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Thor chain v3.20 launches native xmr and zec swaps

THORChain Strikes Back | New Native Swaps for Privacy Coins

By

Jae Min

Sep 1, 2026, 03:35 AM

Edited By

Jessica Lin

3 minutes reading time

Illustration of THORChain platform showcasing native swaps for XMR and ZEC

A recent update from THORChain introduces native swaps for Monero (XMR) and Zcash (ZEC). This move comes at a pivotal time, as more centralized exchanges (CEXs) are dropping privacy coins from their listings. As traders seek alternatives, this development could reshape access to privacy-driven transactions and liquidity.

The Significance of Privacy Coin Integration

With privacy coins facing increased scrutiny, THORChain is stepping up. They are establishing a way to swap XMR and ZEC directly into Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) without the need for wrapped tokens or centralized platforms. This could create a more stable environment for users concerned about the future of privacy in crypto.

User Perspectives on Native Swaps

Users are keenly aware of the growing challenges facing privacy coins. One user noted, "If CEX access keeps getting worse, then having a native route out of ZEC without wrapping it first starts solving a market access problem."

This sentiment is echoed across forums discussing the implications of delisting. One commenter highlighted, "Native liquidity into BTC and ETH solves a real access problem if CEX support keeps shrinking."

Curiously, the idea of direct access to major cryptocurrencies has sparked discussions around the viability of privacy coins in the current market.

The Current Trend of CEX Delistings

More exchanges are reportedly moving away from privacy coins, igniting conversations about access to these assets. Users are expressing concern over fewer platforms supporting ZEC. The ability to convert ZEC directly to BTC or ETH on-chain may provide a necessary lifeline for holders.

"If fewer exchanges want to touch ZEC, being able to go straight into BTC or ETH on-chain is a pretty big deal" - a user observing the evolving landscape.

Key Insights on Future of Privacy Coins

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Increased native swaps may boost privacy coin usability.

  • ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Many users show positive sentiment about direct access to liquidity.

  • ๐Ÿฆ The trend of CEX delistings raises crucial questions about market access.

Finale: What Does This Mean for the Market?

The rise of native swaps for privacy coins emphasizes the ongoing struggle for digital privacy. While industry analysts watch the landscape closely, one burning question remains: Can privacy coins thrive without the support of major exchanges?

This shift in THORChain's functionality could either muddy the waters or clear the path for a stronger future for privacy in crypto.

Possible Outcomes for Privacy Coins

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that native swaps for privacy coins like XMR and ZEC could significantly enhance their usability and adoption. As more users seek secure alternatives amidst diminishing support from centralized exchanges, THORChainโ€™s launch may attract a growing number of traders looking for on-chain solutions. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that this integration will lead to increased demand for privacy-focused transactions. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning regulatory scrutiny that can affect liquidity and market access. If privacy coins manage to carve out a more stable environment through these swaps, it might only be a matter of time before new use cases and applications emerge, reshaping user perceptions and societal norms surrounding digital privacy.

A Lesson from the Rise of E-commerce

Reflecting on the late 1990s, the rise of e-commerce serves as an intriguing parallel to the current situation with privacy coins. Just as early online shops struggled for recognition as traditional retailers hesitated to transition to digital platforms, todayโ€™s privacy coins are navigating a similar path against established norms of transparency. Much like how e-commerce went from being a niche market to a dominant force, privacy coins could similarly evolve, finding acceptance in spaces where traditional methods falter. The increasing demand for secure transactions may drive a renaissance of sorts for privacy features in crypto, much like how online shopping fundamentally changed consumer behavior.