Cosmos is a cross-chain protocol that is working to establish a standardized way for blockchains to inter-operate. It has been called the internet of blocchains. Cosmos is building a standardized protocol for multiple blockchains to operate freely together, and allow transfers of value between them. Cosmos is made up of a network of blocckhains called zones. Each of these zones will be powered by a the Tendermint consensus protocol. Cosmos will act as a hub, that ties the zones together and manages their coordination. The Cosomos token called ATOM was released in an ICO that raised $53 million, but it will not be traded until the platform is launched.

NIX is developing a cross-chain protocol with an emphasis on privacy. Their platform will be powered by the NIX coin, and will allow users to exchange supported coins with atomic swaps. Nix hopes to eliminate the need for centralized exchanges with their DEX manager. The platform is based on the Ghost Protocol, which uses elements of Zercoin, and integrates the Tor network to provide enhanced security and privacy for users. NIX allows developers create and attach their own networks to the NIX network as sidechains. The cross-chain platform has a Proof-of-Work consensus mechanism.