Blockchain infrastructure startup Arch Labs has secured $13 million in Series A funding to develop a native Bitcoin virtual machine. This innovative initiative aims to bring smart contract capabilities to the Bitcoin network, enhancing its functionality and opening new possibilities for decentralized applications. The company will leverage this investment to create a platform that allows developers to create and deploy smart contracts directly on the Bitcoin blockchain. Pantera Capital, a prominent cryptocurrency investment firm, led this funding round. Arch Labs’ valuation is now $200 million, reflecting increased investor confidence in the potential of Bitcoin beyond its traditional role as digital currency.