Streamlining DeFi: PancakeSwap Tackles Crosschain Complexity
PancakeSwap, one of the leading decentralized exchanges (DEXs), has introduced one-click crosschain swaps through a new integration with Across Protocol, making DeFi interactions easier, safer, and faster. The update is now live on BNB Chain, Arbitrum, and Base, marking a major step forward in user experience for decentralized finance.
No More Bridge Hassles
With this feature, users can now swap tokens across chains directly within PancakeSwap’s interface—no need for clunky third-party bridges or external wallets. Using intent-based transfers powered by Across, users simply define their desired transaction—such as swapping USDC on Base for WETH on Arbitrum—and a decentralized network of relayers competes to execute the swap.
This setup removes the need to lock assets in smart contracts, minimizing risk and reducing fees. Swaps are fulfilled in real time, often completing in just three seconds.
A Safer Alternative to Blockchain Bridges
Traditional crosschain activity has often relied on blockchain bridges, which have proven vulnerable to exploits. The most notorious example is the 2022 Ronin Bridge hack, where attackers drained over $600 million from Axie Infinity’s ecosystem.
By contrast, intent-based swaps don’t require users to lock funds, significantly reducing attack surfaces. “Crosschain swaps using intent-based bridges are generally safer because they don’t lock your assets in a contract,” said Chef Kids, PancakeSwap’s Head Chef. “This setup improves security and gives users a smoother, faster experience.”
Paving the Way for Institutional DeFi Adoption
PancakeSwap believes this integration could be key to the next wave of institutional DeFi adoption. By simplifying the technical process, reducing smart contract risk, and offering clean execution, institutions can more easily onboard to multi-chain DeFi systems.
“Crosschain swaps reduce operational complexity and offer clearer execution paths,” said Chef Kids. Hart Lambur, co-founder of Across, agrees, calling intent-based infrastructure “the key to onboarding institutions” into the DeFi space.
The Rise of Crosschain Standards
PancakeSwap isn’t alone in the push to improve crosschain UX. In October 2024, Unichain proposed ERC-7683, a standard designed to simplify how data is transmitted across blockchain networks. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin supported the move, calling it “an open standard for marking crosschain orders.”
Across is also integrated with UniswapX, and its network of over 30 decentralized solvers fills orders using their own funds, taking on finality risk. Meanwhile, DEX aggregator 1inch recently launched its Pathfinder update to offer better swap rates and faster transaction times.
Conclusion: A Smoother, Safer Future for Crosschain DeFi
With the rollout of one-click crosschain swaps, PancakeSwap is setting a new standard for DeFi usability. As demand for crosschain interoperability grows, solutions like Across Protocol—and industry-wide standards like ERC-7683—are poised to reshape how users and institutions interact across blockchains.
