The Helios project, a Layer-1 blockchain designed as an "ETF Layer for Cross-Chain Finance," has officially launched its native token, $HLS, through a Token Generation Event (TGE). The token is now available for public trading on several major centralized exchanges, including KuCoin, BingX, MEXC, Weex, and LBank. This initial listing phase aims to provide global access and liquidity for the token as the project advances toward its full mainnet launch.
Phased Launch Architecture: At launch, $HLS is introduced as an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum and Arbitrum networks. This strategic move allows Helios to leverage established infrastructure and liquidity during its current Mainnet Beta phase. The project's independent Helios Mainnet is scheduled to go live in Q1 2026, at which point $HLS will transition to become the native asset of the Helios chain. Post-mainnet launch, users will be able to bridge their tokens via Hyperion, Helios's cross-chain execution modules.
Substantial Financial Backing: Concurrently with the TGE, Helios confirmed it has secured a total of $19 million in funding. This sum comprises a $15 million strategic commitment from Bolts Capital for long-term product and ecosystem development, and $4 million raised through community launchpads, indicating strong pre-launch demand. The capital is earmarked for core infrastructure development, ecosystem incentives, and future product launches.
Roadmap and Future Vision: Following the token launch, Helios enters a new execution phase focused on network expansion and user/developer onboarding. Immediate priorities include operating the Mainnet Beta with supervised validators and activating an incentive program. The project is also developing "Forge," an application for creating and minting on-chain ETFs, alongside AI-driven portfolio strategies intended to support a wide array of digital and real-world assets.
