Ethena Labs, a prominent blockchain project, has announced a significant restructuring of its ENA token's tokenomics model. The key change involves the introduction of mandatory vesting requirements, aimed at promoting long-term investment among ENA token recipients.

Under the new policy, users receiving ENA tokens, particularly from initiatives like the Shard Campaign, must now lock at least 50% of their tokens using one of three designated methods: Ethena locking, PT-ENA on Pendle, or Symbiotic Restaking. This requirement is accompanied by a strict enforcement mechanism – users who fail to comply will have their unvested tokens redistributed among those who adhere to the vesting mandate. This redistribution process ensures fairness, as the forfeited tokens will not be retained by the Ethena team, its investors, or the foundation.

To facilitate a smooth transition, Ethena Labs will provide detailed instructions on navigating the new vesting system by June 23rd, coinciding with the weekly ENA vesting claim. This timeline allows users a brief period to familiarize themselves with the requirements and prepare for compliance.

Alongside the vesting changes, Ethena has introduced new staking options for ENA holders, further enhancing the token's utility within the project's broader financial ecosystem strategy. Users can now lock their ENA within Ethena for future rewards, participate in PT-ENA pools on Pendle Finance for a fixed annual percentage yield, or engage in generalized restaking pools. These staking options are particularly crucial as they secure cross-chain transfers of USDe, Ethena's stablecoin, ensuring enhanced transaction security and efficiency.

Ethena's roadmap highlights the integration of ENA into its forthcoming Ethena Chain, where staked ENA will play a vital role in securing the network, especially for cross-chain transfers verified through LayerZero's DVN network. Additionally, Ethena plans to utilize USDe as a gas token for various financial applications, with the potential for ENA holders to receive future airdrops from these initiatives.

Ethena Labs emphasizes its commitment to transparency, as evidenced by its Monthly Custodian Attestations for USDe. These reports, detailing the type and location of assets backing the stablecoin, are now provided by all integrated depositaries and are accessible on the Ethena governance forum. This move directly responds to growing demands for clarity and trust in asset-backed cryptocurrencies, as Ethena aims to maintain and build trust within its community and stakeholders.