> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.tier1.exchange/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.tier1.exchange/readme.md). # About Tier 1 ## What is Tier 1? *** Tier 1 is a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain and perpetuals exchange purpose-built for deterministic, ultra-low-latency trading. It combines institutional-grade performance with open, transparent infrastructure. Built from the ground up for high-frequency and professional traders, Tier 1 delivers sub-100 ms finality through colocation, optimized consensus, and deterministic execution across the entire stack. Every trade, every tick, every order is processed with precision and predictability. ## Core Team *** Our core team consists of engineers, traders, and technologists with deep experience in low-latency networks, exchange architecture, and blockchain infrastructure. We believe the future lies in DeFi, and much of our experience in centralized exchanges (CEXes) can be applied to on-chain solutions, enabling us to create a superior product. Tier 1 is backed by a select group of 20+ seasoned investors and advisors from BSO, Deloitte, Morgan Stanley, Cisco, Hedera, and Tokinvest. This independence empowers us to prioritize long-term growth and sustainability, free from the pressures of short-term gains. We stand firmly with our community. ## Why Tier 1? *** Speed is only part of the equation. Determinism is the foundation. Traditional blockchains rely on probabilistic finality, which introduces latency and uncertainty. Tier 1 replaces this with deterministic, real-time finality designed for trading workloads. By combining colocation-grade networking, BFT consensus, and low-latency data pathways, Tier 1 ensures that every transaction settles precisely as intended. This architecture enables the next generation of decentralized trading: trustless, transparent, and institutionally performant. ## Message from Steve Murray, CEO & Co-Founder *** > We built Tier 1 because the next era of trading demands both speed and certainty. > > Traders want predictable execution. Institutions want transparent infrastructure. DeFi should deliver both. > > Tier 1 is designed to achieve deterministic finality at the speed of global markets, without compromising decentralization. > > The mission is simple: give everyone access to institutional-grade performance in an open, permissionless environment. > > We are not building another DEX. We are redefining how trading infrastructure should perform on-chain. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.tier1.exchange/readme.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.