February 19, 2025
Universal has raised $9 million in a seed funding round led by a16z Crypto, aiming to expand access to cross-chain asset trading. The platform introduces uAssets, wrapped tokens that allow traders to transact with assets such as SUI, XRP, and DOGE on networks including Base and Solana. Since launching, uAssets have recorded over $850 million in trading volume.
The platform enables users to trade digital assets without relying on centralized exchanges or blockchain bridges. Through its relayer system, Universal mints and redeems uAssets on demand, ensuring direct and efficient transactions. The company has already integrated its services with Base, Polygon, and Arbitrum and plans to support additional networks. Developers can access Universal’s Relayer API to incorporate cross-chain liquidity into DeFi applications.
About Universal
Universal is a blockchain platform designed to improve asset accessibility for on-chain traders. By offering uAssets, the company allows users to trade native tokens without moving funds across chains or using external intermediaries. The system is compatible with ERC-20 token infrastructure, enabling integration across various DeFi protocols.
Website: https://www.universal.xyz/
X: @universaldotxyz
About Investor
a16z Crypto
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z Crypto) is a venture capital firm specializing in blockchain and Web3 investments. The firm provides financial backing and strategic support to startups developing decentralized technologies.
Location: Menlo Park, California
Website: https://a16zcrypto.com/
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