Lighter DEX Makes Staking Mandatory for Users

Lighter DEX, a decentralized exchange platform, has introduced a new feature requiring all users to stake its native token, LIT, to access liquidity pools

ContentsNew staking feature for LIT tokensGrace period for existing usersAdjusting fee tiers and yields for stakersLighter’s growing popularity and token priceThis move aims to increase engagement and align token holders with the platform’s goals. Users have until January 28 to adjust, after which staking will be compulsory to retain access to liquidity pools.

New staking feature for LIT tokens

Lighter DEX’s native token, LIT, launched last month and has quickly become central to the platform’s functionality. The platform staked 50% of its LIT supply, including airdrops and incentives for future programs

The newly introduced mandatory staking system means that users must stake LIT tokens to use the liquidity pools (LLPs). A 1:10 deposit ratio allows one staked LIT to unlock up to 10 USDC in deposits.

The platform has made staking a core utility feature for accessing its liquidity pools, starting with the Lighter Liquidity Pool. This change is part of an effort to enhance the integration between token holders and liquidity providers. It’s also seen as a way to improve risk-adjusted returns for liquidity providers on the platform.

We are rolling out staking of LIT on Lighter! Here we will describe the initial utility from staking and how it will affect the Lighter ecosystem. pic.twitter.com/5NC8b4utuv

— Lighter (@Lighter_xyz) January 14, 2026

Grace period for existing users

Existing LIT token holders have until January 28 to begin staking. After this deadline, they must stake their LIT tokens to maintain access to liquidity pools. Lighter DEX expects this change to lead to greater alignment between LIT holders and liquidity providers

Additionally, the platform plans to replicate this staking mechanism across public pools to democratize on-chain hedge fund strategies.

Staking LIT will also bring other benefits, including fee discounts. Lighter DEX will adjust its fee structure for market makers and high-frequency traders in the coming weeks

The new staking system promises to introduce fee discounts, with staking 100 LIT unlocking zero fees for withdrawals and transfers. This will be an important consideration for users looking to minimize transaction costs.

Adjusting fee tiers and yields for stakers

Lighter DEX is also set to detail new premium fee tiers for trading firms. These changes will help firms adjust their algorithms in line with the new staking requirements. However, retail trading will remain free for the time being

Staking LIT will unlock yields for users, and the platform will begin publishing the annual percentage rate (APR) once it goes live. The APR will be determined based on the staking rights granted to premium users, providing more opportunities for stakers to benefit from their holdings.

Lighter’s growing popularity and token price

Lighter DEX has seen significant growth since launching its public mainnet in October 2025. The platform reported approximately $200 billion in trading volume in December, outpacing competitors like Aster and Hyperliquid. For January 2026, the platform has recorded $54.9 billion in trading volume so far.

However, despite its success, LIT’s token price has seen some volatility. After its initial surge to $2.62 following its launch, the price has dropped to around $1.88 at the time of publication, marking a 12% decrease. Despite this, Lighter DEX’s market cap stands at $469 million, with the token reaching an all-time high (ATH) of $4.04 before experiencing a downward trend.

Lighter DEX’s mandatory staking feature for LIT token holders marks a new phase in the platform’s evolution. With a two-week grace period for existing users and the promise of future fee discounts, Lighter aims to strengthen its liquidity pool and enhance the overall user experience. The new staking system is expected to provide more rewards for users while aligning their interests with the platform’s long-term goals.