The largest transaction in the history of the network was conducted via the Lightning Network., 2026/02/05 17:32:02

The digital brokerage Secure Digital Markets (SDM) transferred $1 million to the cryptocurrency exchange Kraken via the Lightning Network, a second-layer solution designed for scaling the Bitcoin network.

The transaction occurred on January 28 and was completed in 0.43 seconds using the Lightning infrastructure with the Bitcoin network tool Voltage. This infrastructure facilitates node management and provides liquidity in advance. SDM claims that this transfer marks the largest recorded transaction within the Lightning network, confirming the capability of executing substantial fully legal payments through the Lightning Network. The previous record for a single payment in the network was set in December 2025 with 1.24 BTC (approximately $140,000 at that time).

Voltage CEO Graham Krizek described the $1 million transaction as a demonstration that the Lightning Network can handle not only micropayments in Bitcoin but also meet the demands of large corporate users. At the end of 2023, the capacity of Lightning channels exceeded 5400 BTC, but by mid-2025, it had decreased to 4200 BTC. However, by December, the level reached a new historical high, surpassing 5600 BTC.

Tether CEO and Bitfinex CTO Paolo Ardoino referred to Lightning as a beneficial solution for Bitcoin holders. Initially, it began as an experiment with retail payments, but now the network successfully processes large transaction volumes for Bitfinex, Ardoino stated. He highlighted the low transaction costs and reduced strain on the blockchain as advantages of using the Lightning Network.

Last year, Ardoino promised to enable large transactions with USDT stablecoins through the Lightning Network. The entrepreneur explained that the limited number of validators in other second-layer solutions, particularly for the Ethereum network, complicates transaction execution.