Aster Launches AOS-2 Framework for Perpetual Futures Listings With 1M ASTER Stake

Aster has launched AOS-2, expanding its open listing framework to perpetual futures while requiring eligible projects to stake 1 million ASTER tokens before seeking approval through an on-chain validator vote.

AOS-2 Extends Aster Listings to Perpetual Futures

Aster said Aster Open Standards Phase 2, known as AOS-2, is now live and extends the exchange’s listing process from spot markets to perpetual contracts. Eligible applicants can submit proposals to launch perpetual markets through a process that includes token staking, validator voting, risk configuration, and market setup.

Projects that meet the eligibility requirements must stake 1 million ASTER tokens for four years, with no option for early withdrawal during the lockup period. After the stake is committed, validators on Aster Chain vote on whether the proposed perpetual market can proceed to the next stage.

A successful vote sends the proposed market to Aster’s risk team, which sets leverage and other trading parameters before launch. Aster targets a T+1 listing after approval and completion of the required market configuration. Projects that fail to secure validator approval receive their entire ASTER stake back.

Validator Vote Determines Perpetual Market Approval

AOS-2 uses an on-chain voting process to determine which applications can move forward. Validators review eligible proposals and record their decisions on Aster Chain, while the rules governing applications and voting remain publicly available.

Approved projects must also complete risk configuration and secure market maker support before trading starts. Aster’s risk system determines leverage and other controls for each market rather than allowing applicants to choose these settings independently.

The framework follows AOS-1, which introduced Aster’s open listing structure for spot markets. AOS-1 focused on tokens already trading on Binance Spot or available through Binance Alpha, while AOS-2 brings the same broader listing model to perpetual futures markets.

Aster Requires Four-Year ASTER Token Lock

The 1 million ASTER staking requirement creates a four-year commitment for every successful AOS-2 applicant. Tokens remain locked throughout that period once a project receives approval, while rejected applications recover their stake without continuing through the listing process.

Aster introduced the framework as decentralized exchanges continue expanding their presence in perpetual futures trading. CoinGecko reported that perpetual DEXs increased their share of open interest from 3.5% in early 2025 to 13.6% in early 2026.

Open interest across leading perpetual DEXs also rose from $1.19 billion at the start of 2024 to $14.99 billion by the end of January 2026. Centralized platforms continued to control most perpetual trading activity during the period.

For active traders, choosing a liquid perpetual futures trading platform can help manage funding rates and reduce execution slippage.