Robinhood Launches Public Testnet for Layer-2 Chain

Ethereum L2 Testnet to Expand DeFi Push for Robinhood

Robinhood is taking its blockchain ambitions a step further. The retail brokerage announced that Robinhood Chain, its Ethereum layer-2 network, has entered a public testnet phase. The move allows developers to begin building and testing applications in a controlled environment before the network is fully integrated into Robinhood’s broader ecosystem.

According to the company, the testnet is designed as a low-risk setting where developers can evaluate the network’s technical capabilities and explore how tokenized assets function within Robinhood’s infrastructure.

The brokerage first introduced tokenized stocks in June, signaling a deeper push into digital asset infrastructure. Now, Robinhood is looking to see how those stock tokens can operate seamlessly alongside traditional financial systems.

Johann Kerbrat, senior vice president and general manager of Robinhood Crypto, said the company’s goal goes beyond simply improving Ethereum’s scalability. Kerbrat noted that Robinhood aims to use the technology to rebuild parts of its internal systems while expanding crypto-native services.

Layer-2 networks are typically used to increase transaction speed and reduce costs on Ethereum. However, Robinhood is positioning its chain as both infrastructure and product, one that could support applications such as perpetual futures platforms, lending protocols, and other decentralized finance tools.

The testnet is open to developers experienced in decentralized finance ( DeFi) applications, as well as institutions that may eventually launch products on the network. By combining tokenized equities with blockchain rails, Robinhood appears to be carving out its own space in the evolving crypto-finance landscape, bridging traditional brokerage services with decentralized technology.

FAQ🚀

• What is Robinhood Chain?
  An Ethereum layer-2 network built by Robinhood.
• What is the public testnet for?
  It lets developers test apps and tokenized assets safely.
• What are Robinhood stock tokens?
  Blockchain-based representations of traditional stocks.
• Who can build on the network?
  DeFi developers and interested institutions.