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Kraken-Backed INK Foundation Sparks Defi Stir With INK Token Airdrop and Aave Launch
Several ambitious cryptocurrency projects launched in 2025, but few generated as much discussion as the INK Foundation‘s new token. The foundation, backed by crypto exchange giant Kraken, introduced INK as the native token for its Ethereum Layer 2 network called Ink, which went live in late 2024.
Built on Optimism’s Superchain technology, Ink promises faster and cheaper Ethereum transactions for decentralized finance users. The network already integrates with Kraken’s wallet app, making it easier for users to access DeFi services without the headaches of high gas fees. Think of it as taking the express lane while everyone else sits in Ethereum traffic.
Taking the express lane while everyone else sits in Ethereum traffic
The INK token launch in June 2025 took a different approach from typical crypto releases. Instead of random airdrops that often attract farmers looking for quick profits, the foundation targeted actual users. Early liquidity providers on Aave protocols received the first distributions, rewarding those who genuinely participated in the ecosystem rather than just hodling and hoping. The foundation created a subsidiary company specifically to manage the airdrop distribution and prevent excessive farming activity. This strategic distribution to liquidity providers aligns with yield farming principles where users earn rewards for contributing assets to DeFi protocols.
What makes INK unique is its fixed supply of one billion tokens and its lack of governance rights. While most DeFi tokens let holders vote on protocol changes, INK focuses purely on utility within lending and liquidity protocols. The foundation fundamentally said “we’re here to build, not debate” – a revitalizing take in the often drama-filled crypto space.
The timing raises eyebrows though. Recent Layer 2 token launches from projects like Blast, Celestia, and Berachain haven’t exactly mooned, with many treating new tokens as exit liquidity rather than long-term investments. Even Coinbase’s Base network skipped having a token entirely, preferring to build without the tokenomics complexity.
Despite holding over $7 million in total value locked, Ink’s revenue and usage metrics remain modest. The INK Foundation operates as a nonprofit organization, distinguishing itself from more profit-driven crypto ventures. The real test comes as more DeFi protocols integrate with the network. Whether INK becomes another forgotten L2 token or establishes itself as a genuine DeFi primitive depends on actual adoption beyond the initial airdrop hype.
For now, the foundation appears focused on building real utility rather than pumping prices – a strategy that might just work if users actually dyor and stick around.
