Threshold USDPrice

(THUSD)

Threshold USD (thUSD) is a decentralized borrowing protocol that enables users to mint thUSD stablecoins by depositing high-quality assets like tBTC or Ethereum (ETH) as collateral. As a core product of the Threshold Network, it functions as an over-collateralized stablecoin, providing a way for users to access liquidity without having to sell their underlying holdings. This allow holders to maintain their long-term exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum while utilizing a stable asset for various needs within the digital asset ecosystem.

Unlike centralized stablecoins that rely on traditional financial institutions, thUSD is fully decentralized and immutable. It stands out from other decentralized alternatives by offering interest-free borrowing and focusing on the use of "pristine" assets like Bitcoin via the trustless tBTC bridge. This design allows users to leverage their Bitcoin holdings in a permissionless manner on the Ethereum network, ensuring that the protocol remains transparent and resistant to censorship compared to traditional stablecoin models.

The protocol is designed to be highly cost-effective, charging only a one-time loan origination fee, which is typically 0.5%. There are no ongoing interest rates, making it an attractive option for long-term liquidity. To borrow, users must maintain a Minimum Collateral Ratio (MCR) of 110%. This means for every $100 of thUSD borrowed, the user's Vault must hold at least $110 worth of collateral. Users can reclaim their original assets at any time by simply repaying the debt and the initial fee.

Stability is maintained through three key mechanisms: redemptions, over-collateralization, and arbitrage. Users have the right to redeem 1 thUSD for $1.00 worth of the underlying collateral directly through the protocol, creating a firm price floor. Additionally, every thUSD is backed by more than its value in volatile assets. If the market price deviates below the peg, arbitrageurs are incentivized to purchase thUSD at a discount to redeem it for a profit, which naturally drives the price back toward the target value.

The Stability Pool is a decentralized safety net funded by users who provide thUSD to ensure the protocol remains solvent. When a borrower’s collateral ratio falls below the 110% threshold, the Stability Pool is used to "buy" and cancel the debt. In return for providing this security, Stability Providers receive the liquidated collateral at a discounted rate. This mechanism ensures that all thUSD in circulation remains fully backed, even during periods of high volatility, by automatically handling liquidations without relying on traditional market buyers.

Liquidation occurs if a Vault's collateral ratio drops below 110%, resulting in the loss of collateral to the Stability Pool. Furthermore, the protocol includes a "Recovery Mode" that triggers if the Total Collateral Ratio of the entire system falls below 150%. During this period, the liquidation threshold rises to 150%, meaning even previously safe positions could be at risk. While Stability Providers typically profit from liquidations, a extreme market crash could theoretically cause collateral prices to fall faster than the protocol can liquidate, representing a potential risk to participants.