XEC eCash Rank #196

eCash (XEC) is a Layer-1 digital cash network built by Bitcoin ABC, launched in November 2020 as a fork of the Bitcoin codebase. It operates as a proof-of-work chain that distinguishes itself by integrating the Avalanche consensus protocol alongside its core PoW layer, creating a hybrid Nakamoto/Avalanche architecture. This combination is intended to deliver properties uncommon in Bitcoin-derived networks, including near-instant transaction finality, staking rewards, support for subnets, and a governance model that allows protocol changes without contentious hard forks. The project positions itself within the broader Bitcoin ecosystem while pursuing scalability, with stated objectives including transaction throughput scaling toward millions of transactions per second, sub-three-second finality for payments, and a streamlined upgrade process. Categorized as a smart contract platform, Bitcoin fork, and PoW Layer-1 network, eCash is designed to function as a fast, programmable peer-to-peer electronic cash system that retains Bitcoin's foundational security model while extending it with additional consensus and governance capabilities.