> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cvnnt.gitbook.io/documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cvnnt.gitbook.io/documentation/introduction/why-use-covenant/stateful-onchain-btc-programmability-instead-of-trusted-entities.md). # Stateful onchain BTC programmability instead of trusted entities Covenant system provides algorithmic, onchain operational functionality for self-custody BTCFi operations and cross-chain native Bitcoin DeFi with no middlemen, wraps, bridges or other off-chain parts. With onchain verifiability, chain-agnostic bridgeless mechanics and stateful channels, Covenant turns Bitcoin’s UTXOs onto fully programmable, EVM-compatible onchain stateful objects while preserving Bitcoin’s security model end-to-end. ### Covenant system BTCFi opportunities vs. legacy solutions

What BTC users get	Centralized / stateless off-chain solutions (wraps, bridges, federations, etc.)	Covenant system
Earn yield, trade, lend, transfer	Yes	Yes
Use MetaMask and normal EVM dApps	Sometimes	Yes
Keep 100 % self-custody of actual BTC	No	Yes
Without wrapping	No	Yes
Without bridges or federations	No	Yes
Without operators or trusted middlemen	No	Yes
Real BTC instant release without delays	No	Yes (< 1 minute)
100% on-chain round-trip	No	Yes
Fully deterministic timings and operations	No	Yes