- Hayabusa ends passive VTHO generation and moves VeChain to a staking-only rewards model tied to Validator activity.
- StarGate 2.0 adds clearer data, improved tools and a new Delegator NFT system for streamlined staking and delegation.
- Node tiers, developer tools and updated weighting rules connect user participation to broader network development.
VeChain launched its Hayabusa upgrade on December 2, 2025, placing the VeChainThor mainnet into a transition phase as Validators began onboarding and preparing the first rewards cycle.
The shift involved users, Validators and StarGate participants because the update changed how rewards work across the network. The phase runs until December 9, when the first cycle completes.
New Rules for Rewards and Delegation
VeChain moved to a staking-only structure for VTHO generation, which ended passive rewards from holding VET tokens in wallets.
This created a direct link between staking activity and block rewards. However, the network allowed users to delegate their StarGate NFTs during the transition so they could qualify for rewards once Validators complete their first cycle on December 9.
This changes leads to the next stage, where Validators continue harvesting early blocks and filling reward pools. According to the project team, users with pending rewards before StarGate migrated to the new version received automatic claims with no action required.
StarGate 2.0 Brings a New Interface
StarGate 2.0 introduced a redesigned system that offers clearer data and more accessible tools. The Earn tab in VeWorld now displays total VET staked, VTHO distributed, and APYs for Nodes and NFTs. It also lists live Validators and will include expanded information once their bio pages go live.
This update links directly to delegation because users create Delegator NFTs in the Earn section before selecting a Validator. The system aims to give participants a simple process while maintaining real-time visibility of rewards and staking activity.
Node Tiers, Developer Tools, and Expanded Support
StarGate Node tiers now include different VET collateral amounts and weighting rules that affect delegation and reward outcomes. Dawn Economic Nodes start at 10,000 VET, which supports wider participation.
This update also connects to VeChain’s broader developer plans. The network supports EVM tools, Hardhat, JSON-RPC functions, and VeBetter grants to build new applications. Hayabusa aligns these tools with the new reward model, linking decentralization, Validator activity, and user engagement across the ecosystem.
