentralized applications](https://iq.wiki/wiki/decentralized-application) and [smart contracts](https://iq.wiki/wiki/smart-contract). Developers have additional support through Cronos Labs, a [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) accelerator and ecosystem development fund focused on advancing [DeFi](https://iq.wiki/wiki/defi), GameFi, and Cronos’ growth. [[2]](#cite-id-aox4e7f4csb)[[3]](#cite-id-de44ntvmav)\n\n### Cronos POS\n\nOriginally called the \"Crypto.org Chain,\" Cronos [POS](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-stake) Chain is a [Cosmos SDK](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cosmos)-based [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) used primarily for $CRO [staking](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking) and powers several [Crypto.com](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocom) applications, including Crypto.com Pay. The chain is designed to support fast transactions and serves as a public blockchain, facilitating global transactions between individuals and businesses. [Transaction fees](https://iq.wiki/wiki/transaction-fee) on Cronos POS Chain are paid in CRO. Cronos POS Chain also aims to advance [cryptocurrency](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency) spending in everyday settings, addressing limitations of traditional payment systems and existing blockchains that have not delivered a secure, scalable, decentralized solution for crypto payments. [[4]](#cite-id-3lpa3ezesd9)\n\n### Cronos zkEVM\n\nIn 2024, Cronos Labs launched the Cronos zkEVM Chain public [mainnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/mainnet), a [zero-knowledge (ZK)](https://iq.wiki/wiki/zero-knowledge-proofs-zkps) [Layer-2](https://iq.wiki/wiki/layer-2) [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) developed in partnership with engineering teams from [Matter Labs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/matter-labs) ([zkSync](https://iq.wiki/wiki/zksync) team), [Crypto.com](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocom), VVS Finance, [Fulcrom Finance](https://iq.wiki/wiki/fulcrom-finance), and Veno Finance. Built using the [ZK](https://iq.wiki/wiki/zero-knowledge-proofs-zkps) Stack, Cronos zkEVM is a key step toward scalability and broader adoption within the Cronos ecosystem. [[5]](#cite-id-x6wprxt4y3h)\n\nThe key features of Cronos zkEVM include integration with the Cronos user and developer ecosystem and using zkCRO (a [liquid-staked](https://iq.wiki/wiki/liquid-staking) version of CRO) as the gas token. The network leverages a [zero-knowledge proof](https://iq.wiki/wiki/zero-knowledge-proofs-zkps) system for cost-efficient scalability on [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) security, joining other prominent [ZK](https://iq.wiki/wiki/zero-knowledge-proofs-zkps) chains in advancing Ethereum scalability. Additionally, it supports a \"triple yield\" concept within DeFi, combining yield-bearing [cryptocurrencies](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency), DeFi returns, and loyalty points alongside native account abstraction for gasless transactions. [[5]](#cite-id-x6wprxt4y3h)\n\n![image](https://ipfs.everipedia.org/ipfs/QmamgLmxxXiMgvshx3SwF2RXTdcG4ayr5vYZVsMkitFYDb)\n\n### Cronos Labs\n\nCronos Labs is the [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) startup accelerator and ecosystem development fund for Cronos, supporting the growth of [decentralized finance (DeFi)](https://iq.wiki/wiki/defi), gaming, and related applications within the Cronos ecosystem. Originally known as “Particle B”, Cronos Labs manages a $100 million fund to advance the ecosystem and foster innovation among [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) startups that leverage Cronos’ technology. [[7]](#cite-id-wjkckv9ly4)\n\n## Features\n\n### Crono Play\n\nThe Cronos Play Gaming SDK enables integration between gaming platforms and the Cronos network, allowing for enhanced player experiences. Through Cronos Play, developers can connect games to Cronos networks, incorporate in-game [NFT](https://iq.wiki/wiki/non-fungible-token-nft) functionality, and support authentication through various [crypto wallets](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency-wallet). Currently compatible with Unity, Unreal, and C++, the SDK is planned to expand to additional game engines. [[8]](#cite-id-4dpv2nsbq9t)\n\n## CRO\n\n![image](https://ipfs.everipedia.org/ipfs/QmYJcGsujS4kGS3kkvBF6nrC7fCZfCA8UprKaV56u943Vw)\n\nCronos (CRO) is the [utility token](https://iq.wiki/wiki/utility-token) of the Cronos ecosystem, used to pay fees on the Cronos [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) networks. The decentralized Cronos [POS](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-stake) network manages the CRO token, which safeguards the token supply and controls its emissions. The decentralized governance of Cronos POS manages CRO [tokenomics](https://iq.wiki/wiki/tokenomics) via governance proposals. For example, a 2023 governance proposal set up a mechanism whereby a portion of all new CRO emissions will be [burned](https://iq.wiki/wiki/token-burn) regularly.  [[9]](#cite-id-hk4fir4d1zh)[[10]](#cite-id-0hzay0ow5yqa)\n\n### zkCRO\n\nzkCRO is the native [gas](https://iq.wiki/wiki/gas) token of the Cronos zkEVM [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain), created by Veno Finance and backed by LCRO. Each zkCRO token represents CRO staked on the Cronos [POS](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-stake) chain. The zkCRO/CRO exchange rate adjusts over time to reflect [staking](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking) rewards or any slashing events on the Cronos POS chain. To obtain zkCRO, users deposit CRO on [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) via the Cronos zkEVM Bridge, receiving zkCRO as a yield-bearing token that appreciates relative to CRO through accrued [staking](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking) rewards. Deposited CRO is staked as LCRO on Cronos POS, with LCRO bridged to Cronos EVM via IBC. This setup provides immediate [liquidity](https://iq.wiki/wiki/pol-protocol-owned-liquidity), allowing users redeeming zkCRO to access LCRO without waiting through a 28-day unstaking period, with an option to sell LCRO in existing liquidity markets. Furthermore, 50% of [validator](https://iq.wiki/wiki/validator) rewards from LCRO are distributed to VNO depositors on Cronos [EVM](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-virtual-machine-evm), and LCRO includes an insurance feature against slashing penalties. [[6]](#cite-id-e1l0kt90u7h)\n\n## Partnerships\n- [Crypto.com](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocom);\n- Dora Factory;\n- Caldera;\n- [Moralis](https://iq.wiki/wiki/moralis);\n- Protofire;\n- Chainalysis;\n- Blockdaemon;\n- RockX;\n- Witnet;\n- Gelato Network;\n- [SubQuery](https://iq.wiki/wiki/subquery);\n- OmniHub;\n- Band VRF;\n- [CoinGecko](https://iq.wiki/wiki/coingecko);\n- MicroSwap;\n- Holdstation;\n- [Covalent](https://iq.wiki/wiki/covalent);\n- VIA Labs.\n\n## Cronos ETP by 21Shares\n\nIn May 2025, 21Shares introduced a new Exchange Traded Product (ETP) linked to Cronos (CRO) [cryptocurrency](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency), listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol _CROE_. The product is physically backed by CRO tokens and is structured to track the asset's market value, enabling indirect exposure to CRO via traditional financial infrastructure.\n\nThe release of the ETP occurred shortly after [Crypto.com](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocom), a key actor in the Cronos ecosystem, adjusted the classification of over 70 billion CRO tokens in April 2025. These tokens had been previously categorized as [burned](https://iq.wiki/wiki/token-burn) during earlier token operations between 2018 and 2021. Following this adjustment, Crypto.com disclosed that the tokens were maintained in reserve wallets and would remain outside the circulating supply unless a formal change was announced. The reclassification was presented as a shift in internal accounting methodology, aimed at aligning with revised asset tracking and transparency standards. On-chain data reflected the transfer of these assets to identifiable custodial addresses.\n\nThe ETP’s launch aligns with broader initiatives by 21Shares to include [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) networks that support [decentralized applications](https://iq.wiki/wiki/decentralized-application) and interoperable infrastructure within its suite of investment products. The inclusion of Cronos alongside other blockchain platforms in 21Shares’ offerings positions it within a portfolio targeting varied blockchain environments, including those associated with [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) and [Solana](https://iq.wiki/wiki/solana).\n\nThe CROE listing is intended to serve institutional and retail investors seeking regulated exposure to assets built on emerging [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) infrastructures, without direct custody of the underlying tokens. [[11]](#cite-id-7L2EEHlYNw) [[12]](#cite-id-Y1LwqBY9QA) [[13]](#cite-id-V4DfuiQNbE)\n\n## Canary Capital’s Proposed Staked CRO ETF\n\nIn May 2025, Canary Capital, an asset management firm based in the United States, submitted a filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for the creation of a spot exchange-traded fund (ETF) backed by staked Cronos (CRO), the native token of the Cronos [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) network. If approved, this product would be among the first ETFs in the United States to track the performance of [staked](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking) CRO within a regulated structure.