{"id":"pharos-network","title":"Pharos Network","content":"**Pharos Network** is a [Layer-1 blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/layer-1) focused on creating a high-performance financial infrastructure that integrates institutional finance with decentralized technologies. The project positions itself as a platform for \"RealFi\" (Real Finance), emphasizing the tokenization of real-world assets (RWA), compliant financial products, and broad accessibility. The network claims to be the \"Fastest EVM Layer-1,\" designed to support both institutional and retail adoption at a large scale. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n## Overview\n\nPharos Network was established to address challenges that it identifies as barriers to the mainstream adoption of [crypto](https://iq.wiki/wiki/cryptocurrency) and digital assets, including fragmented liquidity, isolated user experiences across different blockchain ecosystems, undeveloped secondary markets for tokenized assets, and persistent interoperability issues. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa) The project's stated mission is to build an \"Inclusive Financial Layer 1 for RealFi, where real value and institutional grade assets are accessible to all.\" [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\nThe core concept of \"RealFi\" as defined by Pharos revolves around real users, real liquidity, real revenue, and real builders. The network aims to unify traditional Web2 financial systems with [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) decentralized finance, creating what it describes as a \"borderless digital financial city.\" This environment is designed for tokenized assets, stablecoins, and various market participants to interact. To achieve this, Pharos is building \"composable, cross-ecosystem pathways\" to facilitate access to institutional-grade assets. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\nThe project was founded by individuals described as former leadership from Ant Group and is backed by venture capital firms [Hack VC](https://iq.wiki/wiki/hack-vc) and Faction VC. As of January 2026, Pharos Network is live on a public testnet. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa) In a January 2026 interview, the network's CEO identified key industry challenges, stating, “\\[F]ragmented liquidity, weak secondary markets, and unresolved interoperability still block mainstream adoption.” [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n## History\n\nThe official X account for Pharos Network was created in April 2024. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa) The copyright notice on the project's website indicates public-facing activities began around 2025. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) Prior to January 2026, the project secured $8 million in a seed funding round and launched its public testnet. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\nOn December 12, 2025, the project launched the `#RealFiwithPharos` social media campaign to engage its community in defining the \"RealFi\" concept. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa) On January 6, 2026, the network shared an interview with its co-founder and CEO, who discussed the future of real-world assets and suggested that 2026 could be a significant \"turning point\" for the RWA sector. On January 7, 2026, the Pharos community held the second episode of its \"Ecosystem Explorer Series,\" which featured an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session with the project NeuroVault. On the same day, the Pharos India regional community organized a community gaming tournament in collaboration with rcade\\_co. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n## Technology and Architecture\n\nPharos Network is built on a modular architecture designed for high performance, scalability, and regulatory compliance. Its technical stack includes a unique consensus mechanism, parallel transaction processing, and dual virtual machine support. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\n### Core Architecture and Performance\n\nThe network utilizes an `AsyncBFT` (Asynchronous Byzantine Fault Tolerance) consensus algorithm, which is intended to achieve high throughput and rapid finality. For transaction processing, it employs \"deep-parallel execution\" and \"speculative parallel execution,\" allowing it to handle multiple transactions concurrently rather than sequentially. This is complemented by a multi-stage pipelining system designed to optimize the use of CPU and I/O resources. