Stacks plans transition to algorithmic PoX-6 Bitcoin staking

Stacks is planning a transition from its current Bitcoin-staking mechanism, PoX-5, to a more decentralized version known as PoX-6. The PoX-5 upgrade, which activated on July 30, 2026, utilizes a bootstrap phase where the Stacks Endowment curates key parameters. This phase includes a 3,000 BTC capacity, a 5% minimum STX ratio, and a target annual percentage yield of approximately 3% in BTC.

PoX-6 is envisioned as the fully algorithmic and decentralized end state of the staking model. According to Stacks Labs CTO Adriano Di Luzio, the upgrade aims to replace curated parameters with protocol-driven settings. Proposed mechanisms for PoX-6 include automated on-chain yield adjustments and a permissionless, consensus-driven blind auction model for bonding capacity to prevent front-running and gaming.

The current PoX-5 system allows participants to earn BTC-denominated yield through a self-custodial process, pairing Bitcoin timelocks with STX locks while maintaining control of their private keys. Stacks also plans to receive institutional support from Anchorage Digital during these developments.