Lighter has rolled out staking for its native token LIT and made it a core requirement for access to the platform’s liquidity pool. Under the new structure, users who want to deposit into the Lighter Liquidity Pool (LLP) must first stake LIT at a 1:10 ratio, meaning each staked LIT unlocks deposits of up to 10 USDC.
LLP entry now depends on staking
The rule is already in effect for new participants. Existing depositors have been given a two-week grace period that runs until January 28, allowing them to keep current positions without staking during that window. Once the grace period ends, staking LIT becomes mandatory for funds that remain in the pool.
Lighter said the change is meant to align the interests of LIT holders and LLP participants more closely while improving risk-adjusted returns on the platform. The update turns staking from a token utility into a direct gate for liquidity access, changing how users interact with the pool.
Stakers with 100 LIT get zero transfer and withdrawal fees
The staking feature comes with other benefits beyond pool access. According to the platform, users who stake at least 100 LIT will receive zero fees on withdrawals and transfers. Stakers will also earn yield, though the platform has not disclosed the APR.
Lighter also said it plans to adjust premium fees for market makers and high-frequency traders in the coming weeks. Users who stake LIT will be eligible for discounts under that model, while retail traders are expected to continue facing low fees. No updated fee schedule has been published yet.
Platform extends staking as trading volume grows
Since launching in October, Lighter has expanded quickly in the perpetuals market. The platform reported $200 billion in monthly trading volume as of December. Bringing LIT staking into LLP is presented as part of its liquidity management strategy and a way to reinforce its position in the decentralized exchange market.
Lighter said similar staking mechanics are expected to be applied to additional public pools over time, in line with its stated goal of democratizing on-chain hedge funds. The company also noted that support for staking will be added to its upcoming mobile app. For now, the clearest shift is inside LLP, where staking, pool access, and fee perks are now directly connected.