Aster’s new Layer 1 combines speed and privacy to reduce trading risks and limit exposure in onchain markets.
Aster has launched its own Layer 1 blockchain, aiming to improve how onchain derivatives trading works. The network focuses on speed and privacy, two areas where traders often struggle. Competition among perpetual DEXs remains strong, especially as users look for better execution and protection. Early market reaction suggests growing interest in Aster’s approach.
Aster Rolls Out 100,000 TPS Blockchain to Power Private Onchain Trading
Aster, a perps DEX backed by Changpeng Zhao’s family office YZi Labs, shared the update on Tuesday via X. The new chain is built to fix what the team describes as the “transparency trap” in DeFi, where visible trades can expose users to risk.
As the lotus lives in water, where no trace will remain.
Leave nothing behind. Trade on Aster Chain. pic.twitter.com/GWe4iA7Uhx
— Aster 🥷 (@Aster_DEX) March 17, 2026
To address this, the network combines zero-knowledge encryption with a stealth address system. As a result, each transaction can pass through a one-time wallet address, making it hard to link activity back to a user. At the same time, trades remain verifiable onchain, even with privacy turned on by default.
Speed is another key focus. Aster Chain targets 50-millisecond block times and up to 100,000 transactions per second. It also removes gas fees, potentially lowering trading costs. In comparison, Solana handles around 65,000 transactions per second with 0.39-second block times.
Native Token Gains After Introduction of Stealth Trading Layer 1 Network
According to Aster CEO Leonard, open visibility between traders creates unfair conditions. He explained that exposed positions can lead to front-running and other forms of exploitation. With this design, the network aims to reduce those risks at a deeper level.
In addition, Aster introduced a “viewer pass” feature. This allows users to share access to their transaction data when needed. For example, traders can grant visibility for audits or partnerships without making everything public.
“Aster Chain is the only architecture that treats privacy as a fundamental requirement for a fair market, neutralizing predatory attacks at the base layer,” Leonard said.
Although onchain perps trading has slowed since late last year, Aster remains one of the more active platforms. Its trading volume is still close to that of competitors like Lighter and EdgeX, according to market data. Meanwhile, Hyperliquid, the largest perps DEX, has seen increased activity linked to oil-related trades during tensions in the Middle East.
Following the announcement, the ASTER token rose by as much as 8%. It is now trading near $0.76, up over 5% on the day.
On release, the chain supports deposits from BNB Chain, Arbitrum, Ethereum, and Solana. Looking ahead, the team plans to roll out more features in stages, including public staking for ASTER holders later this week, as well as a partner program.
