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- Aave may shut down multiple low-revenue V3 markets under a new revenue-based strategy.
- ETHLend is set to return in 2026 with native BTC lending.
- Aave V4 testnet introduces a modular Hub-and-Spoke architecture.
Aave is preparing for one of its biggest strategic pivots in years as the community weighs a proposal to streamline its multichain footprint and focus only on networks that deliver meaningful revenue. The plan arrives at a time when the protocol is advancing two major developments: the 2026 return of ETHLend and early testing for Aave V4.
A Targeted Multichain Strategy
The temporary proposal, titled “Focusing the Aave V3 Multichain Strategy,” outlines a clear directive: reduce operational drag by winding down deployments on chains that generate little economic value.
Aave’s own revenue chart illustrates the widening gap. Plasma contributes nearly $10 million in annual revenue, while networks such as zkSync, Metis and Soneium bring in anywhere from $3,000 to $50,000 per year — far below the threshold needed to justify maintenance and liquidity fragmentation.
To address the imbalance, contributors recommend shutting down these low-revenue markets altogether.
A New Rule for Future Expansions
One of the most notable features of the proposal is a newly introduced bar for any future chain deployments: $2 million in annual revenue.
Supporters say this requirement would help Aave avoid past mistakes, when adding new chains often provided more surface area than real economic benefit. A more selective approach, they argue, will strengthen core markets while preventing unnecessary liquidity dilution.
If passed, the plan would signal a shift toward performance-based expansion — a move that aligns Aave more closely with revenue-focused DeFi governance trends.
ETHLend Returns in 2026, Native BTC Lending Planned
Alongside governance discussions, founder Stani Kulechov confirmed that ETHLend will relaunch in 2026, this time supporting native BTC rather than wrapped assets.
This marks a significant break from DeFi norms, where wrapped tokens dominate due to technical simplicity. The new design pushes for a more mature, trust-minimized lending model.
Aave V4 Testnet and Hub-and-Spoke Architecture
Aave also opened its public V4 testnet, unveiling a preview of Aave Pro and a redesigned architecture known as Hub and Spoke.
Liquidity Hubs will coordinate pooled capital and interest mechanisms, while Spokes — including the Base, Treasury and Vault Spokes — operate with independent collateral rules and risk parameters.
The approach aims to bring greater modularity, risk isolation and capital efficiency to the protocol.
Aave’s latest moves suggest a protocol consolidating, modernizing and preparing for the next phase of competition in DeFi. With a sharper multichain strategy, a native-BTC lending reboot and a major technical upgrade underway, the ecosystem is setting its sights on sustainable, revenue-driven growth.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
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