Relay is a multichain payments network that lets people and apps move and swap tokens across many blockchains in a single, simple flow.
As of November 11, 2025 (via their X bio), Relay reports 6M+ users, 60M+ transactions, and $8.5B+ in volume across 75+ chains/networks.
Relay combines fast, low-cost cross-chain execution via the open Relay Protocol, and DEX meta-aggregation (more on these in the next section).
You can use it to bridge assets between chains, make same-chain or cross-chain swaps, and pay for transactions with tokens you already hold.
Keep reading to learn more about Relay, how it works, why it’s useful, and how Plasma works with Relay to power stablecoin payments.
How Relay Works
Relay connects users to relayers who execute onchain actions across many chains, delivering instant fills and predictable costs.
Relay uses an intent-based model where users request a move, and relayers front capital on the destination chain, then settle later by rebalancing liquidity in the background, which keeps user flows fast.
An “intent” is a signed request for a result, like “send USD₮ to Ethereum”, and a “relayer” is a participant that performs the necessary transactions on your behalf so you don’t juggle multiple chains/steps.
Core components include the Depository, Oracle, Hub, and Vaults:
Depository contracts track deposits by accepting the user’s transfer on the origin chain and attaching an order ID so fills can be matched correctly.
Oracle and Hub components verify, attribute, and track orders/fills across chains.
Vaults provide liquidity that relayers can use and later refill.
Common Use Cases
Bridging & onboarding: move value between 75+ chains quickly; e.g., fund a rollup wallet from assets on another chain.
Swaps (same-chain & cross-chain): trade tokens on the current chain or across chains through a single, guided flow.
Call execution: let users pay for transactions with tokens on any chain (paired with gas sponsorship and rate guarantees for a smoother UX).
The Relay Stack
The Relay Stack has three parts: the Relay App, the Relay API, and the Relay Protocol. They work together to help move value crosschain with simple, clear onchain completion.
The Relay App is a straightforward interface for moving assets across chains. For example, you can swap ETH on Ethereum for SOL on Solana in one flow.
The Relay API lets product teams add crosschain payments with one integration. It provides quotes, status updates, and sensible defaults that keep the experience consistent.
The Relay Protocol connects users with relayers who complete onchain actions. It focuses on keeping costs low, high availability, and clear completion signals.
