The Ethereum Merge represents one of the most significant upgrades in blockchain history—an evolution from energy-intensive proof-of-work (PoW) to a more sustainable proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. As this pivotal transition approaches, OKX is committed to ensuring a seamless experience for all users. This comprehensive update outlines key timelines, service adjustments, and proactive steps you can take to safeguard your assets during the Merge.
Understanding the Ethereum Merge Timeline
The Merge is not a single event but a two-phase process: Bellatrix and Paris. Each phase plays a crucial role in aligning Ethereum’s execution and consensus layers.
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Bellatrix Upgrade – September 6, 2022 (UTC)
The first step, Bellatrix, is a consensus layer upgrade on the Beacon Chain. It activates at epoch 144,896 and prepares the network for integration with the Ethereum Mainnet. This upgrade makes the Beacon Chain “Merge aware,” enabling coordination between the old PoW chain and the new PoS system.
Paris Upgrade – Around September 15, 2022 (UTC)
The second and final phase, Paris, marks the actual transition. Execution occurs when Ethereum’s Total Terminal Difficulty (TTD) reaches 58,750,000,000,000,000,000,000. At this point:
- The Ethereum Mainnet merges with the Beacon Chain.
- Proof-of-work mining ceases permanently.
- Ethereum becomes a fully proof-of-stake blockchain.
This shift is expected around September 15, 2022, though the exact timing depends on network conditions.
How OKX Is Preparing for the Merge
To maintain platform stability and user security, OKX will implement temporary service adjustments during both upgrade windows.
Suspension of ETH and ERC-20 Deposits and Withdrawals
OKX will temporarily suspend deposits and withdrawals for ETH and all ERC-20 tokens during the following periods:
- September 6, 2022 (UTC) – During the Bellatrix upgrade
- September 15, 2022 (UTC) – During the Paris upgrade
These pauses ensure transaction integrity while nodes synchronize across the upgraded network. We will provide precise start and end times in advance through official announcements.
Possible Outcomes During the Merge
Two primary scenarios could unfold during the transition:
Scenario A: No Fork Occurs
If no hard fork takes place:
- ETH continues as a unified asset on the PoS chain.
- OKX will resume all ETH and ERC-20 deposit, withdrawal, and cross-chain bridge services once network stability is confirmed.
Scenario B: A Proof-of-Work Fork Emerges
In the event of a contentious hard fork resulting in a new PoW-based token:
- OKX will recognize the PoS chain token as "ETH".
- Any token issued on the continuing PoW chain will be treated as a forked asset.
Forked tokens may be distributed via an airdrop at a 1:1 ratio based on your ETH holdings at the time of the snapshot. These tokens will undergo OKX’s standard listing review process before trading becomes available. Users will be notified separately if and when trading is enabled.
Note: If you hold outstanding ETH loans—including negative equity in multi-currency margin mode—at the time of the snapshot, repayment may be required using forked tokens under Scenario B. To avoid complications, consider repaying loans in advance.
Impact on Trading Services
OKX has designed its systems to minimize disruption across all trading products.
Spot Trading
Spot markets for ETH and ERC-20 tokens will remain operational throughout the Merge. Price volatility is expected; we encourage prudent risk management.
Margin Trading
- Trading functionality for ETH cross and isolated margin pairs will continue uninterrupted.
- However, ETH margin borrowing and VIP borrowing services will be suspended temporarily.
- Interest rates may be adjusted prior to suspension based on market dynamics—updates will be shared in advance.
Futures & Perpetual Swaps
All ETH derivatives—including ETHUSDT, ETHUSD perpetual swaps, and futures contracts—will continue trading normally. However, due to potential volatility, OKX may implement additional risk controls such as:
- Adjusting margin tier levels
- Modifying funding rates and price limits
- Updating index price constituents and mark prices
- Revising margin discount rate tiers in multi-currency and portfolio margin modes
These actions aim to protect traders from extreme market swings.
Options Trading
ETHUSD options trading will not be affected by the Merge.
Grow Services: Staking, Savings & More
Your participation in yield-generating products remains secure.
Savings, Staking, Dual Investment & Smart Gain
These services are unaffected by the Merge. Your staked ETH will be included in any relevant snapshots. However, given increased price volatility during contentious forks, it's wise to assess your risk exposure.
Loan Services
ETH used as collateral or held as liability will be accounted for in snapshots. In the event of a fork:
- Collateral may split across chains.
- Liabilities may require repayment in forked tokens.
Plan accordingly to maintain healthy loan-to-value ratios.
ETH 2.0 Staking
- New staking subscriptions will be paused on September 6 and September 15.
- Existing stakers will continue earning rewards normally via BETH distribution.
- Whether staked ETH qualifies for forked token claims depends on how the PoW chain handles ETH2 smart contracts—details will follow in a dedicated announcement.
DeFi Mining
- Project subscriptions remain active.
- On-chain staking and redemption functions will be paused during upgrade windows.
- Profit distributions may experience short delays post-Merge.
Fiat & Convert Services
Both fiat-to-crypto purchases and ETH conversion services will operate without interruption during the Merge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will I lose my ETH during the Merge?
A: No. The Merge is a protocol upgrade, not a token swap. Your ETH balance will carry over to the new PoS chain. If a fork occurs, you may also receive forked tokens.
Q: Do I need to do anything to receive new tokens if there’s a fork?
A: If a PoW fork happens and OKX supports it, eligible users will automatically receive forked tokens based on their snapshot balance—no action required.
Q: Can I still trade ETH during the Merge?
A: Yes. Spot, margin, futures, and options trading will continue. However, deposits and withdrawals will be paused temporarily for network stability.
Q: What happens to my staked ETH or BETH?
A: Your staked assets remain safe. Rewards continue accruing. Any eligibility for forked tokens depends on chain-specific rules—we’ll clarify this afterward.
Q: Why is OKX suspending margin borrowing?
A: This precaution helps manage systemic risk during high-volatility periods. It ensures fair pricing and protects users from liquidation spikes.
Q: How will OKX decide whether to list forked tokens?
A: All new assets go through our rigorous listing review, assessing security, decentralization, community support, and compliance before approval.
👉 Secure your assets and prepare for blockchain milestones with trusted infrastructure.
The Ethereum Merge is more than a technical upgrade—it's a transformation toward greater scalability, sustainability, and security. While opportunities arise, so do risks. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate this shift confidently.
For ongoing updates, visit the OKX Support Center. No other links or promotional content are included—your focus stays on clarity and control.
OKX remains your reliable partner through every phase of blockchain evolution.