Missing out is equivalent to a loss? Here's how to maximize the efficiency of using Gate contract points

Trading contracts on Gate, each opening and closing position not only results in profit or loss fluctuations but also quietly accumulates an invisible wealth—Gate Contract Points. Since launching this incentive system in October 2025, over 264,000 users have received airdrop rewards worth approximately 3.7 million USDT. The highest accumulated value exchanged through points for a single account has exceeded 2,600 USDT.

However, a harsh reality is that many users only see points as “something that can be exchanged,” ignoring the strict 15-day validity rule, which leads to points expiring unused. In Gate’s points system, “hoarding” is the least efficient behavior.

Rethink Points: They’re Not Cash, But Your “Access Ticket”

Before discussing “maximizing efficiency,” it’s essential to correct a core misconception: Gate Contract Points cannot be directly withdrawn or transferred. They are more like a “proof of participation” within the Gate ecosystem.

Their value lies in quantifying your daily trading activity and converting it into assets with real value. According to official rules, every 400 USDT of contract trading volume earns 1 point, and daily snapshots of your USDT and BTC holdings can earn additional “position rewards.”

Core Rule: 15-Day Validity

Ignoring this part, all the points earned earlier could be wasted. Each point is valid for 15 days from the date of issuance. The system uses a FIFO (First-In, First-Out) consumption principle, and expired points are automatically invalidated and cannot be recovered.

Many users focus only on total points but don’t realize that, for example, 150 points may expire in 3 days. The first principle of maximizing efficiency is: don’t just look at the total; pay attention to “about to expire” labels.

• Operational Tip: Review and clear near-expiry points in rolling 5–7 day cycles. Treat points like “fresh milk,” not “fine wine”—consume them before their expiration date.

Four Strategies to Maximize Value (Ranked by Potential Return)

Since points cannot be directly withdrawn, how to make the most of them? Here are proven core redemption paths as of February 2026:

1. Prioritize Redeeming Popular Airdrops (High-Growth Strategy)

This is the most imaginative use of Gate Contract Points. Gate regularly hosts “Contract Points Airdrop” events, allowing users to exchange points for popular tokens.

• Example: In the 76th airdrop, spending 15 points could get 3 GT tokens. Previously, users exchanged points for new assets like PUMP, DEEP, generating over 2,400 USDT in profit for a single account.
• Strategy: Follow official announcements, especially during new asset launches (TGE), when points have the strongest purchasing power.

2. Exchange for GUSD or USDT (Indirect Cash-Out Strategy)

This is the most straightforward way to realize value.

• Logic: Points cannot be withdrawn directly, but you can exchange points for GUSD, then withdraw GUSD—these are two separate actions.
• Example: In the 77th airdrop, points could be used to get 25 GUSD.
• Strategy: This step converts “points rights” into “actual assets,” suitable for risk-averse users.

3. Redeem for Position Trial Funds / Experience Vouchers (Low-Risk Testing Strategy)

Ideal for users wanting to test new trading strategies without risking too much capital.

• Example: Some events allowed exchanging 20 points for a USDT-denominated position trial voucher worth 100 USDT.
• Strategy: Use trial funds to open positions; profits can often be withdrawn, effectively using points to seek risk-free gains.

4. Indirect Fee Offset (Cost Optimization Strategy)

Although points cannot directly deduct fees like points cards, converting them into cash vouchers or stablecoins can directly supplement your account funds.

• Data: For monthly trading volumes over 500,000 USDT, estimated monthly points earned are around 25,000, worth about 125 USDT.
• Effect: Combining this with VIP fee discounts can significantly reduce your overall trading costs.

Three Major Red Lines to Avoid

• Red Line 1: Attempting to transfer or trade points. Points are strictly bound to UID; any transfer attempts may trigger account risk controls.
• Red Line 2: Using bots or APIs to generate volume. Quantitative trading, copy trading, bot trading, and sub-accounts’ trading volume usually do not count toward points and may even disqualify you.
• Red Line 3: Ignoring “balance snapshot” timing. The system snapshots assets daily at 07:59:59 (UTC+8). Transferring assets before the snapshot resets your position points for that day.

Conclusion

Smart traders never complain that points can’t be withdrawn. They focus on two things:

1. Use up points before they expire.
2. Among various exchange options, choose the most valuable at the moment.

By cycling “trade positions to earn points -> exchange for popular airdrops/stablecoins -> withdraw or reinvest,” you can truly maximize the value of each contract operation. Now, open your Gate App and check which points are about to expire.