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\nBased on this architecture, Pharos Network makes the following performance claims:\n\n* Transactions Per Second (TPS): 30,000\n* Transaction Finality: Sub-second (`< 1 second`)\n* Gas Throughput: 2 Gigagas per second\n* Scalability Target: Designed to support 1 billion concurrent users\n\nThe project's storage solution combines a \"Delta-Encoded Multi-Version Merkle Tree\" with a \"Log-Structured Versioned Page Store.\" This combination is claimed to reduce storage overhead by up to 80% compared to traditional blockchain storage models. These technical features are part of the network's design to function at internet scale. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\n### Dual VM and Special Processing Networks (SPNs)\n\nA key feature of Pharos is its dual Virtual Machine (VM) environment, which offers native support for both the [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) Virtual Machine (EVM) and WebAssembly (WASM). This allows developers to build applications using a wider range of programming languages and toolsets, including those prevalent in both [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) (like [Solidity](https://iq.wiki/wiki/solidity)) and traditional Web2 development. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\nThe network's modularity is further expressed through its Special Processing Networks (SPNs). These are described as application-specific, modular sub-networks that integrate with the Pharos mainnet. Each SPN can be configured with its own independent execution engine, a distinct set of validators, unique restaking incentives, and separate governance structures. This design allows for specialized optimization for different use cases while remaining connected to the main network's security and liquidity. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\n### x402 Protocol\n\nPharos Research, an affiliated entity, developed the [x402](https://iq.wiki/wiki/x402) protocol to facilitate automated, high-frequency microtransactions, particularly for artificial intelligence (AI) agents. The protocol leverages the HTTP 402 \"Payment Required\" status code, a standard but rarely used web code, to create a bridge between Web2 APIs and [Web3](https://iq.wiki/wiki/web3) settlement networks. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\nThe goal of [x402](https://iq.wiki/wiki/x402) is to enable machine-to-machine payments that are instant, automatic, and gasless at the millisecond level, removing the need for human intervention. A statement from the project described its potential: \"[x402](https://iq.wiki/wiki/x402) is rewriting how [AI Agents](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ai-agents) pay, automatically, instantly, and without friction. High-frequency microtransactions no longer need humans in the loop!\" The protocol is designed to support the growing economy of [AI agents](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ai-agents) and automated services that require a native payment layer. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n### Compliance and Interoperability\n\nTo cater to institutional and regulated finance, Pharos has integrated compliance-focused modules directly into its protocol layer. This includes built-in support for ZK-KYC (Zero-Knowledge Know Your Customer), which allows for identity verification while preserving user privacy, and programmable AML (Anti-Money Laundering) tools. These features are intended to help applications built on Pharos meet regulatory requirements in various jurisdictions. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\nThe network also features native support for both cross-SPN and cross-chain communication. This is designed to enable atomic execution of transactions and shared data access across different virtual machines (EVM and WASM) and between Pharos and other blockchain networks. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\n## RealFi and Use Cases\n\nPharos Network's development is centered on the concept of \"RealFi,\" which aims to tokenize and manage real-world value on-chain. The platform is positioned to support a range of applications in this domain. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\nIdentified use cases for the network include:\n\n* Tokenized Financial Products: Creating on-chain yield generation strategies and structured investment products for institutional and retail clients.