– Alpen Labs launches Bitcoin public testnet to enable decentralized finance (DeFi) applications like trading and stablecoin usage directly on the blockchain.

– The ZK-rollup-based testnet with EVM compatibility allows developers to build on-chain financial tools while maintaining Bitcoin’s security and reducing costs.

– BTC-backed stablecoin Bitcoin Dollar (BTD) and lending functionality aim to replace intermediary-dependent financial services with peer-to-peer solutions.

– Founded by MIT graduates and backed by top VCs, Alpen’s initiative aligns with growing institutional interest in Bitcoin’s infrastructure beyond its store-of-value role.

– This development signals Bitcoin’s evolution into a functional financial platform, potentially reshaping its role in the broader ecosystem through native on-chain services.