Crypto Giant ASTER Faces October Test: Volume Dominance vs. Massive Token Unlock
SINGAPORE – October 3, 2025 – Decentralized perpetual futures exchange Aster ($ASTER) has shattered records to claim the top spot for monthly trading volume, but its rapid ascent is set to be tested by a looming token unlock that could introduce hundreds of millions of dollars in new supply to the market.
According to data released yesterday, the burgeoning decentralized finance (DeFi) sector for perpetual futures trading surpassed $1 trillion in monthly volume for the first time in September. Leading this surge was Aster, which captured an astonishing $493.6 billion in perpetual futures volume, securing a dominant market share of roughly 43%.
Volume Crown for Aster, Hyperliquid Slips
The September figures mark a major shakeup in the "Perp DEX Meta," with Aster decisively overtaking the former segment leader, Hyperliquid. Hyperliquid saw its monthly volume drop to approximately $280 billion, even as the entire sector grew by nearly 50% month-over-month.
Aster's explosive growth is attributed to its innovative features, including a dual-mode system offering both beginner-friendly "Simple Mode" (with up to 1001x leverage) and advanced "Pro Mode" with dark pools for MEV-resistant trading, along with its multi-chain support across BNB Chain, Ethereum, and Solana. Rumors of backing from former Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) through YZi Labs have also fueled significant market hype and adoption.
The $325 Million Supply Test Looms
Despite its volume dominance, the ASTER token faces a critical test that could determine the sustainability of its price run. The platform’s initial rapid price appreciation—soaring over 2,000% since its Token Generation Event (TGE) on September 17th—has seen the token currently trade around the $1.85 to $1.95 range.
The primary concern is the scheduled release of 183.1 million ASTER tokens on October 17th. This unlock, estimated to be worth approximately $325 million, represents a significant 11% of the token's current market capitalization. The impending supply shock has triggered market jitters, with some analysts warning of potential selling pressure.
"The $325 million unlock is a make-or-break moment for ASTER," said a decentralized finance analyst. "While the $1 billion daily trading volume suggests the market has the liquidity to absorb the new supply, it will ultimately test whether Aster’s fundamentals—its market share and fee generation—are strong enough to withstand it."
Market Reaction and Technical Outlook
In the immediate term, the ASTER token has been showing technical strength, trading higher today as it breaks out of a descending parallel channel that formed after its all-time high of approximately $2.44 in late September.
Technical analysts are watching the $1.95 resistance area closely. A decisive break above this level is seen as a confirmation that the recent correction is over, potentially paving the way for a rally to a new target around $3.00 by the end of October. However, a failure to hold support, particularly below the $1.60 mark, could lead to a deeper correction.
In addition to the token unlock, the market is also monitoring the conclusion of Aster's Season 2 airdrop on October 5th and rampant speculation regarding a potential Binance spot listing, fueled by on-chain transfers of ASTER tokens to Binance-linked wallets observed earlier this week.
"Aster has clearly demonstrated product-market fit by flipping Hyperliquid's volume," concluded the analyst. "But the next two weeks will be about whether the financial engineering of the tokenomics can support the platform's incredible operational success."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Aster ($ASTER)?
Aster is a new decentralized exchange (DEX) specializing in perpetual futures and spot trading. Its native token, $ASTER, is used for governance, staking rewards, and trading fee discounts.
How did Aster become the market leader?
Aster surpassed Hyperliquid by recording $493.6 billion in perpetual DEX volume in September 2025. Its success is attributed to its dual-mode trading platform, high leverage options, and multi-chain liquidity support across BNB Chain, Ethereum, and Solana.
What is the "token unlock" and why does it matter?
A token unlock is when previously restricted tokens become available to be sold or traded. A major unlock of 183.1 million ASTER tokens, valued at $325 million, is scheduled for October 17th. This significant increase in circulating supply can create heavy selling pressure and volatility.
Is there a risk of a price drop?
Yes. While the platform's high daily trading volume suggests the market is liquid enough to absorb the new supply, the massive October 17th unlock and high token concentration in a few large wallets pose a significant risk of a sharp price correction if large holders decide to sell.
What are the key price levels to watch in October?
Analysts are focused on the $1.95 resistance level. A break above this point could signal a move toward the $3.00 area. Conversely, a drop below the $1.60 support level could trigger a more sustained downturn.