Lombard, Chainlink, and Symbiotic partner to introduce BARD token utility through restaking and launch the first cross-chain LBTC cryptoeconomic security layer.

Lombard announced a groundbreaking three-way collaboration with Chainlink and Symbiotic to introduce BARD token utility through restaking and launch the industry's first economically secure cross-chain bridging solution. This collaboration combines Chainlink's Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) with Symbiotic's universal staking framework to create an additional layer of cryptoeconomic security for LBTC cross-chain transfers. By integrating Symbiotic's permissionless restaking architecture with CCIP's modular security framework, this collaboration sets a new standard for top-tier BTC derivatives, achieving both maximum interoperability and cryptoeconomic security. This innovative model directly aligns the protocol's cryptoeconomic security with BARD token utility. Through features like token developer certification and integration with external cryptoeconomic systems, asset issuers can customize protection schemes for cross-chain transfers without requiring any modifications to CCIP itself. "We are excited to collaborate with Symbiotic and Lombard to enhance the cryptoeconomic security of cross-chain LBTC transfers, highlighting the flexibility of CCIP's modular security architecture to meet the needs of any use case," said Johann Eid, Chief Business Officer of Chainlink Labs. As a chain-agnostic Bitcoin derivative designed to flow freely within the DeFi ecosystem, LBTC requires infrastructure commensurate with its ambitions. Every cross-chain transfer now benefits from a dual layer of protection: Chainlink's time-proven CCIP infrastructure and Symbiotic's cryptoeconomic security model. Jacob Phillips, co-founder of Lombard, said, "LBTC is a chain-agnostic asset that meets the needs of a cross-network, rather than being confined to a single network. LBTC holders want the freedom to move Bitcoin where the best opportunities lie, while also expecting uncompromising security. Pairing the CCIP architecture with Symbiotic's re-collateralization provides the community with stronger economic security. Every staked BARD strengthens LBTC's robustness, aligns incentives, and reinforces the integrity of the interoperability stack." This integration introduces immediate utility for BARD token holders, allowing them to directly participate in the protocol's cryptoeconomic security through a transparent staking mechanism. Staking will be available on the Lombard app, allowing users to enjoy a BARD-denominated yield of 240% APY at launch (decreasing over time) and receive additional incentives from partners. The staking framework is powered by Mellow's multi-vault infrastructure. When users stake BARD, their tokens are deposited into a vault system directly connected to Symbiotic. The backend automatically handles complex operations such as delegated liquidity, compounding rewards, and managing exits, allowing users to earn returns simply by holding their vault shares.