eCash (XEC) is a next-generation cryptocurrency that evolved from the Bitcoin Cash ABC (BCHA) network. Designed as a scalable, fast, and user-friendly digital payment system, XEC aims to fulfill the original vision of Bitcoin as peer-to-peer electronic cash—enhanced with modern blockchain innovations. Built on a robust foundation inherited from Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash, eCash introduces cutting-edge features such as staking, fork-free upgrades, and Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility to support decentralized applications.
With its rebranding in July 2021 and a 1:1,000,000 redenomination of BCHA into XEC, the project has positioned itself as a high-throughput, low-cost alternative for everyday transactions and DeFi innovation.
What Is eCash (XEC)?
eCash (XEC) is the native cryptocurrency of the eCash network, which originated as a fork of Bitcoin Cash ABC (BCHA) in November 2020. BCHA itself was a split from Bitcoin Cash (BCH), making XEC a descendant of both Bitcoin (BTC) and BCH in the broader blockchain family tree.
The rebranding to eCash in 2021 marked more than just a name change—it represented a technological leap forward. The team behind the project aimed to enhance scalability, transaction speed, and developer accessibility while preserving the core principles of decentralization and financial sovereignty.
At the heart of eCash’s innovation is the integration of the Avalanche consensus protocol, a breakthrough layer that significantly improves transaction finality. Unlike traditional proof-of-work systems where confirmations can take minutes, eCash achieves secure, irreversible transactions in under three seconds. This makes it highly suitable for retail payments and real-time financial services.
Another key advancement is fork-free network upgrades. Instead of splitting the chain during protocol changes—a common source of community conflict in other blockchains—eCash uses a dynamic upgrade mechanism that allows seamless updates without disrupting service or fragmenting the network.
Additionally, eCash supports subchains, which are independent blockchains anchored to the main eCash chain. These subchains enable developers to create customized environments for specific applications while benefiting from the security and stability of the parent chain.
Core Principles of eCash
The project aligns with five foundational missions inspired by economist Milton Friedman’s vision of free-market money:
- Fast transactions: Settlements in less than three seconds.
- Low cost: Minimal fees even during peak usage.
- Security: Inherits Bitcoin’s cryptographic strength with added Avalanche finality.
- Immutability: Once confirmed, transactions cannot be altered.
- Privacy: Focused on user anonymity without compromising traceability for compliance.
These principles are reinforced by a "coin social contract," ensuring that network infrastructure remains a public good maintained through community participation and token economics.
Founders and Development Team
While the concept of electronic cash dates back to Dr. David Chaum’s DigiCash in 1990—an early attempt at digital currency that ultimately failed due to lack of adoption—the modern eCash (XEC) project was spearheaded by Amaury Sechet, the lead developer of Bitcoin ABC and creator of Bitcoin Cash.
Sechet is widely recognized in the crypto space for his pivotal role in the 2017 Bitcoin hard fork that led to the creation of BCH. His work continues with eCash, where he leads development efforts focused on building a practical, scalable payment network.
Under Sechet’s guidance, the eCash team has introduced several firsts for Bitcoin-derived blockchains:
- First BTC-based chain with staking capabilities
- First to implement Avalanche consensus for instant finality
- First to offer EVM-compatible subchains
This blend of Bitcoin heritage and Ethereum-like programmability positions eCash uniquely in the crypto ecosystem.
How Does XEC Work?
eCash combines the best aspects of Bitcoin’s security model with innovative upgrades to support modern financial use cases.
Blockchain Architecture
The eCash network operates on a capped supply model: 21 trillion XEC tokens, mirroring Bitcoin’s scarcity principle but adjusted for microtransaction usability. The redenomination from BCHA to XEC (1 BCHA = 1,000,000 XEC) reduced decimal places from eight to two, making balances easier to read and manage—similar to how fiat currencies use cents.
The network maintains key Bitcoin features:
- Fixed supply cap
- Halving schedule to control inflation
- Genesis block continuity
Yet it enhances functionality through:
- Proof-of-Stake layer via Avalanche consensus: Speeds up validation and reduces energy consumption.
- Staking rewards: Users can stake XEC to earn passive income and participate in governance.
- Smart contract support via EVM Subchain: Enables developers to deploy Ethereum-compatible dApps without rewriting code.
Developer-Friendly Ecosystem
One of eCash’s standout features is its EVM Subchain, which allows seamless migration of existing Ethereum-based projects. Developers can port their dApps directly onto the eCash network, leveraging lower fees and faster confirmations.
Moreover, users and developers can mint their own tokens—called eTokens—directly through the eCash dashboard. These tokens support customizable parameters like:
- Token name
- Total supply
- Decimal precision
- Icon/logo
This functionality opens doors for use in DeFi, NFTs, loyalty programs, and enterprise solutions.
Wallet and Security
eCash provides an official wallet that uses SIGHASH mechanisms to enhance transaction security. Users can:
- Track balances and staking rewards
- Buy, sell, and trade XEC
- Interact with dApps on the EVM Subchain
For long-term holders, storing XEC in hardware wallets like Ledger Nano S/X is recommended to maximize security.
How to Buy XEC
Purchasing XEC involves a few straightforward steps across supported exchanges.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Register on a fiat-to-crypto exchange
Choose platforms like Binance, Huobi Global, or OKX that support direct fiat deposits (USD, EUR, etc.). - Buy ETH or BTC with fiat
Complete KYC verification and link a payment method (credit card, bank transfer). Purchase Ethereum or Bitcoin as your base currency. - Transfer to an altcoin exchange
If your chosen exchange doesn’t list XEC directly, transfer ETH/BTC to an altcoin-focused platform like Gate.io or ZB.com that offers XEC trading pairs. - Trade for XEC
Place an order using ETH/XEC or BTC/XEC pairs. Confirm the transaction once executed. - Secure your holdings
For long-term storage, transfer XEC to a non-custodial wallet. Hardware wallets provide the highest level of protection against hacks.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the total supply of XEC?
A: The maximum supply of eCash is capped at 21 trillion XEC tokens.
Q: Is eCash a fork of Bitcoin?
A: Yes, eCash traces its lineage back to Bitcoin via Bitcoin Cash ABC (BCHA), making it an indirect fork of Bitcoin.
Q: Can you stake XEC?
A: Yes, XEC supports staking through its integrated Proof-of-Stake layer powered by Avalanche consensus, allowing users to earn rewards and help secure the network.
Q: How fast are eCash transactions?
A: Transactions achieve finality in under three seconds thanks to the Avalanche consensus mechanism.
Q: Is eCash compatible with Ethereum dApps?
A: Yes, through its EVM Subchain, developers can deploy or migrate Ethereum-based smart contracts seamlessly.
Q: Where can I check live XEC price data?
A: Real-time price charts, market cap, trading volume, and circulating supply can be viewed on major crypto tracking platforms.
Disclaimer: This article does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and carry significant risk. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions.