> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ascendlaunch.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ascendlaunch.gitbook.io/docs/trading-fee-breakdown.md).

# Trading Fee Breakdown

Ascend has two distinct fee streams: a **1% trading fee on launched tokens** and **separate swap fees**. Each serves a different purpose within the protocol.

Within each fee stream, the applicable recipient is paid first. Ascend’s remaining share becomes **net protocol revenue** and enters the HYPE and KNTQ allocation framework.

## Token trading fee

The 1% token trading fee provides ongoing revenue to the applicable creator, approved takeover operator, or deployer.

| **Launch or operating arrangement**                       | **Recipient**              | **Share of the token’s trading fees** |
| --------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------- | ------------------------------------- |
| Default (no approved active creator or takeover operator) | Token deployer             | 25%                                   |
| Ascend-approved active creator                            | Approved creator           | 50%                                   |
| Ascend-approved takeover                                  | Approved takeover operator | 50%                                   |
|                                                           |                            |                                       |

{% hint style="info" %}
These arrangements are alternatives, not cumulative payments from the same fee.
{% endhint %}

The Ascend team determines eligibility for the active-creator share and approves token takeovers. Further, creators are able to allocate a dynamic amount of their creator fees to a separate claim to help fund a future HyperCore listing. 

These percentages apply to the trading fees collected, not to the full value of the trade. For example, a 50% creator share means half of the 1% fee.

This framework provides ongoing compensation tied to a token’s activity while establishing a defined path for approved operators to assume responsibility for existing projects.

## Separate swap fees

Swap fees are a separate revenue stream. Their exact rate remains under development, with pricing intended to be competitive.

Referral rewards are funded exclusively from these swap fees. After referral payments, Ascend’s remaining swap-fee revenue enters the HYPE and KNTQ allocation framework.

Creator payments and referral rewards therefore come from separate fee pools.

{% hint style="warning" %}
The **1% token trading fee is not an all-in trading cost**. Separate swap fees and network fees may apply.
{% endhint %}


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