TL;DR
- Mainnet Launch: Aster prepares to transition its layer 1 chain from testing to full production in March, following testnets that attracted more than 50,000 participants.
- Market Momentum: ASTER rallied after its DEX processed over $3 billion in 24‑hour volume, with trading activity rising 27% and broader perpetual DEX markets showing strong demand.
- Technical Setup: The token broke above a five‑month trendline and approaches resistance near $0.72, though analysts warn that sustained strength is needed to confirm the breakout, as a February 17 token unlock could add supply pressure.
Aster’s native token ASTER is gaining momentum as anticipation builds for the project’s dedicated layer 1 mainnet launch in March. The token recently traded at $0.0745 after rising more than 9% in 24 hours, supported by renewed activity across the decentralized exchange and growing interest in the network’s infrastructure roadmap. The team confirmed that the mainnet rollout will shift Aster Chain from testing into full production following multiple testnet phases that began in late 2025 and expanded to more than 50,000 participants by early February 2026.
https://twitter.com/Aster_DEX/status/2021783039936958714
Mainnet Launch Marks a Major Milestone for Aster’s Roadmap
The upcoming mainnet deployment is central to the DEX’s 2026 strategy, which includes integrating fiat on‑ and off‑ramps and offering tools for developers building on its application‑specific blockchain. The team reiterated its commitment to community‑driven upgrades, governance features powered by the ASTER token, and expanded staking mechanisms. The DEX also aims to broaden its synthetic markets by introducing perpetual contracts tied to real‑world assets such as stocks, extending its reach beyond crypto‑native derivatives.
DEX Activity Surges as Traders Favor Non‑Custodial Platforms
Aster’s perp DEX has benefited from a broader shift toward non‑custodial trading. Perpetual DEX volume nearly tripled last year, climbing from about $4 trillion to more than $12 trillion, with roughly $7.9 trillion generated in 2025 alone. Monthly volumes surpassed $1 trillion in October and November and remained just below that level in December, surpassing competitors like Hyperliquid. This growth coincided with increased regulatory scrutiny on CEXs, prompting traders to seek platforms that allow leveraged exposure without surrendering asset control.
ASTER Price Reacts to Volume Spike and On‑Chain Activity
On February 10, ASTER climbed more than 10% to around $0.66 after the exchange processed over $3 billion in 24‑hour volume. Trading volume for the token rose 27%, reflecting heightened participation. High on‑chain activity has historically aligned with stronger token demand, though traders are monitoring a scheduled February 17 token unlock that could introduce short‑term supply pressure.
The token recently broke above a five‑month descending trendline after holding support near $0.59. Rising volume and open interest confirmed the move, with the next technical level near $0.72. Analysts note that sustained trading above the breakout region is needed to validate the shift; otherwise, the price could revisit support zones. For now, ASTER trades near local highs as the market watches whether the mainnet launch and derivatives activity can support a longer‑term recovery.
