Solana’s Yakovenko Proposes 20% Token Launch for Early Users

Solana co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko has outlined what he sees as a cleaner and more efficient funding blueprint for early-stage crypto projects. In a recent post, Yakovenko argued that token launches should reward real users early, while still giving long-term holders reasons to stay committed.

He also suggested that markets can handle clear unlock schedules, as long as teams design them with discipline. Hence, his model challenges the heavy venture-backed approach many token projects still rely on.

Yakovenko said early-stage tokens work best when they include staking systems that incentivize long-term holding. Additionally, he believes projects should release more than 20% of tokens on launch day. 

In his view, this creates stronger early liquidity and helps price discovery happen faster. Consequently, it reduces the chance of thin order books and unstable early trading.

Token Launch Built Around Users, Not Insiders

Yakovenko also stated that teams and investors should not unlock tokens on the token generation event. Instead, he prefers distribution through airdrops for power users or fair auction models. 

Moreover, he suggested that projects should aim for zero investors when possible. That structure, he implied, keeps projects focused on product-market fit rather than exit pressure.

However, he acknowledged that some teams will still take outside funding. In those cases, he said investors should unlock 100% of their tokens one year after launch. He believes this approach aligns incentives and forces a real market balance. Besides, he argued that a large unlock does not automatically damage price.

Why a One-Year Unlock May Improve Price Discovery

Yakovenko explained that an upfront one-year wait creates a clear and predictable market event. Consequently, traders can plan around it instead of guessing insider actions. Additionally, he said secondary markets can naturally match sellers who want liquidity with buyers who want more exposure.

He also argued that primary market pricing can anchor expectations during that year. Moreover, staking rewards can support holders who commit early, similar to long-horizon investors in traditional finance.

SOL Price Holds Key Demand as OBV Nears Decision Point

Solana traded higher on the day, with SOL priced at $129.02 and up 2.08% in 24 hours. However, the token remained down 11% over the past week. 

According to BitGuru SOL bounced from a demand zone around $127 to $129 after a sharp drop. The analyst suggested holding that level could support a push toward $133 to $136.

Source: X

IncomeSharks also highlighted the importance of OBV direction. The analyst noted that price and OBV remain inside channels, which signals hesitation. A bullish OBV break could support upside targets toward $140 and $155 to $160. Conversely, an OBV breakdown could shift focus toward $115 and possibly $100.