Epochs Explained
Epochs are the operational heartbeat of the Orvex protocol. Every epoch coordinates veORVX voting, emissions allocation, trading fee attribution, and incentive distribution. This fixed cadence ensures governance decisions are predictable, transparent, and resistant to manipulation.
Epoch timing
Each epoch follows a consistent weekly schedule:
- Duration: 7 days
- Start: Thursday, 00:00 UTC
- End: Wednesday, 23:59 UTC
At the start of each epoch, a snapshot of all veORVX account balances is taken to determine voting power for that epoch.
The four phases of an epoch
1. Snapshot
At epoch start, each account's total veORVX balance is recorded, and voting power is fixed for the entire epoch. Changes to locks or balances after this point do not affect voting power until the next epoch.
2. Voting
Votes (manual or delegated) must be submitted before the epoch begins. These votes determine how emissions are allocated across pools or strategies for the epoch. Voting power is based entirely on the snapshot taken at epoch start.
3. Rewards accrual
Throughout the epoch, trading activity generates fees, and incentives and emissions accrue based on vote outcomes and pool performance. Rewards accumulate continuously but are not claimable until the epoch completes.
4. Rewards distribution
At epoch end, rewards become claimable. Distributions are calculated using the epoch snapshot, final vote allocations, and realized pool activity. A new epoch then begins with a fresh snapshot and voting cycle.
Important considerations
Votes and incentives must be submitted before epoch start to affect that epoch. Accounts that do not vote for an epoch do not receive voting-related rewards for that epoch.
All calculations reset at the start of each new epoch. Emissions are recalculated every epoch using the latest vote data.
Why epochs matter
Epochs provide deterministic governance outcomes, fair reward attribution, and a consistent rhythm for protocol participation. They ensure that voting, incentives, and rewards remain aligned and resistant to last-minute manipulation.