Uniswap has officially launched on X Layer, a layer-2 blockchain developed by the cryptocurrency exchange OKX. This integration positions Uniswap as the preferred decentralized exchange on the chain, marking a significant step in OKX's ongoing expansion within the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector.
The integration provides X Layer users with direct access to Uniswap's extensive markets. This includes a wide array of cryptocurrency token pairs and liquidity pools. Swaps executed on X Layer benefit from layer-2 cost efficiencies, and Uniswap Labs confirmed that no fees are charged by the protocol itself for these transactions.
Understanding X Layer and Its Role in DeFi
Launched in 2024, X Layer is an Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible network established by OKX. It serves as a fundamental infrastructure component for the exchange's suite of decentralized finance applications. The network is seamlessly integrated with both OKX's wallet and its primary exchange platform, facilitating the smooth transfer of user assets into the layer-2 network.
Uniswap stands as one of the largest and most utilized decentralized exchanges globally. According to data from DefiLlama, it currently holds approximately $4.4 billion in total value locked. Hayden Adams, founder of Uniswap Labs, expressed optimism about the new integration, stating that it is expected to drive "increased activity and liquidity" for Uniswap.
Star Xu, founder and CEO of OKX, highlighted the significance of this integration, describing it as a "core pillar of phase two" of the company's strategic three-phase rollout. This phase is specifically focused on integrating prominent DeFi protocols and reinforcing the network's core infrastructure.
Exchanges Advance DeFi Integration Through Layer-2 Chains
Centralized exchanges are increasingly prioritizing the connection between on-chain activities and their existing, large user bases. This strategy aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the burgeoning world of decentralized finance.
In February 2023, Coinbase introduced Base, its own Ethereum layer-2 blockchain. Base was designed to offer developers a cost-effective and secure environment for the development of decentralized applications. Early in 2024, Base began to rapidly gain traction among decentralized exchange traders, surpassing rival networks such as Ethereum and Arbitrum, according to data from Token Terminal at the time. By January 2024, Base was facilitating approximately 80% of Uniswap's monthly active traders.
More recently, in September 2025, the crypto exchange Gate.io announced the launch of Gate Layer. This layer-2 network is built upon the OP Stack and secured by GateChain. Gate.io presented Gate Layer as the foundational element of its DeFi ecosystem, subsequently introducing on-chain trading and liquidity products as part of its broader Web3 strategy.