What is Namada?
Namada is a proof-of-stake Layer 1 blockchain focused on multi-asset privacy. It's designed to bring privacy to any blockchain asset through its unique Multi-Asset Shielded Pool (MASP) technology.
Key Features
🛡️ Multi-Asset Shielded Pool (MASP)
Unlike traditional privacy solutions that only work with a single asset, Namada's MASP allows you to shield any asset from any connected blockchain. This means you can:
- Shield ETH, ATOM, OSMO, and other IBC-connected assets
- Make private transactions with any supported token
- Enjoy the same level of privacy regardless of the asset
🔗 IBC Compatible
Namada is built on the Cosmos SDK and is fully IBC (Inter-Blockchain Communication) compatible. This means:
- Seamless transfers between Namada and other Cosmos chains
- Access to the entire Cosmos ecosystem
- No bridges required - native IBC security
💰 Shielded Rewards
Namada incentivizes privacy through shielded rewards:
- Earn rewards just by holding assets in the shielded pool
- The longer you shield, the more you earn
- Rewards are distributed in NAM tokens
🏛️ Decentralized Governance
Namada features a robust governance system with:
- Public Goods Funding (PGF): Community-controlled treasury for funding public goods
- On-chain voting: Validators and delegators can vote on proposals
- Steward system: Elected community members who manage PGF
How is Namada Different?
| Feature | Namada | Other Privacy Chains |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-asset privacy | ✅ Yes | ❌ Usually single asset |
| IBC compatible | ✅ Yes | ❌ Rarely |
| Shielded rewards | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Asset-agnostic | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
The NAM Token
NAM is the native token of Namada used for:
- Staking: Secure the network and earn rewards
- Governance: Vote on protocol proposals
- Gas fees: Pay for transactions
- Shielded rewards: Distributed to shielded pool participants
Quick Facts
- Consensus: Proof-of-Stake (CometBFT)
- Privacy Tech: zk-SNARKs + MASP
- Interoperability: IBC + Ethereum bridge (coming)
- Block Time: ~6 seconds
- Genesis: December 2023
Next Steps
Ready to dive in? Here's where to go next:
- Why Privacy Matters - Understand the importance of financial privacy
- First Steps - Set up your wallet and get started
- Quick Start Guide - Complete tutorial to shield your first assets
New to blockchain?
Don't worry if some terms are unfamiliar. Check out our Glossary for definitions.