Chain Guides5 min read
Gnosis Chain: The Prediction Market Blockchain
Learn about Gnosis Chain — from xDai origins to prediction markets, real-world payments, and community governance.
What Is Gnosis Chain?
Gnosis Chain (formerly xDai Chain) is an EVM-compatible sidechain that uses GNO for staking and xDAI (a bridged DAI) as the native gas token. This unique design makes transaction costs denominated in dollars, simplifying UX.
History
- 2018: Launched as xDai Chain, the first stable-payment blockchain
- 2021: Merged with Gnosis to become Gnosis Chain
- 2023: Upgraded to beacon chain (proof-of-stake with GNO)
Unique Features
- Stable gas: Using xDAI for gas means predictable, dollar-denominated fees
- Low barriers: ~100 GNO to run a validator (vs 32 ETH on Ethereum)
- Gnosis Safe origin: The most trusted multi-sig wallet was built here
- Prediction markets: Gnosis originated as a prediction market protocol
Key Ecosystem Projects
- Gnosis Safe: Multi-sig wallets managing billions in DeFi
- Omen: Decentralized prediction market
- Swapr: Governance-powered DEX
- Agave: Lending protocol (Aave fork)
- Gnosis Pay: Visa debit card connected to your Gnosis Safe
Gnosis Pay
One of the most exciting developments — a Visa debit card that lets you spend directly from your Gnosis Safe. Real-world crypto payments with no intermediary holding your funds.
Bridging to Gnosis Chain
Use Alkizen to bridge from any chain to Gnosis Chain. Whether you want to trade on Gnosis DEXs or fund your Gnosis Pay card, Alkizen routes assets through the optimal path.