Stratis is pleased to confirm that the mainnet activation of the updated Masternode Contract will occur on:
- June 11th, 2025
- Approximately 11:00 AM (BST)
- Block: 2,587,200
- Estimated Epoch: 81,844
This hard fork represents the final step in enabling the Masternode Staking protocol on the Stratis Mainnet, following a successful testnet deployment and hard fork on Auroria.
Upgrade Now to Remain Active After the Fork
All validators must upgrade before the scheduled hard fork to remain active after block 2,587,200. The time to upgrade is now.
- Only the Geth binary requires updating
Stratis Launcher users can upgrade effortlessly by navigating to the Updates menu and selecting “Update All”.
Validators running Geth manually should ensure they are using the latest version containing the hard fork activation logic. The latest release of go-stratis can be found here: https://github.com/stratisproject/go-stratis/releases/tag/1.1.2
Early upgrade is strongly recommended to prevent service interruptions and avoid missing attestations or block proposals.
Enhancing Yield
The upgrade to the Masternode Contract allows STRAX holders to stake their tokens and register a Masternode simultaneously, unlocking two concurrent streams of yield.
Using the Masternode Staking protocol, participants receive mSTRAX,a liquid staking token. This mSTRAX can then be used as collateral to register a Masternode, meaning token holders can now earn from both the staking protocol and the Masternode contract, with all rewards distributed in STRAX.
More information on how the protocol works is available here.
Coinciding with the hard fork, the Stratis Mainnet Masternode Staking dApp will go live. This dApp makes it easy to stake STRAX, manage mSTRAX, and participate in the enhanced Masternode ecosystem with just a few clicks.
Guidance for Existing Masternode Operators
If you are already operating a masternode, no action is required. You will remain registered and continue to receive rewards from the Masternode Contract after the hard fork. The upgrade does not affect your existing registration or operation.
However, if you wish to participate in Masternode Staking, to take advantage of dual reward opportunities. you will need to follow the standard withdrawal process:
- Initiate a withdrawal of your current collateral from the Masternode Contract.
- Wait for the cooling-off period to complete.
- Finalize the withdrawal and stake your STRAX through the Masternode Staking dApp.
- Receive mSTRAX and use it as collateral to register again within the updated Masternode Contract.
This is entirely optional. Existing masternodes can continue operating as normal, but those seeking enhanced yield through dual participation are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Looking Ahead
This mainnet hardfork marks a significant advancement for the Stratis ecosystem, bringing increased yield opportunities and improved utility for STRAX holders. With audit-backed security, robust testing, and community readiness, the network is set to enter a more rewarding phase.
Further updates, including guidance on using the dApp, will be shared as activation approaches. In the meantime, the best way to stay informed and receive real-time support is by joining the Stratis community on Discord
