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Thor chain v3.20 launches native swaps for xmr and zec

THORChain v3.20 | Privacy Coins Rise with Native Swaps

By

Liam O'Connor

Sep 1, 2026, 03:35 AM

Edited By

Elena Ivanova

2 minutes to read

An illustration showing native swaps for Monero and Zcash on the THORChain platform, with Bitcoin and Ethereum in the background representing major assets.

A noticeable shift is happening in the crypto world as THORChain rolls out v3.20, allowing for native swaps of privacy coins like XMR and ZEC directly into BTC and ETH. This development reflects the growing concerns surrounding the delisting of privacy coins from centralized exchanges (CEXs).

The Backstory of Privacy Coins

THORChain is addressing the growing market demand for access to privacy coins amidst decreasing support from exchanges. For many, the infrastructure upgrade is more than just a price spike; it's a necessity.

  • "If CEX access keeps getting worse, having a native route out of ZEC without wrapping it first starts solving a market access problem," a user highlighted.

  • Another chimed in, "Native liquidity into BTC and ETH solves a real access problem if CEX support keeps shrinking."

As CEXs are distancing themselves from privacy coins, the ability to natively swap ZEC for BTC or ETH could provide much-needed liquidity for traders and investors eager to capitalize on these assets.

Why This Matters

The recent upgrade by THORChain signals confidence in the privacy coin market's resilience. Given that fewer CEXs are willing to support ZEC, the on-chain solution could significantly enhance market access.

  • "Honestly, the CEX delisting angle is the whole thing for me. If fewer exchanges want to touch ZEC, being able to go straight into BTC or ETH on-chain is a pretty big deal," said a keen observer.

Implications for the Market

The introduction of native swaps could spark renewed interest in privacy coins, transforming how traders approach crypto liquidity. As the landscape shifts, we'll see if this provides a way for these coins to thrive where traditional exchanges may resist.

Key Points to Consider

  • πŸ”‘ Native swaps for privacy coins begin with this update.

  • πŸ’° Greater liquidity options may reshape trading strategies.

  • πŸ”„ Increased importance of decentralized alternatives as CEX support wanes.

THORChain's new framework presents a unique chance for the privacy coin sector. The market will be watching closely for signs of growing demand as these swaps go live.

Future Trends in Privacy Coins

There’s a solid likelihood that the introduction of native swaps will lead to a surge in activity for privacy coins like ZEC and XMR. Experts predict about a 70% increase in trading volume as traders capitalize on the newfound liquidity. As decentralized finance gains momentum, many will turn to on-chain options, reducing reliance on centralized exchanges. This trend aligns with broader movements in the crypto world towards privacy and ownership, suggesting long-term growth for privacy coin adoption across various platforms. With continued innovations, there’s a good chance we’ll see other protocols following THORChain’s lead, further enriching the marketplace.

An Unexpected Echo from the Past

Consider the rise and fall of the email encryption movement in the late 1990s. Just as privacy coins face skepticism from major trading platforms today, encrypted emails were often viewed as tools for illicit activity, drawing pushback from both corporations and regulators. Yet, in time, these technologies gained acceptance and became integral to online communication, echoing that with enough consumer demand and adaptability, privacy coins might similarly carve out a respected place in the digital finance landscape where traditional systems shy away.