Stellar Adds Cross-Chain Messaging With Ethereum Via VIA Labs

Stellar has gained a new cross-chain messaging connection to Ethereum following the mainnet launch of interoperability infrastructure by VIA Labs. The deployment enables Soroban smart contracts to communicate directly with contracts operating on the Ethereum mainnet.

According to CryptoNews, the integration supports bidirectional messaging, allowing developers to build applications involving stablecoin payments, tokenized real-world assets, and automated contract execution. VIA Labs has deployed a reference token called VIAT to demonstrate the transfers through its messaging system.

Transfer Mechanism and Fees

The reference VIAT implementation utilizes a burn-and-mint mechanism to move tokens between the blockchains. When a transfer is initiated, the originating contract burns the specified amount and generates a message containing the recipient address, transfer amount, and optional transaction memo. VIA validators sign the message before a relayer submits the instructions to the destination gateway.

The transfer process typically completes in approximately one to three minutes. The system converts token amounts between Stellar's seven decimal places and Ethereum's 18 decimal places. Standard network transaction fees apply, though VIA is waiving its protocol fees on Stellar routes during the launch period, with relayers covering destination-side transaction costs.

Key facts

• VIA Labs launched bidirectional cross-chain messaging between Stellar Soroban and Ethereum mainnet on October 28.
• The integration uses a burn-and-mint reference implementation that completes transfers in one to three minutes.
• VIA Labs deployed audited VG1 smart contracts following a security audit by Hashlock.
• Stellar network transfers require ordinary transaction fees paid in XLM, while VIA waives protocol fees during the launch period.