\n\nThe proposed investment vehicle, titled the _Canary Staked CRO ETF_, is designed to track the market price of CRO in combination with [staking](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking) rewards accrued through on-chain participation. The filing outlines a mechanism by which the fund would utilize third-party custodians to hold CRO tokens while participating in the network’s staking protocol to generate yield. These staking returns would be included in the ETF’s valuation, less management and operational fees.\n\nThe ETF is expected to be listed on the Cboe BZX Exchange, pending regulatory approval, with Canary Capital overseeing fund administration and compliance. According to available documents, the structure mirrors emerging frameworks used in other digital asset-based ETFs, particularly those tied to [proof-of-stake](https://iq.wiki/wiki/proof-of-stake) tokens.\n\nFollowing the public disclosure of the filing, trading activity around CRO increased. On May 31, 2025, the token recorded higher volumes and price movement, which some market observers linked to the ETF announcement. However, the broader context included declining conditions across the cryptocurrency sector during the same period.\n\nThe filing aligns with a broader trend among asset managers seeking to develop investment products that combine token exposure with protocol-level yield mechanisms. Similar proposals have been observed for staking-enabled assets such as [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) (ETH) and [Solana](https://iq.wiki/wiki/solana) (SOL), as the asset management industry continues to explore [cryptocurrency](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency)-linked instruments.\n\nAs of the time of writing, the SEC has not provided a timeline or decision regarding the proposed ETF. The outcome of this application may influence future regulatory considerations for [staking](https://iq.wiki/wiki/staking)-based ETF models in the U.S. financial market. [[14]](#cite-id-fdyKNHpyzc) [[15]](#cite-id-gGrxOEQJBy) [[16]](#cite-id-1fLWua2pX9) [[17]](#cite-id-sNv38C4MWp)","summary":"Cronos is a blockchain ecosystem supporting DeFi, gaming, and Web3 applications with multiple chains (EVM, zkEVM, POS) for speed, efficiency, and low fees. 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Canary Capital Files for US Cronos Fund as Altcoin Interest Intensifies\\n\",\"timestamp\":1748827467782,\"url\":\"https://decrypt.co/323041/canary-capital-files-us-cronos-etf\"},{\"id\":\"gGrxOEQJBy\",\"description\":\"Canary Capital files S-1 for staked Cronos ETF as SEC softens stance on staking\\n\",\"timestamp\":1748827479798,\"url\":\"https://dailyhodl.com/2025/05/31/cronos-defies-crypto-market-downtick-on-friday-as-asset-manager-canary-capital-files-for-cro-etf/\"},{\"id\":\"1fLWua2pX9\",\"description\":\"Cronos Staking ETF: Canary Capital Targets High-Yield Crypto Access\\n\",\"timestamp\":1748827492831,\"url\":\"https://www.tronweekly.com/canary-capital-files-for-a-cronos-staking-etf/\"},{\"id\":\"sNv38C4MWp\",\"description\":\"Cronos Defies Crypto Market Downtick on Friday As Asset Manager Canary Capital Files for CRO ETF\\n\",\"timestamp\":1748827512865,\"url\":\"https://dailyhodl.com/2025/05/31/cronos-defies-crypto-market-downtick-on-friday-as-asset-manager-canary-capital-files-for-cro-etf/\"}]"},{"id":"website","value":"https://cronos.org/"},{"id":"instagram_profile","value":"https://www.instagram.com/cryptocomofficial/"},{"id":"twitter_profile","value":"https://twitter.com/cronos_chain"},{"id":"discord_profile","value":"https://discord.com/invite/pahqHz26q4"},{"id":"telegram_profile","value":"https://t.me/Cronos_Announcements"},{"id":"coinmarketcap_url","value":"https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/cronos/"},{"id":"coingecko_profile","value":"https://www.coingecko.com/en/coins/cronos"},{"id":"youtube_profile","value":"https://www.youtube.com/@cronos_chain"},{"id":"github_profile","value":"https://github.com/crypto-org-chain"},{"id":"etherscan","value":"https://etherscan.io/token/0xa0b73e1ff0b80914ab6fe0444e65848c4c34450b"},{"id":"contract_url","value":"https://etherscan.io/token/0xa0b73e1ff0b80914ab6fe0444e65848c4c34450b"},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"QmXhnpC57rSqjQhA7GdNFf2zXCvVfTLFysjbz58mTCZLCz"},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"QmXhnpC57rSqjQhA7GdNFf2zXCvVfTLFysjbz58mTCZLCz"},{"id":"commit-message","value":""},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"QmXhnpC57rSqjQhA7GdNFf2zXCvVfTLFysjbz58mTCZLCz"}],"events":[{"id":"816209ba-7215-42c1-ad90-bdf7ea764a33","date":"2021-11-01","title":"Date Founded","type":"CREATED","description":"Cronos Chain’s mainnet beta was launched on November 8th 2021","link":"https://cronos.org/","multiDateStart":null,"multiDateEnd":null,"continent":null,"country":null}],"user":{"id":"0x7ecCabb7c748BCfa8556C8B31e85a11827D0450e"},"author":{"id":"0xa817e9da10923C49C3eD3265Ec9aAb4FB2AF69FE"},"language":"en","version":1,"linkedWikis":{"blockchains":["cronos-cro"],"founders":["gary-or"],"speakers":[]}}