Espresso Launches Native Token ESP with 10% Airdrop and Holder Score Mechanism

• Espresso (ESP) launched a 10% airdrop to reward early adopters and promote adoption in the layer-2 blockchain space.
• The project introduced the Holder Score model, which evaluates long-term token engagement and holding behavior to determine airdrop allocations.
• Perpetual futures trading for ESP is set to launch on 12 FEB 2026, with availability on Coinbase Advanced and Coinbase International Exchange in select jurisdictions.

The Espresso Network launched its native token, ESP to strengthen its position in the layer-2 blockchain space. This token serves as a coordination and finality layer for rollups, enabling faster block finality and improved interoperability. The airdrop targets over one million addresses through 30 activities, including mainnet registration, NFT ownership, and community events. A holder scoring mechanism assesses user behavior from previous airdrops to reward long-term engagement. Unclaimed tokens will be redistributed in future airdrops, grants, or rewards.

The ESP token supports a permissionless proof-of-stake blockchain, aligning incentives for users to stake and participate in protocol governance. The airdrop emphasizes the project's commitment to decentralization and community-driven growth. By rewarding long-term holders, Espresso aims to cultivate a sustainable and engaged user base.

The ESP token launched at a valuation of roughly $275 million, enabling the network to transition to proof-of-stake and providing key infrastructure for rollups and appchains. This includes finality, data availability, and real-time interoperability. A Kaito Launchpad sale in July 2025 sold 1% of the supply at a $400 million valuation, but current prices show a 31% loss for those investors.

What is the Holder Score Model and How Does It Work?

The Holder Score model is designed to reward long-term token holders by analyzing their behavior, including staking and historical holding patterns. This approach shifts away from traditional airdrop mechanics that often result in immediate selling and price volatility. The system assesses over 30 qualifying activities to determine airdrop allocations. Anti-Sybil protections are in place to detect and filter suspicious wallets. This model is expected to encourage sustained staking and governance participation.

What Impact Will the ESP Airdrop Have on Market Dynamics?

The ESP airdrop aims to distribute 10% of the total initial supply, with an additional 24.81% reserved for future airdrops and incentives. This airdrop targets over one million addresses, ensuring broad participation while rewarding long-term engagement. The airdrop's success will depend on the claim rates and the effectiveness of the holder scoring mechanism.

What Are the Trading and Listing Plans for ESP?

Perpetual futures trading for ESP will go live on 12 FEB 2026, if liquidity conditions are met. This market will be available to retail traders in select jurisdictions via Coinbase Advanced. Institutions in select jurisdictions can access perpetual futures directly via Coinbase International Exchange. Binance will list ESP on 12 FEB 2026 with USDT, USDC, and TRY trading pairs. The Seed label requires users to complete a quiz every 90 days to gain trading permissions. This mechanism is designed to manage volatility by restricting speculative flows.

The settlement process for ESP pre-market trading is set to begin, with a mapping ratio of 1000:359 between pre-listing points and tokens. Pre-market trading ends on 12 FEB 2026 at 11:00 UTC, and spot trading will start at a later date. Failure to deliver on time will result in the loss of all collateral.