\n* Instant Payments: Facilitating cross-border settlements and micropayments for businesses and individuals with sub-second confirmation times.\n* Compliant Finance: Building decentralized applications that leverage the network's native Digital ID, ZK-KYC, and programmable AML features to adhere to financial regulations.\n* Infrastructure Assets (RWA): The tokenization of real-world infrastructure assets such as energy projects, commodities, and real estate to create more transparent and liquid global markets.\n* Stablecoins: Supporting the issuance of stablecoins backed by verified real-world collateral.\n\nThe project claims to be \"Incubating a $1.5 B RWA exchange pipeline,\" indicating a focus on building an ecosystem around these use cases. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\n## Ecosystem and Partnerships\n\nThe Pharos Network ecosystem includes financial backers, strategic partners, and associated entities dedicated to its growth and research. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n### Funding and Investors\n\nPharos Network raised $8 million in a seed funding round. The round was supported by investors including [Hack VC](https://iq.wiki/wiki/hack-vc) and Faction VC, with participation from other global investors. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n### Partnerships and Associated Entities\n\nThe project lists a partnership with Ant Digital Technologies, although specific details of the collaboration are not publicly specified. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd)​\n\nSeveral entities are associated with the network:\n\n* Pharos Foundation (@Pharos\\_FDN): The foundation associated with the network's development and governance, which runs the main project's X account.\n* Pharos Research (@PharosResearch\\_): An affiliated research group responsible for publishing technical reports, including the one detailing the [x402](https://iq.wiki/wiki/x402) protocol.\n* Pharos India (@pharosindia): A regional arm focused on community building and adoption within India.\n\nThe early ecosystem includes projects building on Pharos, such as **NeuroVault**, a protocol using AI to optimize yield for stablecoins, and collaborations with gaming projects like **rcade\\_co** for community engagement events. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n## Team\n\nThe founding team of Pharos Network is described as consisting of former leadership from Ant Group, a major technology and financial services company. The co-founder and CEO of Pharos Network is publicly identified by the X handle `@wishlonger`. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​\n\n## Market Data and Adoption\n\nAs of a January 2026 analysis of its official website, Pharos Network reported several metrics related to its growth and adoption during its testnet phase. The project claimed to have reached 3 billion testnet users and 174 million wallet addresses. It also reported a community of 1.5 million followers across its social media platforms. The X account for the project had over 418,500 followers as of January 2026. These figures are based on data published by the project itself. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa)​","summary":"Pharos Network is a Layer-1 blockchain focused on 'RealFi' to bridge institutional finance and Web3. It markets itself as the 'Fastest EVM Layer-1', supporting ...","images":[{"id":"QmbTN5SdSdRipC6Mn61N1pzNMXDgJ2gfww223q6kezNozU","type":"image/jpeg, image/png"}],"categories":[{"id":"dapps","title":"Dapps"}],"tags":[{"id":"Protocols"},{"id":"Blockchains"},{"id":"Organizations"}],"media":[],"metadata":[{"id":"references","value":"[\n  {\n    \"id\": \"tk3BqQht0OHp4dsd\",\n    \"url\": \"https://pharosnetwork.xyz/\",\n    \"description\": \"Pharos Network official website\",\n    \"timestamp\": 1767795995882\n  },\n  {\n    \"id\": \"ecjHjhNz3EuTeYLa\",\n    \"url\": \"https://x.com/pharos\\\\_network\",\n    \"description\": \"Pharos Network official X account\",\n    \"timestamp\": 1767795995882\n  }\n]"},{"id":"website","value":"https://pharosnetwork.xyz/"},{"id":"twitter_profile","value":"https://x.com/pharos_network"},{"id":"discord_profile","value":"https://discord.com/invite/pharos"},{"id":"linkedin_profile","value":"https://www.linkedin.com/company/pharosnetwork/"},{"id":"references","value":"https://docs.pharosnetwork.xyz/"},{"id":"telegram_profile","value":"https://t.me/PharosNetworkOfficial"},{"id":"github_profile","value":"https://github.com/PharosNetwork"},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"\"https://ipfs.everipedia.org/ipfs/QmcFMqPQ9N8wyGzqKEJgwaUrd3H48FmoeGq8tZ7PZMKNBw\""},{"id":"commit-message","value":"\"Updated