# 5.3 Flexible stake ＆ Locked stake

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\&#xNAN;**$ECT has two staking methods, known as Flexible stake and Locked stake.**

**Flexible stake** allows users to withdraw their staked $ECT and receive rewards at any time after the shortest staking period of one week.

**Locked stake** allows users to lock their $ECT for three, six, nine, twelve, fifteen, or eighteen months. After the lock-up period ends, users can withdraw their staked $ECT and receive additional rewards. If a user wishes to withdraw their staked $ECT during the lock-up period, they will need to pay a certain percentage of penalty.