Injective is a Cosmos‑SDK Layer‑1 with on‑chain order books, zero‑gas trading and a frequent batch auction that mitigates MEV. Its built‑in Ethereum bridge lets users bring ERC‑20s without custodial risk, and the WasmX module supports CosmWasm smart contracts. INJ holders can stake or participate in governance that controls upgrades like the 2024 Volan hard fork which added liquid staking.