Lighter, the decentralized perpetual exchange, has unveiled a new staking feature for its native token, LIT, to strengthen its platform’s liquidity offerings. This update introduces staking as a key utility, starting with the Lighter Liquidity Pool (LLP). Users are now required to stake LIT to deposit into the LLP, with a 1:10 staking ratio, where each LIT staked unlocks deposits of up to 10 USDC.
Staking LIT Enhances Liquidity Pool Access and User Rewards
The change takes effect immediately for new participants, while existing depositors are granted a two-week grace period, ending on January 28. During this time, they can maintain their positions without staking LIT. After the grace period, staked LIT will become mandatory to keep funds in the pool. Lighter explained that this move aims to better align the interests of LIT holders and LLP participants, improving the platform’s risk-adjusted returns.
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
In addition to liquidity access, staking LIT offers further benefits. Users who stake at least 100 LIT will enjoy zero fees for withdrawals and transfers. Stakers will also earn yield, though the APR has not yet been disclosed. Lighter also plans to adjust premium fees for market makers and high-frequency traders in the coming weeks. However, discounts will be available for those who stake LIT, ensuring that retail traders continue to face minimal fees.
Since its launch in October, Lighter has quickly gained traction in the perpetuals market, with a reported $200 billion in monthly trading volume as of December. With this new staking feature, the exchange aims to enhance liquidity management while further solidifying its position in the competitive decentralized exchange landscape.
Expanding Staking Benefits and Platform Growth
Beyond the liquidity pool, Lighter’s new staking feature is expected to enhance community engagement and reward active platform users. As the platform grows, Lighter plans to apply similar staking mechanics to additional public pools, aligning with its broader goal of democratizing on-chain hedge funds. The integration of staking into its ecosystem signals Lighter’s commitment to providing users with more opportunities for yield generation and participation in decentralized finance.
With a new mobile app launch, staking support will soon be available to mobile users as well. As Lighter continues to innovate, its focus on staking and liquidity features sets the stage for further growth in the DeFi space.