Terminal Supply Epoch
The terminal supply epoch is the final phase of a blockchain's economic lifecycle, beginning when the maximum supply cap is reached and no new tokens are created. During this period, the network must sustain itself entirely through transaction fees, as block rewards are no longer available.
This transition represents a significant shift in the incentive structure, as validators become purely service providers compensated by market demand for block space. The success of a protocol in the terminal epoch depends on its ability to generate sufficient transaction volume and fee revenue to maintain its security.
This phase is a long-term milestone that tests the ultimate viability and adoption of the network's economic model.