Aave governance revenue hit $140 million in 2025, exceeding the prior three years combined. Founder Stani Kulechov explained his $15 million token purchase did not influence a recent governance vote. Critics questioned whether the timing could have affected a vote on brand ownership and revenue splits. The debate focuses on revenue allocation and control of key brand assets. In December, over $10 million in swap fees from CoW Swap went to Aave Labs, not the DAO treasury, sparking community backlash.

In accordance with CoinEdition, Aave DAO generated $140 million in revenue in 2025, surpassing the combined total of the previous three years. Founder Stani Kulechov addressed controversy over his $15 million AAVE token purchase, clarifying it was not used to influence a recent governance vote. Critics raised concerns that the timing of the purchase could have swayed a heated vote on brand ownership and revenue distribution. The dispute centers on how Aave’s revenue is allocated and who controls key brand assets. Earlier in December, members raised alarms after swap fees from a new CoW Swap integration were routed to Aave Labs instead of the DAO treasury, diverting over $10 million annually from the community.