$ASTER #AsterDEX Recent drop: -0.8% in the last 24h (price ~$0.71 at the time, with fluctuations).
Main positive catalyst: Launch of the Aster Chain Layer-1 mainnet in March 2026 (confirmed in February 2026 announcements), bringing privacy (ZK), high speed, native staking, fiat ramps, and more utility for the token.
Short-term risk: Large token unlock on February 17, 2026 (~78 million ASTER, value ~$44M at the time), which may generate selling pressure.
Other positives: Active buyback program (up to 80% of fees), accumulation by whales, high volume on the DEX.
Additional risks: Delay in staking for Q2 2026, questions about the quality of trading volume.
Community sentiment: Mixed — strong optimism with the mainnet (targets of $3–5 in some posts) vs. caution due to the unlock.
In short: ASTER has significant hype with the mainnet in March 2026, but the unlock on February 17, 2026 creates short-term dump risk, with divided sentiment in the community. DYOR, high volatility!