Bybit Launches ASTER with $100k Campaign to Bridge DeFi and TradFi

Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has become the first platform to list ASTER (ASTER/USDT), a token formed from the late-2024 merger of Astherus, a multi-asset liquidity hub, and APX Finance, a decentralized perpetuals protocol. The listing, announced on September 21, 2025, includes spot trading, which commenced at 9:30 a.m. UTC, with deposits opening at 8:00 a.m. UTC and withdrawals available from 10:00 a.m. UTC on September 22. ASTER has gained traction due to its integration with the Binance ecosystem and endorsements from Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ), alongside generating $6.05 million in revenue during Q3 2025.

To coincide with the listing, Bybit launched a $100,000 USDT reward campaign spanning September 21–29. The initiative includes two events: a "New Users Exclusive" offering 50,000 USDT in rewards for the first 2,000 participants who complete KYC, deposit at least 60 ASTER or 100 USDT, and trade 100 USDT worth of ASTER. The second event, open to all users, allocates 50,000 USDT for spot trading of at least 500 USDT worth of ASTER, with rewards capped at 800 USDT per user. These campaigns aim to drive user engagement and position ASTER as a competitive DeFi token.

Bybit’s decision to list ASTER aligns with its strategy to support emerging blockchain protocols and expand its Web3 infrastructure. The exchange, which serves over 60 million users globally, emphasizes bridging traditional and decentralized finance. ASTER’s narrative value—rooted in its Binance ecosystem ties and community-driven initiatives—has fueled market anticipation, with analysts noting its potential to challenge established DeFi protocols. The token’s revenue growth and institutional backing further underscore its significance in the evolving DeFi landscape.

The ASTER listing and campaign reflect Bybit’s broader efforts to attract liquidity and foster innovation. By prioritizing tokens with strong ecosystem integration and revenue momentum, Bybit aims to solidify its leadership in the cryptocurrency market. ASTER’s early adoption on the platform could amplify its visibility, particularly as DeFi protocols continue to gain traction among retail and institutional investors.

Source: [1] Bybit List ASTER Token First and Launches 100,000 USDT Reward (https://coincentral.com/bybit-lists-aster-token-first-and-launches-100000-usdt-reward-campaign/) [2] Bybit Lists ASTER as First Exchange, Opens 100,000 USDT Campaign (https://u.today/bybit-lists-aster-as-first-exchange-opens-100000-usdt-campaign) [3] Bybit lists ASTER with an exclusive campaign worth 100,000 USDT (https://www.cryptopolitan.com/bybit-lists-aster-with-an-exclusive-campaign-worth-100000-usdt/) [4] Bybit Becomes the First Exchange to List ASTER, Launches Exclusive Campaigns with Rewards Up to 100,000 USDT (https://coinpaper.com/11194/bybit-becomes-the-first-exchange-to-list-aster-launches-exclusive-campaigns-with-rewards-up-to-100-000-usdt)