Wrapped Tokens
Wrapped tokens are digital assets that represent another underlying cryptocurrency or asset on a different blockchain than its native chain. They are created by locking the original asset in a smart contract or with a custodian and minting a corresponding amount of the wrapped version on the target network.
This allows users to access the utility, liquidity, and features of a different ecosystem without selling their original holdings. For example, wrapped Bitcoin allows Bitcoin holders to participate in decentralized finance applications on the Ethereum network.
The value of the wrapped token is intended to remain pegged 1:1 to the underlying asset. If the bridge or custodian holding the collateral fails, the wrapped token can lose its peg and become worthless, creating a significant counterparty risk.