Argo: Pioneering Bridge Connects Joystream to BASE Network
Argo marks a significant milestone: the first-ever bridge linking Joystream to the broader blockchain landscape. While Base is the first EVM chain we're bridging to, the bridge's architecture lays the groundwork for possible connections to additional EVM chains, further expanding Joystream's reach and interoperability.
Argo Features
The Argo bridge is a cross-chain token bridge that allows users to transfer JOY tokens between Joystream and Base networks. Even though those are the only networks supported at the moment, the bridge can be generalized to support bridging between any Substrate/EVM chains. For more details, see the architecture document.
- DAO Governance: Operated by the Joystream DAO, ensuring community oversight and control. The DAO governs the bridge and assigns operators responsible for running it. (proposal 961)
- Security: The bridge deploys a number of security mechanisms to make sure it's as safe as possible and still usable.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple and intuitive design for seamless token transfers.
How to Use Argo
To start using the Argo bridge, visit: https://bridge.joystream.org
The ERC20 token contract address is:
0x8761155c814c807cD3CcD15B256D69D3C10f198C (proposal 964)
USDC/JoystreamERC20 pair is available on Uniswap v3:
Initial liquidity pool was funded by the DAO (proposals 977, 978, 979 and 994)
Why BASE
The choice of Base as our first bridging destination was made through Joystream DAO governance process (proposal 902). After extensive discussions involving the Council, Builders, various leads, and JSG, the community explored options including Ethereum L1, different Ethereum L2s, Solana and others.
Base (Ethereum L2) was ultimately chosen for the following reasons:
- Comparable parameters with other Ethereum L2s in terms of TVL, transaction costs, and security
- Strong focus on SocialFi projects, aligning with Joystream's vision
Why This Matters
Argo is the first-ever bridge to connect the Joystream protocol to the wider web3 world. This milestone opens up new possibilities for JOY token holders and the Joystream ecosystem. By linking Joystream to Base, Argo paves the way for increased liquidity, broader adoption, and enhanced utility for JOY tokens.
No blockchain is an isolated island, and Joystream is no different — but user security and experience remain our top priorities. Stay tuned for upcoming updates about Joystream's interoperability initiatives!
Disclaimer
All forward  looking statements, estimates and commitments found in this blog post  should be understood to be highly uncertain, not binding and for which  no guarantees of accuracy or reliability can be provided. To the fullest extent permitted by law, in no event shall Joystream, Jsgenesis or our affiliates, or any of our directors, employees, contractors, service providers or agents have any liability whatsoever to any person for any  direct or indirect loss, liability, cost, claim, expense or damage of any kind, whether in contract or in tort, including negligence, or  otherwise, arising out of or related to the use of all or part of this post, or any links to third party websites.