> 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?

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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

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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?

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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

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> We built Tier 1 because the next era of trading demands both speed and certainty.
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> Traders want predictable execution. Institutions want transparent infrastructure. DeFi should deliver both.
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> Tier 1 is designed to achieve deterministic finality at the speed of global markets, without compromising decentralization.
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> The mission is simple: give everyone access to institutional-grade performance in an open, permissionless environment.
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> We are not building another DEX. We are redefining how trading infrastructure should perform on-chain.