> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.gnoswap.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.gnoswap.io/gnoswap-token/xgns.md).

# xGNS

### What is xGNS?

[Governance](/core-concepts/governance.md) in GnoSwap is powered by xGNS, a non-transferable governance token exclusively issued to users who stake $GNS into a single token staking pool. This staking pool functions as voting-power-escrow contracts for the GnoSwap Governance. **The issuing ratio for xGNS:$GNS is 1:1**, meaning the amount of xGNS a user receives equals the amount of $GNS they stake.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Unstaking Period**

A lock-up period of 7 days is triggered once you unstake your xGNS. During this period, the locked xGNS tokens will be ineligible to receive staking rewards and have no voting powers. The unstaking mechanism exists to ensure that the $GNS tokens from which voting power originates are exposed to the full effect of the proposal, adding a layer of "skin in the game".
{% endhint %}

### How to Use xGNS

1. Stake $GNS in the governance staking pool via the [GnoSwap Governance Page.](/user-guide/governance/delegate.md)
2. Receive xGNS corresponding to the amount of $GNS you staked **at a 1:1 ratio.**
3. To vote on a proposal, your address needs eligible voting power self-delegated to it or delegated to you by another address, based on that proposal's delegation history at creation and smoothing-period anchor. A later delegation or redelegation does not immediately add voting power to an existing proposal. If you delegate power to another address, only that delegatee may vote with it; you cannot cast a separate vote or override the delegatee's vote with that same power, even if they abstain. You continue earning a portion of [Protocol Fees](/core-concepts/fees.md#protocol-fees) from your stake, regardless of who receives its voting power.
4. Once you unstake xGNS, **a 7-day lock-up period is applied**. During this time, **that unstaked amount is inactive and cannot be used to vote or earn protocol rewards**.
5. After the 7-day lock-up period, you can claim the principal $GNS you previously staked via the [GnoSwap Governance Page.](https://docs.gnoswap.io/gnoswap-token/pages/mW3A3UFkXbUDfdfxW85w#id-7.-check-your-undelegation-balance) (You can claim protocol rewards at any time regardless of this lock-up.)

The staking mechanism in GnoSwap is designed to incentivize the $GNS holders with the greatest commitment to the protocol's long-term success by granting them governance power. This enables active participation in voting on proposals and influencing the direction of the GnoSwap protocol.