> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ontorium.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ontorium.io/ontorium-stack-overview/asset-layer.md).

# Asset Layer

The **Asset Layer** establishes the foundation of Ontorium,
 bringing real-world assets on-chain as verifiable and usable financial primitives.

This layer defines how real-world assets are structured, verified, and represented on-chain,
\
including their backing model, minting and redemption mechanisms, and reserve integrity.

It ensures that each asset maintains a clear and enforceable link to its underlying real-world value,
\
making it suitable for financial utilization across the stack.

Rather than serving as static representations,
 assets at this layer are designed to support continuous on-chain utilization,
 forming the basis for liquidity, credit, and broader financial activity.

The first asset introduced within the Asset Layer is **OXAU**,
 **a gold-backed** on-chain asset designed to combine real-world value with on-chain financial utility.

OXAU represents physical gold with verifiable backing, held in custody by an independent third-party custodian. It enables users to hold, transfer, and utilize gold as an on-chain financial asset.

It is designed not only for ownership,
 but for integration into lending, liquidity, and broader financial strategies within the Ontorium stack.

<figure><img src="/files/7TRvhP8qOIL5KAVeCxgT" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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