What is Staking?
Staking is like earning interest on your cryptocurrency - but with blockchain security built in.
How It Works
On Proof of Stake blockchains like Ethereum, the network needs validators to:
- Verify transactions are valid
- Add new blocks to the chain
- Keep the network secure
Validators must "stake" (lock up) crypto as collateral. If they act honestly, they earn rewards. If they cheat, they lose their stake (slashing).
Types of Staking
Native Staking
Lock your tokens directly with the network:
- ETH staking on Ethereum (requires 32 ETH)
- Solana staking on Solana
Delegated Staking
Stake through a validator without running a node:
- Pool your tokens with others
- Share the rewards proportionally
Liquid Staking
Stake and get a tradeable token in return:
- Stake ETH → receive stETH
- Use stETH in DeFi while earning rewards
What to Expect
| Network | Typical APY |
|---|---|
| Ethereum | 3-5% |
| Solana | 5-8% |
| Cosmos | 15-20% |
🥩 Staking is one of the safest ways to earn yield in crypto. You're helping secure the network and getting paid for it.