Lighter Exchange Introduces Mandatory Staking for Liquidity Pool Access

Lighter introduces mandatory staking for liquidity pool access.

Perp-DEX Lighter has implemented staking of its native token LIT. This feature has become a key requirement for accessing the platform’s products, including the Lighter Liquidity Pool (LLP).

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

Users must now lock coins at a 1:10 ratio to deposit into LLP. Depositing 1 LIT allows up to 10 USDC to be added to the pool. This requirement is effective immediately for new participants.

Existing stakers have been granted a grace period until January 28, during which they can maintain their positions without additional conditions.

The project team stated that this innovation aligns the interests of token holders and liquidity providers, and will improve risk-adjusted returns. Similar mechanics will be introduced for other public pools in the future.

Those who lock at least 100 LIT in staking are exempt from withdrawal and transfer fees. Interest accrual is also provided, though the exact annual yield has yet to be disclosed by developers. The feature will be available in the mobile app in the coming days.

Additionally, the exchange announced changes to fees for market makers and high-frequency traders. Base fees will increase, but staking LIT will offer a discount. Trading will remain free for retail users.

At the time of writing, the price of LIT is $2.07, down 6% over the past day.

Back in December, Lighter conducted a LIT giveaway totaling $675 million. The event ranked among the top ten largest airdrops in the history of the crypto industry.