THORChain Launches Version 3.20 with Monero Support

• XMR will have a progressive rollout and limited initial liquidity.
• Connectivity for Solana, Base, and BNB Chain networks is being restored and optimized.

The decentralized cross-chain exchange protocol, THORChain, is scheduled for a massive deployment of its version 3.20 on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, around 14:00 UTC (estimated block 27,580,000).

The update, described by ecosystem developers as one of the most significant in the network's history, features the native integration of the privacy-focused currency Monero (XMR) and the reactivation of the node rotation mechanism (churn), after nearly two months of suspension.

According to records from the project's official GitHub repository and explanations shared by developer BooneW, version 3.20 marks the definitive entry of the protocol into the financial privacy sector within decentralized finance (DeFi).

The main technical novelty is the implementation of swaps (exchanges) for Monero at the protocol level, without the need for identity verification procedures (KYC), blacklists, or centralized intermediaries.

However, developers warned that the integration of XMR will have a progressive rollout (soft launch).

Due to the cryptographic complexity involved in adapting Monero's FROST threshold signature technology to the THORChain signature engine, initial liquidity will be limited, and temporary pauses in the network may be recorded during the first days of operation.

After Monero, the network will also enable support for Zcash (ZEC), with full activation expected during the first week following the launch.

Version 3.20 addresses structural deficiencies in THORChain's economic model by activating the Protocol Owned Liquidity (POL) mechanism.

This tool channels a percentage of the system's revenue ---controlled through governance parameters--- to liquidity pools that require greater depth. The goal is to repair imbalances generated in the past in the protocol's incentive system and improve the execution of large-volume operations.

Additionally, the Stable Reserve function is introduced, an experimental concept that allows for direct exchanges of stable tokens without the need to use the native asset RUNE as an intermediary. This measure aims to reduce losses due to price slippage and make the protocol more competitive against other DeFi platforms dedicated to stablecoin trading.

The v3.20.0 update package also includes:

• Expansion of memo-less exchanges: allows operations with tokens under the ERC-20 standard of Ethereum without the need to connect the wallet to a web interface.
• Reactivation of Churn: establishes the continuous rotation of network validators to ensure consensus security and participation from bond providers.
• Rehabilitation of chains: restores and optimizes connectivity for networks like Solana, Base, and BNB Chain.

As reported by CriptoNoticias on June 23, THORChain's operations were halted for a month following a hack in which approximately 10 million dollars were stolen. Therefore, the new updates aim to restore services and increase the appeal and trust for users of the protocol.

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