data formats and regenerated multiple IDs\""},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"QmcFMqPQ9N8wyGzqKEJgwaUrd3H48FmoeGq8tZ7PZMKNBw"}],"events":[{"id":"d6f34e76-e70a-4b64-87d2-5656d1e73dd3","date":"2025-01-01","title":"Pharos Network Established","type":"CREATED","description":"Pharos Network was established to build an inclusive financial Layer-1 for real value and institutional-grade assets, emerging publicly around 2025.","link":null,"multiDateStart":null,"multiDateEnd":null,"continent":null,"country":null},{"id":"e96fdf71-7e96-4b60-aab8-984fbf875a8c","date":"2025-11-01","title":"Raised $8M in Seed Funding","type":"DEFAULT","description":"Pharos Network raised $8 million in a seed funding round from investors including Hack VC and Faction VC to build its high-performance financial infrastructure.","link":null,"multiDateStart":null,"multiDateEnd":null,"continent":null,"country":null},{"id":"75a1f955-d228-43b8-b845-190763b9db9b","date":"2025-12-01","title":"Public Testnet Launch","type":"DEFAULT","description":"Pharos Network launched its public testnet, allowing users and developers to interact with the network and its features ahead of the mainnet release.","link":"https://testnet.pharosnetwork.xyz/","multiDateStart":null,"multiDateEnd":null,"continent":null,"country":null}],"user":{"id":"0x8af7a19a26d8fbc48defb35aefb15ec8c407f889"},"author":{"id":"0x8AF7a19a26d8FBC48dEfB35AEfb15Ec8c407f889"},"operator":{"id":"0x1E23b34d3106F0C1c74D17f2Cd0F65cdb039b138"},"language":"en","version":1,"linkedWikis":{"blockchains":["ethereum"],"founders":["anon"],"speakers":[]},"recentActivity":"{\"items\":[{\"id\":\"4ea2237f-cfdf-4707-ac92-87a136b4d1d0\",\"title\":\"Pharos Network\",\"description\":\"Pharos Network is a Layer-1 blockchain focused on 'RealFi' to bridge institutional finance and Web3. It markets itself as the 'Fastest EVM Layer-1', supporting ...\",\"timestamp\":\"2026-01-10T20:28:56.638Z\",\"category\":\"Dapps\",\"status\":{\"icon\":\"RiGlobalLine\",\"label\":\"Wiki Updated\",\"iconClassName\":\"text-green-500\"},\"user\":{\"name\":\"0x8AF7a19a26d8FBC48dEfB35AEfb15Ec8c407f889\",\"address\":\"0x1E23b34d3106F0C1c74D17f2Cd0F65cdb039b138\"},\"button\":{\"label\":\"View Summary\",\"icon\":\"RiFileTextLine\"},\"summarySections\":[{\"title\":\"Title\",\"subtitle\":\"The title was changed.\",\"variant\":\"modified\",\"changeCount\":1,\"changes\":[\"Changed title from \\\"dapps\\\" to \\\"Dapps\\\"\"]},{\"title\":\"Summary\",\"subtitle\":\"The summary text was truncated.\",\"variant\":\"modified\",\"changeCount\":1,\"changes\":[\"Updated summary text from \\\"Pharos Network is a Layer-1 blockchain focused on 'RealFi' to bridge institutional finance and Web3. It markets itself as the 'Fastest EVM Layer-1', supporting real-world asset tokenization and built-in regulatory compliance.\\\" to \\\"Pharos Network is a Layer-1 blockchain focused on 'RealFi' to bridge institutional finance and Web3. It markets itself as the 'Fastest EVM Layer-1', supporting ...\\\"\"]},{\"title\":\"Categories\",\"subtitle\":\"The order of categories was changed.\",\"variant\":\"modified\",\"changeCount\":2,\"changes\":[\"Replaced category 'Blockchains' with 'Protocols'\",\"Replaced category 'Protocols' with 'Blockchains'\"]},{\"title\":\"Images\",\"subtitle\":\"The main image ID was updated.\",\"variant\":\"modified\",\"changeCount\":1,\"changes\":[\"Changed image ID from \\\"QmUwYQH679qEezsWs3qAZKtbKYvdd9FkJ4n9HVAVJBCPvY\\\" to \\\"QmbTN5SdSdRipC6Mn61N1pzNMXDgJ2gfww223q6kezNozU\\\"\"]},{\"title\":\"Events\",\"subtitle\":\"The date format for several events was updated to be more specific.\",\"variant\":\"modified\",\"changeCount\":3,\"changes\":[\"Updated event date from \\\"2025-01\\\" to \\\"2025-01-01\\\"\",\"Updated event date from \\\"2025-11\\\" to \\\"2025-11-01\\\"\",\"Updated event date from \\\"2025-12\\\" to \\\"2025-12-01\\\"\"]},{\"title\":\"Links\",\"subtitle\":\"An empty 'speakers' link entry was removed.\",\"variant\":\"removed\",\"changeCount\":1,\"changes\":[\"Removed link entry: 'speakers'\"]},{\"title\":\"Metadata\",\"subtitle\":\"New metadata was added to the wiki.\",\"variant\":\"added\",\"changeCount\":1,\"changes\":[\"Added metadata 'wiki-score' with value '79'\"]}]}]}"}