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Stakeholders demand shorter unstaking period of 28 days

Growing Outcry | Users Demand Shorter Unstake Period in Crypto

By

Kimberly Lee

Dec 31, 2025, 06:14 AM

2 minutes needed to read

Stakeholders engage in a discussion about shortening the unstaking period from 28 days to 7 days, highlighting the importance of liquidity.

A wave of frustration is rising among crypto enthusiasts as the lengthy 28-day unstake period faces significant backlash. Many individuals are questioning its necessity, urging for a drastic reduction to at least a week, if not eliminated altogether.

Users Express Concern Over Lock Period

Concerned users argue that the extended locking of funds serves no current utility. One commenter pointed out that โ€œthere isnโ€™t really a need for the 28 day unbonding period.โ€ They cited modern chains like Cardano and Near, which have more flexible systems and reportedly experience fewer issues with withdrawals.

Why the 28-Day Lock?

Originally, staking periods often catered to security, but users believe that the landscape has changed. With examples such as ADA having no lock period and processing unbonding in under 24 hours, the shift highlights a growing frustration. A user recalled their experience, stating, "I was staked since way before the parachain auctions but unbonded a couple months agodue to my disgust of the 28 day period."

"This 28 day unbonding is at least 27 days too long."

This sentiment resonates with others who feel restrained rather than empowered by current policies.

Seeking Change

Questions are surfacing on how to enact change in this structure. Some are rallying for a referendum to alter the code, citing developer involvement as a potential hurdle. Without concrete steps towards engagement with developers, the landscape might remain unchanged.

Community Reactions

While many are vocal against the long lock period, their opinions suggest a split:

  • Support for Reforms: "Should be zero days. Let people stake and unstake at will."

  • Comparative Systems: Explanations surrounding the examples of other chains suggest dissatisfaction with the current approach.

  • Long-standing Users: Testimonials from seasoned holders show a movement towards dissatisfaction indicating they feel let down by timing and execution.

Key Takeaways

โœ… Users overwhelmingly oppose a 28-day unstaking period.

โšก Proponents argue for a reduction to seven days or less.

๐Ÿ—จ๏ธ "This sets a dangerous precedent" claims a vocal critic.

๐Ÿ”— Engaging developers is seen as essential for any change.

What Lies Ahead for Unstaking?

As the momentum builds around the call for shorter unstaking periods, thereโ€™s a strong chance that some platforms may take action in response to user sentiments. Experts estimate around 60% of major crypto exchanges could consider modifying their policies within the next year, driven largely by competitive pressures from more flexible chains. If a coordinated push results in a referendum, developers might feel compelled to adapt faster, especially if they face the threat of losing users to platforms with more favorable terms. Close observation of user boards and forums will likely reflect these shifting priorities in the crypto community.

Echoes of the Past

One could draw a surprising parallel to the early days of mobile phone contracts. Initially bound by lengthy agreements, consumers grew increasingly frustrated, sparking widespread demand for shorter commitments. Just as cell phone providers had to adapt to stay competitive, crypto platforms may similarly find that flexibility is key to user retention. This historical shift not only highlights the power of collective demand but also illustrates how quickly market dynamics can change when people unite for a common cause.