What Is Semantic Layer (42) and How Does It Work?
The Semantic Layer protocol is designed as a next-generation execution layer for decentralized applications, offering what it calls Application-Controlled Execution (ACE). Rather than having dApps rely purely on the underlying blockchain’s ordering, validators or block builders, Semantic Layer gives the dApp itself control over how transactions are ordered, bundled, and executed.
With this model, the protocol enables so-called “MEV internalization,” that is, the value that would normally go to external searchers or block builders via miner/extractor value can instead be captured by the dApp or its ecosystem. At the same time, Semantic Layer supports off-chain aggregation of transactions to increase throughput and then on-chain settlement to maintain composability and security.
The native token 42 plays a role in the ecosystem as the incentive and coordination mechanism for this layer. It underpins the infrastructure enabling dApps to implement custom execution policies, integrate external service outputs, e.g., oracles,
AI agents, and scale without losing access to on-chain liquidity. In short: Semantic Layer sits between a dApp and the base chain, giving the dApp more control, more scalability, and more capture of value that was previously lost to generic ordering mechanisms.
When Did Semantic Layer Launch?
Semantic Layer was co-founded by Dex Chen and Daniel T. in 2023. The project raised a seed round of about $3 million on 8 October 2024, led by Figment Capital along with other investors like Hack VC and Fenbushi Capital. The token (ticker “42”) achieved its first major exchange listing on Binance Alpha, with trading and airdrop event scheduled for 27 October 2025.
Semantic Layer Roadmap
• Seed funding of $3 million secured on 8 October 2024
• Token listing & airdrop event: 27 October 2025 on Binance Alpha with 42/USDT perpetual futures launch the same day
• Development focus: implementation of the Application-Controlled Execution (ACE) infrastructure & MEV internalization capabilities.
• Equivalent “go live” or mainnet functionality timing: (Exact full rollout date not publicly detailed)
• Future: Expansion of agent-based execution (“42 Universe”), cross-chain integrations, ecosystem incentives.
What Is the 42 Token Utility?
The 42 token serves as the native utility token of the Semantic Layer ecosystem. It powers the “42 Universe” where AI agents, dApps and protocols can interact with the platform’s services, such as custom transaction sequencing, bundled execution and MEV internalisation. In addition, 42 is used to participate in governance, stake to support network infrastructure, and align incentives across developers and users by capturing value that previously flowed to external extractors.
Simply deposit 42 on the supported BEP-20 network, wait for the trading time to open, and then place a buy or sell order on the spot market. You can trade 42 on the
BingX spot market via the
42/USDT pair once it goes live.
What Is Semantic Layer Tokenomics?
Semantic Layer (42) has a fixed total supply of 1 billion tokens, with no plans for additional minting. The project raised approximately US$3 million in a seed round on October 8, 2024, led by Figment Capital, Fenbushi Capital, and Hack VC.
42 Token Allocation
• Seed & Private Investors: 15% — allocated to early backers such as Figment Capital, Fenbushi Capital, and Hack VC.
• Team & Advisors: 20% — reserved for founders and core contributors, subject to multi-year vesting.
• Ecosystem and Partnerships: 25% — supports dApp integrations, cross-chain collaborations, and AI-agent development.
• Community and Airdrops: 15% — distributed through listing-related events and user incentive programs.
• Staking and Rewards: 15% — incentivizes validators, delegators, and network participants.
• Treasury and Reserves: 10% — maintained for future liquidity, operations, and long-term sustainability.
How to Claim Semantic Layer Airdrop
The project launched a promotional
airdrop in conjunction with the listing of 42 on Binance’s “Alpha” platform where eligible users could claim a fixed amount of 42 tokens (200 tokens per claim) by redeeming “Alpha Points”. To qualify, users needed to hold at least 210 Alpha Points when the event opened; the threshold then dropped by 15 points per hour until the pool was exhausted.
The trading listing and airdrop event commenced on October 27 2025 at 10:00 UTC. Users had until October 28 2025 (24 hours after the start) to claim via the Alpha Events page.
How to Claim $42 Token Airdrop
• Go to the Binance Alpha Events page at or shortly after the listing time.
• Ensure you have at least 210 Alpha Points, or the current threshold if it has decreased.
• Click “Claim” to redeem 200 42 tokens; this will consume 15 points.
• Confirm your claim within 24 hours to avoid forfeiture.
How Does Semantic Layer Compare to Other Infrastructure and MEV Projects?
The Semantic Layer (ticker 42) protocol distinguishes itself from many other infrastructure and MEV-related projects by offering Application-Controlled Execution (ACE), which allows dApps to directly manage transaction ordering, bundling and conditions instead of relying purely on validators or sequencers. Many MEV-protocols focus on mitigating or capturing value at the block-proposer/sequencer layer, e.g., ad hoc auctions, relayer architecture, private mempools, but Semantic Layer aims to insert itself between the dApp and base chain, enabling the dApp to internalise MEV and define execution policies.
In comparison, other infrastructure projects may specialise in one slice of the stack, e.g., intent-based DEXs that protect users from MEV, or sequencer frameworks that delegate block building, but often don’t provide full dApp-level control over execution logic. For example, scholarship around MEV highlights how transaction re-ordering, bundling, and algo-driven searcher networks present externalities and centralisation risks. Semantic Layer’s approach is more holistic: it merges execution control, MEV capture/redistribution, and scalable bundling, which positions it as a more developer-centric and protocol-driven MEV infrastructure alternative.
What Blockchain Network Does Semantic Layer Operate on?
Semantic Layer (42) operates primarily on the
BNB Smart Chain (BEP-20) network, enabling fast, low-cost transactions and wide compatibility with
EVM-based wallets and dApps. Its smart contracts are deployed under the verified BSC address 0x834b…975822, ensuring transparency and interoperability within the broader Binance ecosystem. The project’s roadmap also outlines plans for cross-chain expansion, integrating with other EVM and modular Layer-1 networks to support multi-chain execution environments.
How to Store 42 Tokens Securely
The safest and most convenient way to store your 42 tokens is directly on BingX. When you buy or deposit 42 on the BingX Spot Market, your tokens are automatically held in a secure, exchange-managed wallet protected by BingX’s multi-layer security infrastructure, cold-storage reserves, and real-time
proof-of-reserves system. This option is ideal if you plan to trade frequently or monitor price movements, as it allows instant access to your 42 holdings without needing external wallet management.
If you prefer
self-custody, you can store 42 tokens in any BEP-20 compatible wallet such as
MetaMask,
Trust Wallet, or
Ledger hardware wallets. These wallets let you retain full control of your private keys and interact directly with dApps built on BNB Chain. Always verify the correct token contract address before transferring and consider using a hardware wallet for long-term storage to minimize risks from
phishing or compromised devices.
Is Semantic Layer (42) a Good Investment?
Semantic Layer tackles a high-value infrastructure niche by enabling decentralized applications to reclaim MEV (Maximal Extractable Value) through its Application-Controlled Execution model, positioning the 42 token at the heart of a potential AI-driven, cross-chain ecosystem.
With a 1 billion token supply, backing from prominent investors such as Figment Capital and Fenbushi Capital, and a listing on major exchanges including BingX, the project reflects growing institutional interest and ecosystem readiness. Moreover, its listing momentum and emerging utility offer early users exposure to adoption upside, though investors should remain aware of the speculative nature, unlock schedules, and broader market risks.