Ethereum layer2 Zero Network, which specialised in gas-fee-free transactions, will end operations after 18 months, The Block reported on May 21.

Zero Network's team posted on social media platform X that it would shut down Zero Network and focus on the Zerion API and wallet, the report said.

Zero Network launched its mainnet in November 2024. The team said it built Zero Network as an EVM-compatible, fully gas-fee-free rollup to simplify user experience and promote mass adoption, but operating an independent blockchain was not the right path to achieve that. It added it would focus resources where it can have the biggest impact on users who use the product every day.

The team said user assets are safe and advised users to move their assets by the end of July. The bridge for sending assets to Zero Network has already been suspended.

Cross-chain infrastructure startup Everclear also said on May 21 that it would shut down its core UI, protocol, foundation and research institute organisations. On May 20, Ethereum infrastructure firm Syndicate Labs and cryptocurrency card game Fantasy.top said they would end operations. Several protocols cited unfavourable market conditions as the reason for halting operations.