ACI challenges Aave Labs over $86M use as $51M grant debated on Feb 25

On February 25, 2026, the Aave Chain Initiative criticized Aave Labs' spending and accountability, citing $86 million in funding and several underperforming initiatives. Aave Labs responded hours later, highlighting milestones since 2017 and arguing forum activity is not a proxy for impact. BGD Labs said it will leave the Aave DAO on April 11, 2026, as AAVE gained over 5% in the last 24 hours.