Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I need to choose both a validator and a lock period when staking?

Aster Chain staking distributes rewards through two layers. The validator you select determines your Base APY, while the lock period determines your Loyalty Rewards weight. Both choices work together to determine your total staking rewards.

2. Does a new stake start earning rewards immediately?

No. New stakes, additional deposits, and lock extensions typically begin earning rewards from the next epoch.

3. Are rewards distributed in real time?

No. Rewards are settled once per Epoch, which currently occurs on a weekly basis. Each Epoch is seven days, running from Monday at 00:00 UTC to Sunday at 23:59 UTC.

4. What factors affect my staking rewards?

Your total rewards depend on several factors, including:

• The validator's transaction contribution

• The validator's commission rate

• Your share of the total stake within the validator

• Your lock period

• Your veASTER weight

• Network-wide staking participation and total Power

Because rewards are distributed proportionally, actual returns may vary depending on overall network conditions.

5. Can I add more $ASTER to an existing staking position?

Yes. You can increase your stake at any time. However, all staking positions share a unified lock period, meaning newly added tokens must follow the same unlock schedule as your existing stake.

6. Can I extend my lock period?

Yes. You may extend your lock duration to increase your veASTER weight, which can increase your share of Loyalty Rewards. When the lock period is extended, the new unlock date applies to your entire staking position.

7. Can I switch validators during staking?

Yes. Users can switch their delegated stake to a different validator at any time. The change takes effect in the next Epoch, after which rewards will begin accruing from the new validator.

8. Can I exit staking early?

Yes. Users may request to unlock their stake before the lock period ends. However, early exits trigger a penalty, which increases with the amount of time remaining in the lock period.

9. What happens to penalized tokens?

Penalized tokens are redistributed according to protocol rules. A portion is added to future staking reward pools, while another portion is allocated to the ecosystem fund.

This mechanism discourages short-term staking while benefiting long-term participants.

10. Will I be penalized if I exit after the lock period ends?

No. If you exit staking at or after the scheduled unlock time, no penalty is applied. Your principal and accumulated rewards can be withdrawn normally.