Aster Announces Exciting 2026 Roadmap with Layer-1 Blockchain Launch Plans

Decentralized perpetual exchange Aster has shared its roadmap for the first half of 2026, which includes the launch of Aster Chain—a specialized Layer-1 blockchain aimed at enhancing high-volume trading and expanding the platform’s infrastructure. With additional features like fiat on- and off-ramps and privacy options, Aster is poised to advance its services and user engagement significantly.

Key Takeaways

Aster is set to launch Aster Chain, its own Layer-1 blockchain, in Q1 2026.
The platform will introduce a developer toolkit called Aster Code for application deployment.
Key features will include fiat on- and off-ramps and privacy-enhancing technologies.
Staking and governance for the ASTER token will be introduced, allowing token holders greater influence.
The new blockchain aims to solve scalability and security issues in current derivatives trading.

Aster unveils 2026 roadmap, plans launch of layer-1 blockchain - 1

Aster Chain Launch Set for 2026

Aster, the decentralized perpetual exchange, has rolled out a roadmap for early 2026 detailing the launch of Aster Chain. This custom Layer-1 blockchain will support high-volume trading and bolster the platform’s infrastructure, as mentioned in a company statement.

The launch of Aster Chain is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, with internal testing expected to begin in late 2025. This groundbreaking blockchain will feature Aster Code, a developer toolkit designed to facilitate the deployment of applications on the network.

Moreover, the exchange will enable fiat on- and off-ramps through collaborations with third-party partners, allowing users to easily convert traditional currencies into cryptocurrencies.

🗺️ 2026 H1 Roadmap Reveal: What's Next for Aster
"2025 was about proving Aster can ship: we merged Astherus & ApolloX, launched multi-asset margin, released our mobile app, completed TGE, listed on major CEXs, and introduced features like Hedge Mode, Trade & Earn, and our buyback…"
— Aster (@Aster_DEX) December 4, 2025

Importance of the New Blockchain

The upcoming Layer-1 blockchain will incorporate privacy-enhanced features, including zero-knowledge options, along with an on-chain order book that will offer functionalities similar to those found in centralized exchanges. Aster also plans to implement staking and governance for the ASTER token later in the year, thus empowering token holders with greater control over the network.

The exchange is also set to introduce features for social trading and smart-money tracking, enabling users to monitor top-performing traders and observe live trades.

The development of this Layer-1 blockchain is aimed specifically at addressing the scalability and security issues that currently challenge derivatives trading on existing networks. The chain is crafted to facilitate high-volume perpetual trading while maintaining enhanced privacy and low transaction fees.

Currently, Aster operates as a multi-chain derivatives platform, and the establishment of its own blockchain marks a shift toward creating specialized infrastructure, rather than depending on existing blockchain networks.

In a recent update, Aster activated its Stage 4 buyback program eight days earlier than scheduled. The team reported that this early rollout is intended to "support holders during unstable market conditions," and the initiative has already gone live on-chain.