Ripple (XRP) is changing the game for cross-border payments and Ethereum (ETH) continues to drive DeFi and Web3 innovation.

Bitcoin (BTC) also remains the leading digital currency, but it still faces a lot of issues. PlutoChain ($PLUTO) is a new hybrid Layer-2 project that might be able to solve them in 2025. It could make BTC faster, cheaper, and more versatile.

Here’s all you need to know.

PlutoChain ($PLUTO): The Hybrid Layer-2 Upgrade That May Make Bitcoin Practical for Daily Transactions

Bitcoin still struggles with everyday usability. Slow transaction times, high fees, and limited flexibility make it tough for businesses and individuals to rely on it for payments. PlutoChain ($PLUTO) is a hybrid Layer-2 solution designed to potentially make Bitcoin faster, cheaper, and more efficient.

While Bitcoin block times can take up to 10 minutes to confirm, PlutoChain offers block times of just two seconds on its own Layer-2 chain — a game-changer for instant payments and global transfers.

Another big benefit is lower fees. Bitcoin’s transaction costs often make small payments impractical, but PlutoChain is built to potentially reduce costs, which could make transactions more accessible for users and businesses.

It brings Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, which means Bitcoin could finally support DeFi applications, NFTs, and even AI-powered blockchain projects. This might expand its use cases far beyond its original design.

Scalability is another key advantage. In testing, PlutoChain processed over 43,200 transactions in a single day with no slowdowns, which proves it can handle heavy network demand.

Security is also a major focus. PlutoChain has been audited by SolidProof, QuillAudits, and Assure DeFi, and undergoes regular stress tests and code reviews to keep the network secure and reliable.

Unlike Bitcoin, where miners and developers make key decisions, PlutoChain gives users a voice and encourages them to propose and vote on upgrades. This brings a more community-driven approach.

Bitcoin (BTC): The Pioneer of Decentralized and Secure Digital Money

Bitcoin is trading at around $98,067.76, with a 0.6% increase in the past 24 hours. The 24-hour trading volume is approximately $32.29 billion.

Companies like MicroStrategy have doubled down on their Bitcoin investments, holding massive amounts as part of their strategy. At the same time, self-custody solutions like Block Inc.’s Bitkey wallet are making it easier for everyday users to manage their Bitcoin securely.

Analyst elGato expects Bitcoin to drop below $95,500 before hitting a buying zone, followed by a potential rebound above $98,300, but only if a bullish setup emerges.

Ripple (XRP): The Bridge Currency for Seamless Cross-Border Transactions

XRP is trading at around $2.50, with a 24-hour trading volume of $3.93 billion. Over the past day, its price has climbed 3.09%.

WisdomTree has launched an XRP-backed exchange-traded product (ETP) on major European exchanges, including Deutsche Börse Xetra, SIX, and Euronext in Paris and Amsterdam.

This new ETP offers investors easy access to XRP, featuring a low 0.50% management fee and enhanced security through cold storage.

Analyst Dark Defender predicts XRP is nearing the end of its consolidation and could soon break out, with short-term targets at $5.85 and $8.76.

Ethereum (ETH): The Leading Smart Contract Platform Powering DeFi and Web3

Ethereum is trading at around $2,700.31, with a 1.7% gain in the past 24 hours. Its 24-hour trading volume is approximately $17.77 billion.

Ethereum remains at the heart of DeFi and Web3 innovation. In March 2024, the network rolled out the Dencun upgrade, which introduced proto-danksharding (EIP-4844) to improve scalability and lower transaction fees on Layer 2 networks.

The next upgrade will be in March, called the Pectra upgrade – and this could be another major step forward for ETH adoption.

Crypto General believes Ethereum is currently consolidating due to low weekend liquidity but expects a strong breakout to $6,000.

The Takeaway

While these giants continue to shape the sector, PlutoChain might steal the show because it could fill a major gap in Bitcoin’s ecosystem.

With faster transactions, lower fees, and EVM compatibility, PlutoChain could be the missing piece that makes Bitcoin practical for everyday use.

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This article is not financial advice. Past results are not indicative of future returns, and the crypto market is inherently unpredictable. Readers must conduct their own thorough research before purchasing any crypto coin or token. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and may remain unchanged.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored press release. Please do your research before buying any cryptocurrency or investing in any projects. Read the full disclosure here.