Perpetual trading and payments are gaining real traction in the market. Aster has become a notable player in this space, now serving over 2 million users with approximately $2.5B in total value locked. The platform's promotional campaign—dubbed the '0 Fee Carnival'—waives gas fees for transactions involving USDC and USD1, an initiative running through January 31, 2026. This incentive structure has proven effective. Weekly stablecoin trading volume has surged past $30B, while stablecoin supply has more than doubled on the network. The numbers suggest that combining reduced friction costs with accessible payment rails resonates with users seeking efficient, low-cost trading and settlement options.