Aster (ASTER), the native token of the decentralized derivatives platform Aster, has delivered one of the most spectacular debuts of 2025.
Launched at just $0.02 during its token generation event (TGE) on September 17, 2025, Aster stunned traders by climbing to $2 within four days.
This rapid surge of 9,900% briefly pushed its market capitalization to $3.3 billion. Consequently, it secured its place as one of the most remarkable token launches in recent memory.
Even after cooling to $1.59 earlier today, Aster’s growth story continues to attract the attention of both retail investors and institutional players.
Bold New Approach to Derivatives
Aster powers a multi-chain perpetual DEX developed by YZi Labs (formerly Binance Labs). Unlike conventional platforms, it introduces features such as hidden orders and leverage up to 1001x, targeting professional traders.
The exchange is backed by PancakeSwap and positions itself as a direct competitor to Hyperliquid, the market leader in decentralized derivatives.
The Zhao Factor
The rapid rise of ASTER has been fueled by Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the influential former CEO of Binance. Zhao has openly endorsed the project, describing its TGE as a “strong start” and encouraging developers to keep innovating.
On September 19, Zhao disclosed on X (formerly Twitter) that Aster had become the second-largest holder of BSC-USDT, behind only Binance itself.
According to Arkham Intelligence data, Aster’s wallet holds $131 million in USDT, while Binance’s hot wallet leads with $236 million.
This endorsement significantly boosted investor confidence. Zhao’s ongoing association with YZi Labs has also added further legitimacy to the project, ensuring it is not dismissed as just another speculative token launch.
From ApolloX to Aster: A Strategic Rebrand
Aster’s rise is not happening in isolation. The project has roots going back to 2021, when it launched as ApolloX, an early decentralized derivatives exchange. In late 2024, ApolloX merged with Astherus, leading to a complete rebrand as Aster.
The transition saw ApolloX’s original token, APX, being swapped for ASTER during the TGE, rewarding early supporters with substantial windfalls.
For context, blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain revealed that one investor saw a $226,000 APX position transform into over $7.7 million after conversion.
Trading Volumes and Market Competition
Despite being in an early stage, Aster has already secured a foothold in decentralized derivatives trading.
According to DeFiLlama, Aster processed $3.67 billion in trading volume in the past 24 hours. This achievement places it among the top decentralized derivatives platforms.
However, the scale of competition is evident. Rival platform Hyperliquid processed $12.8 billion over the same period.
Analysts See Further Upside
Despite stiff competition, analysts remain optimistic about Aster’s trajectory. In a post on X, a prominent crypto trader, Marcell, suggested that the token could reach $4, implying a potential 151% upside from current levels.
DisClamier: This content is informational and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author's personal opinions and do not reflect The Crypto Basic opinion. Readers are encouraged to do thorough research before making any investment decisions. The Crypto Basic is not responsible for any financial losses.
