Hyperliquid News Today: Community-Led Restaking Challenges Bear Market Expectations While HYPE Tokens Remain Resilient

Hyperliquid Releases $60.4 Million in HYPE Tokens to Developers and Core Team

On November 29, 2025, Hyperliquid—a decentralized exchange recognized for its rapid trading capabilities—distributed $60.4 million worth of HYPE tokens to its developers and key contributors. This token release, totaling 1.75 million HYPE at current valuations, marked the first anniversary of the platform’s landmark airdrop, which stands out as one of the most significant and community-oriented token launches in the crypto sector.

Despite initial worries about downward price pressure, blockchain data showed that only a small portion—23.4%—of the unlocked tokens were sold over-the-counter to Flowdesk. In contrast, more than 40% were restaked, and 35% remained untouched in contributor wallets. This outcome contradicted pessimistic predictions, including those from BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes, who had anticipated monthly sell pressure reaching $500 million.

Token Distribution and Contributor Behavior

• Founder-level wallets received 170,619 HYPE tokens.
• Senior contributors were allocated 1,049,986 HYPE.
• Mid-level team members obtained 99,998 HYPE.
• Smaller wallets were each granted 30,000 HYPE.

According to analyst KirbyCrypto, Hyperlabs and its team restaked 33% of their tokens, with four major wallets staking an additional 9%. This strong commitment to the platform’s ecosystem was further demonstrated by the fact that 35% of the unlocked tokens remained in team wallets. Such disciplined behavior stands in stark contrast to the typical volatility seen in projects heavily backed by venture capital, where large token sales often disrupt the market.

Market Impact and Technical Outlook

The market’s response to the unlock was subdued, with HYPE’s price slipping just 1.7% to $33.80. Technical analysis indicated that the token was trading at the lower boundary of a falling wedge pattern, hinting at a possible bullish reversal if resistance above $40 is breached. However, a drop below $30 could trigger renewed volatility. On-chain data also revealed heightened activity from large holders at recent price lows, suggesting accumulation rather than distribution.

Crypto McKenna, another analyst, predicted that Hyperliquid’s ongoing buyback initiative—averaging $82 million per month—would continue to offset any selling pressure, even under challenging market conditions.

Hyperliquid’s Distinct Approach and Future Prospects

Hyperliquid’s approach sets it apart from other decentralized exchanges that depend on venture capital. The platform has grown organically, fueled by community support and innovative features such as ultra-fast order execution and active governance. Nevertheless, the project faces ongoing competition from other perpetual futures platforms like Aster and Lighter. Despite these challenges, the recent token unlock demonstrated the team’s long-term commitment, with most tokens being restaked or held rather than sold.

What’s Next for HYPE?

Looking forward, investors should keep an eye on upcoming token unlocks, which are scheduled according to a 24-month vesting plan. If the current trends of restaking and buybacks persist, HYPE’s price could remain stable, bolstered by large holder accumulation and positive technical signals. This event also underscores the value of real-time blockchain monitoring for understanding liquidity trends in the cryptocurrency market.