The protocol aims to increase Bitcoin locking through monthly staking bonds, with the first window, Bond 3, scheduled for November 10, 2026. Previously, the first two phases attracted 735 BTC, comprising 250 BTC from the Genesis Bond and 505 BTC from Period 2.
The network upgrade, Epoch 4.1, is targeted for early December. This update will establish Clarity 7 as the default for new smart contracts. Stacks will announce the specific activation block height 30 days in advance.
The Q3 report, published on October 15, 2026, noted that staked STX increased from 392 million to 493 million following the PoX-5 upgrade. Additionally, STX value grew by approximately 50% in the four weeks leading to October 13, 2026.
Muneeb Ali has transitioned to the role of CEO at Stacks Labs. He introduced the Satoshi Upgrades, a strategic vision focused on capital markets, privacy, and post-quantum security, with a timeline extending through 2030.
