Validator Subsidy Sunset

Overview

The Radix community voted decisively to end the Foundation-administered validator subsidy, transitioning validators to fee-based sustainability. The plan tapers the subsidy over five months rather than halting it abruptly.

Tapering Schedule

Phase 1 — Foundation Administered

• February 2026: Capped at 400k XRD or $350 USD (whichever is lower)
• March 2026: Capped at 400k XRD or $200 USD (whichever is lower)

Phase 2 — Community Administered

• April–May 2026: Reduced to $100 USD paid in XRD

Phase 3 — Conclusion

• June 2026: Subsidy ends completely

Impact

Validators must transition to fee-based revenue models. The community recommends validators adjust fees, promote their nodes, and properly unregister if exiting. Stakers should diversify across multiple validators and monitor node performance during the transition period.

External Links

• Consultation Results: The Future of the Validator Subsidy