> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://crosschain-docs.gitbook.io/crosschain-docs-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://crosschain-docs.gitbook.io/crosschain-docs-docs/zerofi-what-to-know-before-you-bridge-assets-into-defi.md).

# ZeroFi: What to know before you bridge assets into DeFi

ZeroFi is useful only when its live bridge supports your asset, destination network, and a way back to the native coin. It turns coins such as Monero into wrapped tokens, which stand for coins held elsewhere. Check those three conditions, the full cost of going there and back, and who controls the held coins before sending anything.

### What does ZeroFi actually bridge?

The protocol aims to bring Monero and Bitcoin into Ethereum and other EVM networks, which run Ethereum-style apps. On the destination network, zXMR or zBTC represents the native coin held by the bridge. That lets people use the token in decentralized finance (DeFi) apps for trading or lending.

As of 20 October 2026, the visible bridge shows Monero deposits and zXMR on Ethereum Sepolia, a test network. Its screen shows a 0.01 XMR minimum and credits deposits after 10 Monero confirmations. The official Test Bridge Release Announcement confirms the test setup; a description of zBTC does not establish a live Bitcoin route.

### Which four checks decide whether to use it?

Check the live route, backing, full cost, and withdrawal path before you send.

* The exact asset and destination network
* Backing and control of the held coins
* Fees in both directions
* A working return to the native coin

**Match the route.** Check that the receiving app accepts the token on the exact network shown by the bridge. At [zerofi.pro](https://zerofi.pro/), compare the ZeroFi Monero bridge route with the network in your wallet. Sepolia zXMR cannot be used in an app on Ethereum mainnet.

**Check the backing.** A 1:1 peg means one wrapped token should represent one native coin before fees. Compare the explorer’s held XMR with its issued zXMR, then check who can approve releases. Ethereum.org’s bridge documentation explains the risks of bridges that rely on outside validators; matching totals alone cannot prove withdrawals will work.

**Calculate the full cost.** For example, a quoted 0.5% deposit fee on 1 XMR is 0.005 XMR, leaving 0.995 zXMR. Add the quoted withdrawal fee and network fees for the return trip. Ethereum gas is the payment for processing a transaction; it is paid in ETH and changes with network demand.

**Plan the return.** Confirm that you can burn, or destroy, zXMR and receive native XMR at your Monero address. Check the current withdrawal minimum, required ETH, and expected wait. If testing the route, start with an amount above the displayed minimum and complete a withdrawal before sending more.

### FAQ

These two questions often settle the decision.

#### Is zXMR as private as Monero?

No. Monero hides details of native transfers, while balances and transfers of an ordinary token on an Ethereum-style network are public. Monero’s official documentation describes privacy on its own chain. That privacy does not follow the coin into a wrapped token, so check which network will show your activity before you deposit.

#### Can I bridge Bitcoin as zBTC now?

Only if the live bridge lists a BTC deposit and a BTC withdrawal on the networks you need. The protocol describes zBTC, but the visible interface currently shows XMR to Sepolia. Check the BTC route, token contract, backing, and redemption steps in the current interface. A token named in a project description is not proof that its bridge is live.

Use the route only when its live networks, backing, total cost, and tested return path all fit your purpose.