Lighter protocol surges 19% on plans to enter the $100B US perpetuals market amid rising trading activity.

Lighter (LIT), a decentralized perpetuals trading protocol, rose 19% to a new high of $1.62 after its CEO confirmed plans to enter the US perpetuals market, a $100 billion opportunity. The company is pursuing regulatory licensing and maintaining a presence in Washington, aiming to participate despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty. Market interest increased with $63.8 million flowing into LIT perpetual markets and positive funding rates, while protocol earnings reached $50.4 million, signaling strong revenue growth. On-chain data and sustained investor inflows suggest bullish sentiment and potential for further upside in the near term.