Ether.fi, a leading decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol, is streamlining its cross-chain infrastructure by ending weETH bridging on several networks with low activity. This change, effective June 30, 2026, reflects a broader industry focus on security and efficient capital allocation.

Strategic Shift in Cross-Chain Operations

The affected networks include Scroll, Swell, Bera, zkSync, Mode, Blast, Morph, and Sonic. Ether.fi advises users with weETH on these chains to migrate their assets to Ethereum or other supported networks before the deadline. A manual recovery process will be available after June 30, 2026, with a 0.5 weETH fee.

Focus on Infrastructure Hardening

According to ether.fi, the decision to discontinue bridging on these networks is intended to “harden” its cross-chain infrastructure. By concentrating activity on fewer, more utilized networks, the protocol aims to reduce risk and simplify operations. The selection of these chains was based on usage metrics, total value locked (TVL), and integration within the ether.fi ecosystem.

Industry-Wide Trend Towards Security

Ether.fi anticipates further deprecations of bridging support on other chains, guided by similar criteria. This decision mirrors a wider industry reassessment of the risks associated with extensive cross-chain connectivity, particularly following recent security breaches.

Liquidity Concentration on Ethereum

Data from DefiLlama highlights a significant disparity in liquidity distribution. As of late April, ether.fi holds over $5.1 billion in TVL on Ethereum, compared to approximately $183 million on OP Mainnet. Chains like Scroll hold only a few hundred thousand dollars worth of weETH.

Recent Exploits Drive Security Measures

The recent rsETH-related exploit involving Kelp DAO underscored the potential for vulnerabilities to spread across interconnected DeFi protocols, including those utilizing platforms like Aave. This incident heightened concerns about the security of cross-chain bridges, frequently targeted by malicious actors. Ether.fi’s move is part of a larger industry recalibration, prioritizing robust security and deep liquidity over widespread multi-chain distribution.

By minimizing its attack surface and focusing resources on core liquidity hubs, ether.fi is adapting to a DeFi landscape where security and reliability are paramount. This represents a shift from rapid expansion to a more sustainable and secure model of development.