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Astar Network has released a new roadmap as it moves to add more utility and features to its native token.

Summary

Astar Network, a parachain within the Polkadot ecosystem, has released a fresh roadmap to enhance its native token. The project plans to introduce a fixed supply cap of 10.5 billion ASTR, replacing the inflationary model. Starting next year, the network will shift from its current governance system to a community-led approach. Shared in a November 12 X post, the roadmap outlines Astar Network’s plan to improve its native ASTR token with features that reduce supply, increase cross-chain use, and provide the community with more control. It sets the stage for the team’s long-term goal of making the token more stable, useful, and valuable over time.

https://twitter.com/AstarNetwork/status/1988532291635982609?s=20

Astar Network introduced the upcoming Tokenomics 3.0 framework, which will shift ASTR from an inflationary supply to a fixed cap of 10.5 billion tokens, possibly less after the network’s planned “Burndrop” event. The Burndrop also allows users to burn their ASTR (ASTR) tokens in exchange for allocations in the Startale ecosystem, a feature that is currently in testing and is designed to create scarcity while rewarding long-term holders.

“After months of building, Astar is entering its next era, one defined by proof, progress, and participation. The foundation is set for a more decentralized, utility-driven network,” the team wrote.

Meanwhile, the network is also planning to launch a Startale App by early 2026. The application will act as a multichain wallet and “super app” for managing the native token across the various networks, supporting payments, and making it easier for users to interact with the ecosystem.

Astar Network eyes Plaza integration and governance shift As part of the roadmap, Astar will integrate with Polkadot Asset Hub Plaza starting later this year. This upgrade will add EVM compatibility, enable bridging to Ethereum, and give ASTR access to wider liquidity, while also expanding the token’s role in cross-chain staking and voting.

To increase community participation, the Astar Foundation plans to move toward decentralized governance by mid-2026 through community councils and contributor programs. Later that year, it will launch an Ambassador Fellowship Program that rewards active members with tokens.

With this roadmap, Astar aims to position itself as a sustainable Web3 infrastructure platform. Founder Sota Watanabe noted that the goal is to create “a leaner, fairer network” where the native token is not just a utility asset but a cornerstone of the protocol’s long-term future.

TLDR: Bitbank and Epos Card launched Japan’s first crypto-linked credit card on April 27, 2026. Cardholders earn a 0.5% crypto cashback monthly, choosing between Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Astar. Users can pay monthly card fees directly from their bitbank exchange account using Bitcoin. Visa’s Japan president confirmed support, calling it a key step in connecting crypto to daily payments. Japan’s Bitbank has officially entered the credit card market with a compelling cashback offer. In partnership with Epos Card Co., Ltd., the company launched the EPOS CRYPTO Card for bitbank on April 27, 2026.

The card gives users a 0.5% crypto cashback on all monthly card spending. This move positions Bitbank as a serious player in Japan’s broader consumer financial services space.

A Cashback Model Built Around Crypto Asset Returns The 0.5% crypto cashback feature sits at the center of this card’s value proposition. Unlike traditional cashback programs that return yen or points, this card rewards users in digital assets.

Cardholders can receive their returns in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or Astar (ASTR). The chosen crypto asset is then credited directly to the user’s Bitbank exchange account.

What makes this arrangement particularly practical is the monthly selection flexibility. Users are not locked into one crypto asset for the entire year.

Instead, they choose their preferred return asset each month based on personal preference. This gives cardholders direct control over how they build their digital asset holdings over time.

New members also receive an additional welcome benefit worth 2,000 yen upon signing up. This is awarded on top of the recurring 0.5% crypto cashback program.

Together, both incentives make the card attractive for users already active on the bitbank exchange. Applicants must hold a verified bitbank account to qualify for the card.

Epos Card, the fintech arm of the Marui Group, brings its financial inclusion mission to this partnership. The company has long aimed to provide accessible financial services across all income levels.

Pairing that mission with Bitbank’s crypto infrastructure creates a card that serves both new and experienced crypto holders. The result is a rewards structure designed to lower the barrier to digital asset ownership.

How Bitbank Is Reshaping Japan’s Crypto Payment Landscape Beyond cashback, the card also allows users to pay monthly fees directly from their bitbank exchange account. This makes it Japan’s first credit card to support crypto asset withdrawals for card payment.

Bitcoin is the only asset currently accepted for this withdrawal function. The BTC is sold at the prevailing market rate at the time the payment is processed.

Users should factor in that crypto price movements can affect the final yen-converted amount. There is also a possibility that insufficient BTC holdings could prevent a payment from going through.

Furthermore, selling crypto assets in Japan may carry tax obligations requiring a formal return. Cardholders are advised to stay informed on the regulatory side of crypto transactions.

Visa Worldwide Japan K.K. President Setan Kitney publicly welcomed the card’s launch with a clear statement of support. “We are pleased to announce that we have taken a new and important step in connecting crypto assets with the everyday payment experience,” Kitney said.

He further added, “We hope that new options such as payments and rewards using crypto assets will become more accessible to more people.” His comments reflect growing institutional confidence in crypto-integrated consumer products across Japan.

Kitney also reaffirmed Visa’s broader commitment to the space. “Visa will continue to work with issuers and other ecosystems to foster innovation and expand access to financial services,” he noted.

This backing from a global payments giant adds credibility to the card’s long-term prospects. It also signals that major financial networks are aligning with the direction both Bitbank and Epos Card are heading.

Looking ahead, both companies plan to widen the card’s supported digital assets and payment options. A commemorative campaign is currently running on Bitbank’s official website for new applicants.