# Starknet Token Surges as Community Votes to Separate From Ethereum Network

- URL: https://stocks.freetheai.org/news/starknet-token-surges-as-community-votes-to-separate-from-ethereum-network-e43737
- Published: 2026-10-15T12:25:05Z
- Category: crypto; sentiment: bullish; impact: high
- Symbols: [COINBASE:STRKUSD](https://stocks.freetheai.org/symbols/COINBASE-STRKUSD)
- Written by our AI from expert market sources across the web for FreeTheAI Stocks, built by Vibhek Soni
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Starknet (COINBASE:STRKUSD) experienced a sharp price surge following a proposal to transform the project into an independent Layer 1 blockchain, severing its technical dependence on Ethereum. The native token gained over 20% to trade at $0.09298, supported by heavy trading activity where daily futures volume climbed to $894.84 million compared to $116.38 million in spot markets. The rally coincided with a scheduled unlock of 127 million tokens for early investors.

The proposed transition is driven by timeline differences regarding quantum encryption defenses. Project leaders highlighted that developments in artificial intelligence are accelerating potential quantum computing risks. Starknet aims to deploy quantum-resistant protections by 2027, whereas Ethereum is not scheduled to complete its security upgrades until late 2029. Independent operation allows Starknet to move forward two years earlier, though it requires giving up Ethereum's validator security in favor of its own $580.24 million market capitalization.

An initial community vote ending October 22 shows nearly unanimous support for the proposal. However, the referendum is preliminary and non-binding, serving as authorization for further research. A full transition will require months of technical development, additional formal votes, and the creation of an autonomous security system. Core tokenomics will remain unchanged, with the token remaining the sole settlement asset and cross-chain bridges staying operational.

## Key points

- Starknet proposed moving to an independent Layer 1 blockchain to accelerate its security roadmap.
- The STRK token rose over 20% to $0.09298, with futures trading volume reaching $894.84 million.
- The separation aims to deploy quantum-resistant encryption by 2027, two years ahead of Ethereum.
- An initial community vote shows over 99% approval, though the referendum is non-binding.
- Starknet will maintain its existing tokenomics and cross-chain bridges during the transition.

## Questions and answers

### Why is Starknet proposing to leave Ethereum?

Starknet plans to become an independent Layer 1 blockchain to deploy quantum-resistant encryption by 2027, avoiding Ethereum's longer upgrade timeline scheduled for late 2029.

### Will the STRK token change if Starknet becomes independent?

No. The project's tokenomics will remain the same, keeping STRK as the sole settlement asset while existing bridges to Ethereum stay functional.

### Is the vote to separate Starknet from Ethereum final?

No. The vote ending October 22 is non-binding and authorizes further research. The technical transition will take months and require additional community votes.