This proposal introduces a utility-based staking mechanism for the WCT (WalletConnect Token), where users and developers stake WCT to unlock premium WalletConnect protocol features. This is aimed at increasing token demand, incentivizing long-term holding, and supporting a sustainable Web3 UX infrastructure.
Motivation
Currently, WCT has limited utility beyond speculative value. To ensure its long-term sustainability and relevance, we must tie token usage directly to protocol-level benefits.
WalletConnect powers wallet–dApp communication across the Web3 ecosystem. By introducing premium features accessible only through WCT staking, we can:
Create meaningful token utility
Encourage token lock-up and reduce sell pressure
Reward long-term supporters
Increase developer and institutional adoption
Specification
1. Staking Tiers
Tier
WCT Staked
Benefits
Tier 0
0
Basic connection features
Tier 1
1,000 WCT
Priority connection latency, dev analytics
Tier 2
10,000 WCT
Access to advanced APIs, multi-session management
Tier 3
100,000 WCT
Whitelisted relayers, protocol-level premium UX, beta features
All WCT staked are locked for a minimum of 30 days.
2. Premium Features Unlocked
Faster relay routing
Higher session timeout limits
Access to dev dashboard & usage metrics
Access to premium SDK plugins (e.g. mobile deep linking)
Early access to new protocol releases
3. Smart Contract Design
A non-custodial staking smart contract will handle tier classification
Users can upgrade/downgrade tiers via UI interface
Rewards (if any) to be discussed in future proposals
Benefits
Utility: Token tied to real, protocol-wide value
Adoption: Encourages devs and wallets to hold/stake WCT
Sustainability: Reduces token velocity and speculative churn
Scalability: Future DAO modules can build on this structure
Considerations
Requires clear communication of benefits per tier
Smart contract audit and phased rollout is essential
Premium access must not block essential protocol openness
Next Steps
Community feedback & discussion
Smart contract development by core contributors
Beta testing phase with select developer partners
DAO vote to implement on mainnet
Snapshot Poll (To be created)
Q: Should the DAO implement a tier-based staking model for WCT that enables access to premium WalletConnect protocol features?
To provide the community and core contributors with a clear expectation of rollout phases, the following visual outlines the estimated timeline for implementing the WCT staking mechanism — assuming the proposal is accepted by the DAO.
1. Community Discussion & Finalization (2–4 weeks)
Open feedback and refinement of staking logic
Adjustments based on dev and user needs
2. Security Audit (2–4 weeks)
Comprehensive review of staking smart contracts
External audit from a trusted third-party provider
3. Beta Testing (Testnet) (2–3 weeks)
Trial run of staking tiers and feature access
Limited release to select developers and testers
4. Mainnet Launch (1 week)
Final deployment of the staking mechanism
Public release of staking dashboard and integrations
This timeline is subject to change based on audit findings or critical feedback, but reflects a realistic and agile rollout strategy aimed at balancing security and efficiency.
Thank you for sharing this detailed proposal. I think introducing staking tiers to unlock premium WalletConnect features is a promising approach to increase token utility and improve the overall ecosystem.
From a user perspective, I appreciate the idea of meaningful benefits like faster relay routing and advanced APIs, which could enhance the dApp experience significantly. The tiered staking model also seems fair, giving options for different user levels.
A few points I’d suggest considering:
Ensuring that basic WalletConnect functionality remains free and fully accessible to avoid fragmentation or barriers for casual users.
Clear communication about the exact benefits and how they translate into improved UX, so users can make informed staking decisions.
Transparent plans around potential rewards for stakers, which could further incentivize participation.
Making the UI intuitive and seamless for staking and tier management to encourage adoption.
Overall, I support the proposal and look forward to seeing the community discussion and testing phases.
Although I’m all for reducing sell pressure, the idea does concern me in regard to how it might negatively impact adoption? There should be a small degree of separation between WCT the token and WalletConnect the service.
A stake of 500$WCT with a locked duration of 105 weeks against a stake of 1000$WCT with a locked duration of 10weeks.
One with a larger asset,lesser lock duration enjoys higher tier premium content against one with less assets, longer duration which defeats the purpose of the boosted Stakers reward of rewarding and strengthening community commitments
