Linear Finance — commonly referred to by its ticker symbol LINA — is a non-custodial, cross-chain compatible, delta-one asset protocol built on the Ethereum blockchain and compatible with other EVM networks[reference:1]. Its core purpose is to enable users to create, trade, and manage synthetic assets (called "Liquids") that track the value of real-world financial instruments such as commodities, indices, and fiat currencies[reference:2].
The protocol was designed to democratise access to traditional and digital assets, allowing users to gain exposure to assets they might not otherwise be able to trade directly. Linear Finance achieves this through a collateralized debt pool system, where users deposit collateral to mint the protocol's native stablecoin, LUSD, which is then used to trade synthetic assets.
Lina (LINA) is the token; Linear Finance is the protocol. The token powers the ecosystem, while the protocol provides the infrastructure for synthetic asset creation and trading.
Linear Finance was one of the first cross-chain DeFi protocols built on Ethereum[reference:5]. In 2022, the protocol expanded via integrations to other EVM-compatible blockchains, including BNB Chain, Moonriver, and Moonbeam[reference:6]. The project has attracted backing from notable investors such as Alameda Research, CMS Holdings, Huobi Capital, Hashed, and GBV Capital[reference:7].
The Linear Finance protocol consists of several interconnected components that work together to facilitate synthetic asset trading.
At the heart of the protocol is a collateralized debt pool. Users deposit digital or real-world assets into this pool, which acts as a counterparty and guarantees the system's stability. The amount of LUSD that can be minted depends on the amount of collateral the user has placed.
A dApp that lets users stake LINA and other major cryptocurrencies (such as ETH and wBTC) to mint LUSD, the protocol's stablecoin[reference:11][reference:12].
A decentralized exchange that supports trading multiple assets with high liquidity, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, and thematic indexes[reference:13].
Custom swap functionality with low gas fees, allowing users to swap crypto assets across supported blockchains[reference:14].
A yield-generating vault where users can lock their LUSD or LP tokens to earn interest in LUSD, BUSD, and LINA[reference:15].
Synthetic assets are tokenized derivatives that track the value of an underlying asset without requiring users to own the actual asset[reference:16]. Linear supports synthetic assets for a range of underlying instruments, including commodities like gold and silver, as well as crypto indices[reference:17]. The platform uses smart contracts and oracles to ensure that the price of synthetic assets accurately tracks the price of the underlying assets[reference:18].
LINA is the native utility and governance token of the Linear Finance protocol[reference:19]. It serves three primary functions:
LINA has a total and maximum supply of 10 billion tokens[reference:25]. As of recent data, the circulating supply is also 10 billion LINA[reference:27]. A portion of the tokens is allocated for staking rewards, liquidity incentives, and ecosystem growth[reference:29].
Token prices, market cap, and trading volumes change constantly. Always verify current figures using reputable aggregators such as CoinMarketCap or CoinGecko before making any decisions.
Understanding the key metrics associated with LINA can help you assess its position in the broader crypto market. Below is a snapshot of recent data points (note that these figures are subject to change).
| Metric | Value (Approximate) | Source / Date |
|---|---|---|
| Circulating Supply | 10,000,000,000 LINA | Coinbase |
| Max Supply | 10,000,000,000 LINA | Coinbase |
| Total Supply | 10,000,000,000 LINA | Coinbase |
| Market Cap | ~$116,000 – $335,000 USD | Various sources[reference:33][reference:34] |
| 24h Trading Volume | ~$444 – $3,650 USD | CoinDesk / Bitget[reference:35][reference:36] |
| All-Time High | ~$0.31 USD | KuCoin[reference:37] |
| Blockchain | Ethereum (ERC-20), BNB Chain (BEP-20) | Multiple sources[reference:38] |
Cryptocurrency prices and market data can vary across platforms due to differences in liquidity, exchange rates, and reporting times. Always cross-reference multiple sources.
Linear Finance is one of several protocols in the synthetic asset space. The table below compares LINA with two other well-known synthetic asset platforms.
| Feature | Linear Finance (LINA) | Synthetix (SNX) | Mirror Protocol (MIR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Asset Class | Commodities, indices, fiat, crypto | Stocks, commodities, fiat, crypto | US stocks (synthetic) |
| Collateral Type | LINA + other major cryptos | SNX (native token) | mAssets (synthetic stocks) |
| Cross-Chain Support | Yes (Ethereum, BSC, Moonbeam) | Ethereum (Layer 2) | Terra (original), Ethereum |
| Stablecoin | LUSD (Linear USD) | sUSD | UST (formerly) |
| Governance | LINA holders vote | SNX holders vote | MIR holders vote |
| Notable Backers | Alameda, Hashed, GBV | Framework, ParaFi | Delphi, Terraform Labs |
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation. Protocol features and tokenomics may change over time.
If you are considering engaging with Linear Finance or acquiring LINA tokens, use this checklist to guide your research.
Alex wants to gain exposure to gold prices without physically buying gold or using a traditional commodity ETF. Alex decides to use Linear Finance:
Key takeaway: Linear Finance enables exposure to traditional assets through a fully on-chain, permissionless process — but it also exposes the user to smart contract risk, collateral liquidation risk, and market volatility.
Like all DeFi protocols, Linear Finance relies on smart contracts. Despite audits from firms like CertiK and SlowMist[reference:42], there is always a risk of bugs, exploits, or hacks that could result in loss of funds.
If the value of your collateral falls below the required collateralisation ratio, your position may be liquidated. This is particularly relevant in volatile market conditions.
The LINA token itself is subject to significant price volatility. As of recent data, LINA is trading at a fraction of its all-time high of approximately $0.31[reference:43], illustrating the potential for dramatic price swings.
Synthetic assets and DeFi protocols operate in a complex and evolving regulatory landscape. Changes in regulations could affect the availability or legality of the protocol in certain jurisdictions.
Linear Finance's cross-chain functionality introduces additional risks, including bridge vulnerabilities and differences in blockchain security assumptions.
This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Cryptocurrency and DeFi investments carry significant risk, including the potential loss of all capital. Always conduct your own research and consult with qualified professionals before making any investment decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Information provided is based on data available as of July 2026. Verify all current data, platform availability, and regulatory status from official sources before taking any action.