Binance Discontinues BAYC and MAYC NFT Staking as APE Staking Mechanism Adjusted

Binance NFT, the non-fungible token platform operated by cryptocurrency exchange Binance, has announced the discontinuation of staking services for Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) and Mutant Ape Yacht Club (MAYC) NFTs effective August 1, 2025. The decision follows adjustments to the APE NFT staking mechanism, according to an official statement from the Binance team. All staked BAYC and MAYC NFTs will be automatically unstaked by August 1, 2025, with assets returned to user accounts by August 3, 2025. Post-unstaking, these NFTs will no longer generate staking rewards [1].

The move aligns with broader shifts in the NFT market, where demand for high-profile collections like BAYC and MAYC has waned since their 2021 peak. Analysts suggest the discontinuation reflects Binance’s strategic focus on projects with sustained user engagement, though the timing of the 2025 deadline remains unexplained. Community discussions have been limited, with reactions primarily centered on logistical concerns rather than broader market implications [1].

The announcement also highlights the evolving relationship between NFTs and utility-based token ecosystems. BAYC and MAYC, which once symbolized the speculative frenzy of the NFT boom, now face challenges competing with newer models offering tangible use cases, such as tokenized real estate or identity systems. Coincu research notes that reduced centralized exchange staking could drive increased self-custody practices, though this remains speculative [2].

ApeCoin (APE), the native token of the Ape ecosystem, has seen mixed performance. As of July 25, 2025, APE trades at $0.64, with a 34.57% decline in 24-hour volume to $42.94 million, according to CoinMarketCap. Analysts attribute this volatility to protocol-level changes and shifting market sentiment, though no direct link to Binance’s announcement has been established. Historical trends suggest APE demand could face further pressure if NFT staking programs on major exchanges continue to scale back [2].

Binance’s decision does not signal a permanent withdrawal from NFT staking but rather a recalibration of its offerings. The platform, launched in 2021, has previously phased out staking programs for other projects amid regulatory scrutiny and market fluctuations. While the company has not specified whether other NFT staking initiatives will follow suit, the focus on utility-driven assets indicates a broader industry trend toward practicality over speculation [1].

For BAYC and MAYC holders, the discontinuation removes a key income stream, potentially reshaping market dynamics. The transition period—allowing users to reclaim assets before the 2025 deadline—aims to minimize disruption. However, the absence of Binance’s involvement in these NFTs may reduce liquidity, especially for collections already facing declining interest.

The decision also underscores the maturation of the NFT market, where speculative hype has given way to pragmatic assessments of value. While BAYC and MAYC retain cultural significance, their role as income-generating assets has diminished. Binance’s strategic pivot mirrors actions taken by other exchanges reevaluating NFT services, reflecting a sector in transition.

Source:

[1] [title: Binance NFT: Important Update on APE NFT Staking Products] [url: https://www.binance.com/en/support/announcement/detail/2be379d1fe084e97b865b7b0bb407cbe]

[2] [title: ApeCoin Market Analysis Following Binance’s Staking Discontinuation] [url: https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/6883e9438cc78b1500f6247f/]