Deep Dive
1. Fluid DEX v2 Launch (Upcoming)
Overview: Fluid DEX v2 is a foundational upgrade designed to be the "most advanced decentralized exchange." It introduces a singleton contract architecture supporting multiple AMM types, including Smart Collateral and Smart Debt range orders. Key features are hooks (inspired by Uniswap v4), flash accounting, on-chain limit orders, and dynamic fees. The upgrade aims to improve capital efficiency, reduce gas costs, and allow permissionless pool creation (Fluid).
What this means: This is bullish for FLUID because a more powerful and efficient DEX could significantly increase protocol trading volume and fee revenue. However, its success depends on user adoption and seamless integration with existing DeFi composability.
2. Fluid Reserve Buyback Program Review (April 2026)
Overview: The DAO initiated an on-chain buyback program in October 2025, allocating protocol revenue to repurchase FLUID tokens. The strategy includes a six-month review period ending around April 2026. Governance will then assess results and refine the long-term model, potentially incorporating additional revenue streams and dynamic adjustments (Fluid).
What this means: This is neutral to bullish for FLUID. A successful review and sustainable model could create consistent buying pressure and better align token value with protocol performance. The key risk is if revenue targets are missed, reducing buyback efficacy.
3. Wintermute Liquidity Partnership (Pending)
Overview: A governance proposal details a partnership with market maker Wintermute, involving a loan of 700k FLUID tokens for one year to provide liquidity across centralised and decentralised exchanges. The deal includes a $10 strike price repayment option and integration of Fluid DEX into Wintermute's trading systems (Fluid Governance).
What this means: This is bullish for FLUID because improved liquidity, especially on CEXs, reduces volatility and enhances accessibility for institutions. The DEX integration could drive substantial new volume. The bearish angle is the low $10 strike price, which may undervalue future upside.
Conclusion
Fluid's near-term trajectory hinges on launching its technically ambitious DEX v2 and institutionalizing its tokenomics through the buyback program. How will the protocol balance innovation with sustainable value accrual for FLUID holders?