#How is Optimism Linking Token Value to Network Usage?
Optimism plans to allocate half of its Superchain revenue to buy OP tokens, a key development that aligns the token's value more directly with network usage. This strategy signifies a transition for OP, evolving from a governance-oriented asset to one that is more integrated with the economic growth of the Superchain.
The Superchain is an expanding network of layer two chains built on the OP Stack, currently comprising Base, Unichain, Ink, World Chain, Soneium, and OP Mainnet. Remarkably, the Superchain now holds a substantial 61.4% of the layer two fee market share and is responsible for approximately 13% of all crypto transactions. Participating chains contribute to Optimism by returning a share of sequencer revenue, thus establishing a robust and growing revenue base as user engagement increases.
Over the past year, Optimism has successfully collected 5,868 ETH in revenue. Previously, all of this revenue was directed to a treasury overseen by token holders. However, under the new governance proposal, Optimism intends to utilize 50% of future Superchain income to purchase OP tokens on a monthly basis for a year. The OP tokens acquired through this process will be returned to the treasury.
#What Benefits Will the Buyback Program Bring?
This buyback mechanism aims to enhance the connection between the OP token and Superchain activities. The monthly token purchase will scale with network revenue, ensuring that as usage increases, the interests of token holders are supported. In addition to this, OP may evolve to take on new responsibilities, such as safeguarding shared infrastructure, overseeing sequencer rotations, and facilitating governance on core protocol functions within an ecosystem that remains under the jurisdiction of token holder oversight.
Moreover, the proposal will provide the Optimism Foundation with greater leeway in managing the remaining ETH revenue alongside current staking initiatives, bolstering efforts toward Superchain advancement. A governance vote related to this proposal is scheduled for January 22. If the community approves the initiative, the buyback program is set to commence in February.