> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://orogold-1.gitbook.io/oro/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://orogold-1.gitbook.io/oro/5.-staking-and-yield.md).

# 5. Staking and Yield

$GOLD is not just a store of value: it’s now a source of yield.

Staking your $GOLD allows you to participate in established gold leasing markets, generating gold-denominated returns without relying on debt, derivatives, or synthetic assets. ORO partners with licensed brokers and institutional gold finance providers who manage these leases with vetted lessees.

**5.1 How It Works**

<figure><img src="/files/fYFSo8vm6we9tQQrAPE5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

When you stake your $GOLD, it is allocated to licensed brokers who facilitate short-term gold leases to:

* Refiners
* Bullion traders
* Jewelry manufacturers
* Market makers

Lessees use the gold as inventory or working capital, and in return, provide a gold-denominated return to the stakers. ORO collects this yield and redistributes it proportionally to all stakers.

**5.2 Lease Structure**

These are true physical leases, not debt instruments or synthetic derivatives.

* **Ownership**: Leased gold remains the legal property of the staked $GOLD holder
* **Restrictions**: Lessees may not sell, pledge, or rehypothecate the gold
* **Protection**: In case of lessee insolvency, leased gold is **not part of their estate**
* **Flow**: No futures, no paper gold — only real-world physical gold flow

**Key Terms:**

* **Underlying Asset**: Physical gold, tokenized on Solana and vaulted securely
* **Lessees**: Institutional users of gold with strong operating track records
* **Lock-up**: 12 months (shorter terms in development)
* **Returns**: Gold-denominated lease income, distributed monthly
* **Insurance**: All gold under leases is insured against theft and damage

**5.3 Yield Payouts**

* Yield is distributed monthly, in the form of additional $GOLD
* Rewards are automatically deposited to the wallet
* Returns vary depending on market demand and lease terms, typically in the 3 to 5% APY range

**5.4 Lockup and Unstaking**

To ensure predictable lease durations and protect yield generation:

* Staking requires a **12-month lockup period**
* During this time, staked $GOLD cannot be redeemed or transferred
* After 12 months, you may choose to:
  * Continue earning yield
  * Unstake and withdraw $GOLD to your wallet
  * Redeem for USDC or physical gold

A partial early exit mechanism is under consideration, depending on demand and market structure. ORO is also working on shorter duration leases.

**5.5 No Seperate Token (For Now)**

ORO does **not** issue a separate staked token (such as stGOLD) at this time. Staked $GOLD remains associated with your wallet and accrues yield directly.

A fungible staked token may be introduced in the future to unlock DeFi integrations and liquidity while preserving redemption rights and auditability.