Aave (AAVE), the leading decentralized lending platform, is exploring the activation of a “fee switch” that could distribute its $60 million annual net profits to token holders. This proposal comes amidst a flurry of activity within the Aave DAO, the community-driven governance body behind the platform.

Aave DAO Weighs Fee Distribution

Marc Zeller, founder of the Aave Chan Initiative, sparked discussions within the DAO by suggesting a “temp check” to activate the fee switch next week. Aave operates on the Ethereum blockchain and allows users to borrow and lend cryptocurrencies. AAVE token holders collectively govern Aave through the DAO.

This potential fee switch aligns with Zeller’s previous hints about implementing fees for Aave stakers. In March, he mentioned “distributing fees to stakers” as part of a new safety module iteration.

What is a Fee Switch?

In DeFi protocols like Aave, a fee switch is a mechanism for controlling and potentially distributing fees collected from platform activity. This allows the DAO to adjust fee structures based on the evolving needs of the platform. For instance, Aave DAO recently approved changes to staking fees for its stablecoin GHO to maintain its peg.

Following Frax Finance’s Lead?

If implemented, Aave’s fee switch would mirror a recent move by Frax Finance, another DeFi protocol, which reintroduced its own fee switch. However, the Aave DAO also recently debated restricting collateralization with Dai (DAI), a popular stablecoin.

Aave Integrates Renzo Protocol for Ethereum Lending Boost

The Aave community recently voted to integrate the Renzo Protocol and its ezETH product into the Aave V3 lending platform on Ethereum. This move is seen as a significant step towards expanding Aave’s capabilities and efficiency.

Community Governance Drives Innovation

The Aave community’s decision to integrate Renzo highlights the importance of user-driven governance in DeFi platforms. By adapting to user needs and integrating innovative solutions like Renzo, Aave positions itself to stay competitive within the evolving DeFi landscape.

Aave’s Market Position

On-chain data reveals Aave’s dominance in the DeFi lending sector, with over $11 billion in locked digital assets. The Aave treasury also holds a significant $50.3 million across various addresses. Following news of the proposed fee switch, the price of AAVE rose by 4%.

Aave DAO in Flux

The Aave DAO is actively considering multiple proposals to shape the platform’s future. One noteworthy proposal seeks to limit Aave’s exposure to DAI, a response to MakerDAO’s plans to invest in the USDe stablecoin.