CZ Backs Aster’s Stellar Token Launch: Binance Founder Throws Weight Behind Project’s Impressive Debut
Binance's Changpeng Zhao just placed his bets on Aster—and the market's responding with fireworks. The project's token debut isn't just meeting expectations; it's shattering them.
Why CZ's endorsement matters
When the founder of the world's largest crypto exchange publicly champions a new token, people listen. This isn't some random shill—it's strategic backing from a player who's built an empire on spotting value early.
The debut numbers speak volumes
Aster's launch metrics read like a crypto trader's wishlist: rapid price appreciation, strong volume, and instant liquidity. While other tokens struggle for attention, this one's grabbing it by the throat.
The cynical take
Another day, another token—but when CZ talks, even the most jaded finance veterans lean in. Because in a world saturated with 'revolutionary' projects, sometimes all it takes is one heavyweight's nod to make magic happen. Or just another pump waiting for its dump.
What is Aster?
Aster first launched as ApolloX in 2021 before merging with Astherus in late 2024, marking its rebrand and new direction, culminating in this week’s TGE.
This event allowed ApolloX’s APX holders to swap their tokens for ASTER, rewarding long-time investors who had waited for the transition. Aster is backed by YZi Labs, a venture capital firm associated with Zhao.
That structure, combined with Zhao’s backing, helped fuel investor enthusiasm.
According to CryptoSlate’s data, ASTER jumped more than 800% this week to $0.81593, with its market capitalization climbing to $1.3 billion.
Meanwhile, the Ripple effect extended across the market, with APX also rallying over 600% during the reporting period.
Blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain highlighted that one early APX backer saw their $226,000 stake grow into more than $2 million following the merger and token conversion.
Decentralized derivatives
Beyond investor enthusiasm, Aster has quickly positioned itself among the largest decentralized derivatives platforms.
Data from DeFiLlama shows the platform processed $1.4 billion in trading volume within 24 hours of its launch, ranking it among the most active exchanges in the sector.
However, the scale of competition is stark, with Hyperliquid, its main rival in the sector, handling about $10 billion in volume over the same period.
The disparity illustrates Aster’s uphill challenge, even as Zhao’s endorsement and early trading data give the project a stronger foothold than most newcomers.
