# $MONO utility

The MONO token serves as the native utility and governance token of the Mono Protocol ecosystem, designed with multiple interconnected use cases that drive network growth and value accrual.

1\. **Universal Gas & Protocol Fees** MONO tokens power all protocol operations through a comprehensive fee structure:

* **Paymaster Fees**: Universal gas payments across all supported chains
* **Routing Fees**: Optimal execution and MEV protection services
* **Liquidity Lock Fees**: Guaranteed execution through bonding mechanisms
* **API/SDK Usage**: Developer access to protocol infrastructure

**Staking Benefits:**

* **Tiered Discounts**: Higher stake amounts unlock progressively lower fees
* **Priority QoS**: Faster execution and priority routing for stakers
* **Volume Rewards**: Additional discounts based on protocol usage
* **Enhanced Features**: Access to premium protocol capabilities

2\. **Security & Governance via Staking** MONO staking provides dual benefits of network security and governance participation:

**Network Security:**

* **Operator Bonds**: Bundlers and orchestrators stake MONO for economic security
* **Slashing Mechanisms**: Malicious behavior results in stake penalties
* **Fee Distribution**: Honest operators earn protocol fee revenue shares
* **Quality Assurance**: Economic incentives ensure reliable service

**Governance Rights:**

* **Asset Listings**: Vote on new token and chain integrations
* **Risk Parameters**: Set limits for fast settlement and Liquidity Locks
* **Fee Structures**: Determine protocol fee levels and distribution
* **Protocol Upgrades**: Approve technical improvements and new features

3\. **Execution Bonds for Instant Settlement** Solvers and routers lock MONO tokens as performance bonds to enable instant execution:

**Bond Mechanics:**

* **Performance Guarantee**: Locked MONO ensures execution completion
* **Success Premiums**: Successful execution earns additional MONO rewards
* **Failure Penalties**: Incomplete execution results in bond slashing
* **Insurance Pool**: Slashed tokens contribute to user protection fund
