NEXPACE announced in a regulatory filing on the 22nd that it will launch a buyback program for 'NXPC' worth up to $10 million. The program is designed to strengthen a user-centric token virtuous cycle and support the sustainability of the 'MapleStory Universe' ecosystem. 'NXPC' is the native token of the 'MapleStory Universe,' used for rewarding contributions and unlocking items.

Under this program, NEXPACE plans to acquire up to $10 million worth of 'NXPC' from global digital asset exchanges through open market purchases. To manage market impact, the purchases will be conducted in phases over three months, with execution outsourced to an external professional partner.

This decision by NEXPACE is seen as a move to boost confidence in the token ecosystem within the domestic and international Web3 gaming markets. Blockchain-based games have often struggled with token circulation management after launch, leading to ecosystem contraction. Through this large-scale buyback, NEXPACE aims to stabilize token value and extend the influence of the 'MapleStory' IP into the on-chain environment.

The buyback program was designed based on operational data accumulated during the first year since the official launch of the 'MapleStory Universe.' According to NEXPACE, the number of active wallets in the ecosystem exceeded 850k over the past year, with over 66% of them using 'NXPC' on a monthly basis. During the same period, the ecosystem recorded cumulative revenue of 49.1 million NXPC (approximately $31 million). In the first quarter, user in-game spending surpassed the amount of rewards distributed, demonstrating strengthened ecosystem sustainability.

With a total of 8.32 million NXPC burned to date, this buyback program is seen as a measure to establish a healthy token circulation structure as 'MapleStory Universe' evolves into an expanded IP-based on-chain ecosystem. It is also expected to bolster user confidence in the value of 'NXPC.' The 'NXPC' acquired through this buyback program will be held in the project treasury as a resource to ensure the ecosystem's long-term sustainability.

NEXPACE CEO Hwang Sun-young explained, "As "MapleStory Universe" grows, we are focusing on building an ecosystem where user participation and utility are interconnected. This program is part of our effort to create a stable and healthy ecosystem amidst the trend of increasing user participation."

He added, "Marking our first anniversary, we have gained confidence that the project is moving in the right direction and growing. We will continue to support users and builders so they can receive rewards for their contributions within the ecosystem they are building together."