@ZestProtocol

Zest Protocol is a Bitcoin-native lending protocol built on Stacks that enables users to earn yield on BTC or borrow against it.

The protocol just launched its $ZEST token (May 19, 2026) with listings on major exchanges including Binance Alpha, KuCoin, Gate, and MEXC.

Backed by Draper VC and Y2Z Labs, the protocol has been live on Stacks since Q1 2024 with plans to expand to native Bitcoin support.

Green flags: Legitimate VC backing (Draper VC, Y2Z Labs) and audited contracts · Working product live on Stacks mainnet since Q1 2024 with measurable TVL · Clear technical roadmap from L2 (Stacks) to native Bitcoin L1 integration

Red flags: Already established with 96k followers and major exchange listings (Binance, KuCoin, Gate, MEXC) - not early-stage · Token already trading globally across tier-1 exchanges - beyond discovery phase · Account is 3+ years old (Feb 2022) - not a new/emerging project