The blockchain world just got a major upgrade. Wormhole, a leading cross-chain interoperability protocol, has officially launched its Native Token Transfer (NTT) framework on the Sui Network, a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain. This integration is a big deal for decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and beyond, as it allows developers and users to deploy tokens with built-in multichain capabilities directly on Sui. These tokens can seamlessly move across blockchains via Wormhole’s Portal Bridge, opening up new possibilities for liquidity, innovation, and user engagement. Let’s dive into what this means, how it works, and why it’s a pivotal moment for the blockchain ecosystem.
A New Era for Cross-Chain Interoperability
Imagine a world where your digital assets can travel effortlessly between blockchains without losing their core properties. That’s the promise of Wormhole’s NTT framework, now live on Sui. Unlike traditional token bridges that rely on wrapped tokens—synthetic versions of assets that can fragment liquidity and limit functionality—NTT enables native token transfers. This means tokens deployed on Sui can move to other supported chains, like Solana or Ethereum-based (EVM) networks, while retaining their original characteristics. No more clunky workarounds or liquidity pools that lead to high fees and slippage.<:>, <:>
Sui, known for its blazing-fast transaction speeds and low fees thanks to its Move programming language and parallel processing, is the perfect partner for this innovation. The integration builds on Wormhole’s prior work with Sui, including the Sui Canonical Bridge UI launched in late 2024, and takes cross-chain functionality to the next level. Momentum, a decentralized exchange (DEX) on Sui, is the first platform to support NTT-powered assets, setting the stage for billions in cross-chain liquidity by September 2025.<:>
How Native Token Transfers Redefine the Game
So, what’s the big deal about NTT? Traditional cross-chain bridges often use a “lock and mint” or “burn and mint” approach, where tokens are locked on one chain and a wrapped version is issued on another. This can lead to liquidity fragmentation, where the same asset exists in multiple forms across chains, creating inefficiencies and poor user experiences. NTT flips this model on its head. Tokens are deployed natively across multiple chains, and Wormhole’s interoperability layer ensures seamless transfers without the need for synthetic versions.<:>
For developers, this is a dream come true. They can now create tokens on Sui with multichain capabilities baked in from the start. These tokens can be listed and accessed through Wormhole’s Portal Bridge, a user-friendly interface that simplifies cross-chain transfers. Whether it’s a DeFi protocol, a gaming platform, or an NFT project, NTT ensures assets behave consistently across chains, maintaining their unique features and ownership structures. Nikhil Suri, product lead at Wormhole Foundation, sums it up well: “Native token transfers ensure that projects maintain ownership, upgradeability, and customizability over their tokens on various blockchains.”<:>
Momentum: The First Mover in Sui’s DeFi Surge
Momentum, a DeFi protocol on Sui, is leading the charge as the first DEX to integrate NTT-powered assets. Launched in beta on March 31, 2025, Momentum has already hit a total value locked (TVL) of $95 million and facilitated over $4 billion in swap volume, with 450,000 unique users onboarded. Its partnership with Wormhole and OKX Wallet is a strategic move to boost Sui’s liquidity and attract new users.<:>,<:>
Starting with tokens like GateToken (GT), MEXC Token (MX), and Solana’s memecoin Bonk (BONK), Momentum is seeding liquidity for cross-chain trading pairs ahead of the bridge’s full launch in September 2025. These tokens bring diversity—GT and MX appeal to centralized exchange users, while BONK draws in retail traders. Momentum’s WAGMI Trading Competition, running from June 16 to September 8, 2025, incentivizes participation by letting users earn “Bricks” for trading and liquidity provision, which will convert to airdropped tokens at the Token Generation Event (TGE).<:>, <:>
Momentum’s vision goes beyond being a standard DEX. By adopting the ve(3,3) model pioneered by Curve, it aims to become Sui’s central liquidity engine, using dynamic gauge voting and emission control to maximize yields for liquidity providers. This approach fosters deep protocol engagement and sets Momentum apart in the competitive DeFi landscape.<:>
What’s Driving This Integration’s Impact?
The Wormhole-Sui partnership is more than just a technical upgrade—it’s a catalyst for ecosystem growth. Here’s why it’s resonating:
- Liquidity Boost: By enabling native token transfers, Wormhole is set to unlock billions in cross-chain liquidity for Sui. This attracts new projects, developers, and users, strengthening Sui’s position in DeFi and GameFi.<:>
- Developer Empowerment: Sui’s high throughput and low fees, combined with NTT’s flexibility, give developers a robust platform to build cross-chain applications, from lending protocols to NFT marketplaces.<:>
- User Incentives: Momentum’s collaboration with OKX’s Cryptopedia platform offers over $1 million in rewards, making it easier for users to discover and interact with Sui-based projects like xSUI (a liquid staking token) and xBTC (OKX’s wrapped Bitcoin token).<:>,<:>
- Security and Scalability: Wormhole’s decentralized Guardian network ensures secure, low-cost transfers, while Sui’s architecture supports large-scale dApps, making this a match made in blockchain heaven.<:>
Dan Reecer, co-founder of Wormhole Foundation, highlights the strategic fit: “By bringing our Native Token Transfers framework to Sui, we’re enabling seamless cross-chain liquidity flows that will strengthen Momentum’s market positioning.<:>
Looking Ahead: A Connected Blockchain Future
The road ahead looks promising, but challenges remain. Cross-chain bridges have historically been targets for hackers, so Wormhole must continue prioritizing security through audits and its Guardian network. Sui also needs to invest in user education and developer support to fully capitalize on this integration.<:>
Still, the potential is massive. With NTT, Sui could become a major player in DeFi and GameFi, rivaling chains like Solana. The integration is already attracting high-profile tokens and partnerships, and as more assets join, Sui’s TVL is expected to surge—potentially by 90% or more, as recent reports suggest. Momentum’s strategic funding round, backed by heavyweights like OKX Ventures and Coinbase Ventures, further signals confidence in Sui’s growth trajectory.<:>,<:>
This partnership isn’t just about moving tokens; it’s about building a more connected, efficient, and inclusive blockchain ecosystem. As ChefWen, Momentum’s co-founder, puts it, “This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to serving as a public good within the Sui ecosystem and accelerating its growth.”<:>
A Vision for DeFi’s Next Chapter
The launch of Wormhole’s NTT framework on Sui is a bold step toward a multichain future. By enabling native token deployment and seamless cross-chain transfers, this integration empowers developers, boosts liquidity, and enhances user experiences. Momentum’s early adoption and OKX’s support amplify the impact, positioning Sui as a powerhouse in DeFi and beyond. As the bridge goes live in September 2025, expect Sui to attract more projects, capital, and attention, reshaping the blockchain landscape. This isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a blueprint for a more interoperable, user-centric DeFi world.
Sources:
- Wormhole Docs: Native Token Transfers<:>
- AInvest: Momentum Expands Cross-Chain Liquidity<:>
- Suipiens: Momentum Teams Up with Wormhole & OKX<:>
- Chainwire: Momentum Teams with Wormhole and OKX Wallet<:>
- Blockworks: Wormhole Goes Multichain with Native Token Transfers<:>
- AInvest: Wormhole Expands NTT Framework to Sui Network <:>
- AInvest: Sui’s TVL Surges 90%<:>
