Deep Dive
1. Boros Mainnet Launch (Q4 2025)
Overview:
Boros aims to tokenize funding rates from perpetual futures markets (daily $150B+ volume). It allows protocols like Ethena to hedge variable funding yields and lets traders lock fixed rates. Initial tests showed $35M daily open interest.
What this means:
This is bullish for PENDLE as it opens a $558T derivatives market, directly funneling fees to vePENDLE holders. Risks include adoption hurdles in complex derivatives and reliance on perpetual DEX liquidity.
2. Citadels Expansion (2025)
Overview:
Citadels target non-EVM chains (Solana, TON) and regulated entities via:
- PT for TradFi: KYC-compliant yield vaults with partners like Ethena.
- Islamic Finance Gateway: Shariah-certified products for $3.9T markets.
What this means:
Neutral-to-bullish – expansion diversifies revenue but faces regulatory risks. Success hinges on institutional adoption, with Pendle’s 2024 TradFi inflows already hitting $137.6B via ETFs (NullTX).
3. vePENDLE Governance Upgrade (Q1 2026)
Overview:
Planned upgrades include dynamic fee rebalancing for LPs and simplified voting for small holders. Currently, 37% of PENDLE supply is locked (avg. 388 days), earning 40% APY + airdrops.
What this means:
Bullish if implemented – improved tokenomics could reduce sell pressure and attract long-term holders. However, delayed timelines or technical issues pose execution risks.
Conclusion
Pendle’s roadmap focuses on capturing institutional demand (Citadels), derivatives markets (Boros), and refining its vePENDLE flywheel. While these initiatives align with its $9.3B TVL growth, watch for execution speed and regulatory clarity. Will Pendle’s multi-chain push solidify its position as DeFi’s yield layer by 2026?