Perp DEX Aster to Launch Native Blockchain With Zero Fees

Aster, a popular decentralized perpetual exchange built on the BNB Chain, is preparing to launch its dedicated blockchain network.

AB Kuai Dong, a crypto key opinion leader (KOL), shared details of the development via X. In an interview with Aster’s CEO Leonard at an event hall in Jeju Island, the crypto KOL disclosed that the crypto perp platform is working on a “privacy public chain.” The blockchain network will have zero gas fees, reducing transaction costs for traders.

Aster to Debut Native Network

Currently, Aster runs on the layer-1 BNB Chain. It is also available on other blockchain networks, such as Solana, Ethereum, and Arbitrum. Launching a native blockchain would allow Aster to offer a privacy-focused derivatives trading experience to users. It would also enable the Aster team to retain more control and oversight over on-chain activities.

It is worth noting that launching the Aster Chain is part of Aster’s roadmap. This would put it on par with its rival, Hyperliquid, which runs on its own layer-1 network.

Currently, it remains unknown when the blockchain debut will happen. It is also uncertain whether the blockchain would be a layer-1 network of its own or built as a layer-2 scaling solution on an existing blockchain, such as its closely-affiliated BNB Chain.

Since its debut in late 2024, Aster has grown into one of the leading decentralized perpetual trading platforms. Its key services include spot trading, derivatives trading, and 1001x leverage. With the support of Binance’s co-founder Changpeng Zhao and venture arm, YZi Labs, Aster rivaled Hyperliquid, ranking second-highest in daily fees at one point.

Still, Aster has had drawbacks along the way. For instance, the blockchain analytics platform DefiLlama delisted Aster from its platform due to concerns about wash trading.

More Services Underway

Aside from the blockchain, Aster’s CEO disclosed that traditional assets, such as futures contracts representing stock tokens, will be introduced to the Aster ecosystem.

The derivatives exchange will also partner with crypto platform Buidlpad to “provide a pre-market futures market for projects launching on it.” This way, traders can access market liquidity.