Everything about cryptocurrency staking

Staking is a process by which holders of certain cryptocurrencies can participate in the operation of a blockchain network and be rewarded accordingly.

Introduction

The cryptocurrency world offers a wealth of opportunities for investors and enthusiasts alike. Crypto staking is one of these possibilities. In this article, we'll introduce you to the concept of staking in detail, explain how it works and why it can be interesting for crypto holders.

What is Crypto Staking?

Staking is a process by which holders of certain cryptocurrencies can participate in the operation of a blockchain network and be rewarded accordingly. Staking allows users to block their funds in a specific wallet to secure the network and validate transactions. When a user decides to engage in staking, they must deposit their funds in a staking-enabled wallet. These funds are then staked or "gambled" to support the smooth running of the network. In return, users are rewarded with interest or additional tokens. The higher the amount staked, the greater the potential rewards.

Staking can be done through various options, including centralized exchanges such as Binance, Bybit, Crypto.com, as well as staking platforms such as Feel Mining, or decentralized protocols and DApps such as Lido and Yearn Finance. The earnings generated from staking can fluctuate and are indicated as APY (Annual Percentage Yield), which represents the annual percentage return.

Staking is an attractive method for novices wishing to get involved in the world of cryptocurrencies without having to actively trade. By simply staking their funds, users can benefit from passive income, participate in network governance and strengthen the security of the blockchain. However, it's important to thoroughly research specific staking projects and understand the potential associated risks before committing to the practice.

The differences between Mining and Staking

Mining and staking are two distinct methods used in blockchain protocols to secure the network and validate transactions. Mining involves solving complex mathematical problems, requiring powerful hardware resources and high energy consumption. Miners are rewarded with new tokens or transaction fees for their work. In contrast, staking is based on holding tokens in a wallet, where participants support the network by locking in their tokens. Rewards are distributed according to the number of tokens held, and help to validate transactions. Staking is often considered more energy-efficient and less costly in terms of hardware investment than mining. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the objectives and resources of the participants.

The different types of tokens used for staking

When it comes to participating in crypto staking, it's important to understand the different types of tokens used in this process. Each blockchain may have its own tokens specific to staking.

1. Proof of Stake (PoS) Tokens

Proof-of-stake tokens are the most widespread in the world of staking. These include Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT) and others. They use the PoS consensus mechanism, in which validators are selected according to the quantity of tokens they hold and are willing to stake. These tokens are generally required to participate in the staking process and receive rewards.

2. Masternode Tokens

Some cryptocurrency projects, such as Dash (DASH), Pivx (PIVX), Flux (FLUX), Syscoin (SYS), etc. use masternodes, which are computer servers dedicated to running the network. Holders of masternode tokens can put them into play to become masternodes and benefit from additional rewards in exchange for the services they provide to the network.

3. Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) Tokens

Tokens using the Delegated Proof of Stake consensus mechanism, such as Tron (TRX) or Eos (EOS), enable holders to vote for delegates who will validate transactions and produce blocks. Users can stake their tokens and vote for delegates, and in return receive rewards based on their participation.

4. Internal network token

Some blockchain networks have their own internal token that can be used for staking. Examples include Binance Coin (BNB), Cosmos (ATOM) and VeChain (VET). These tokens can be used to secure the network, participate in governance and receive rewards according to the quantity staked.

The rewards and risks of Staking

Crypto staking offers potential rewards to participants, but it's also important to consider the risks associated with the practice. In this section, we'll explore the (sometimes too) attractive rewards of staking, as well as the risks participants could face.

1. Staking rewards

- Token rewards: One of the main motivations for participating in staking is the opportunity to earn additional tokens. Depending on the project, participants may receive interest, transaction fees or newly issued tokens as a reward for participating in the network.

- Passive income: Staking offers an opportunity to generate passive income by holding and blocking tokens. This can be particularly attractive for those looking to grow their investments without having to engage in active trading activities.

- Participation in governance: In some cases, staking participants may also have the opportunity to participate in network governance. This means they can vote on proposed changes to the protocol or other aspects, and thus help shape the future of the project.

2. Risks associated with Staking

- Risk of loss of funds: When you participate in staking, you lock your funds into a specific portfolio. There is a risk that the value of the tokens in play will decrease, which could lead to a financial loss if you decide to end staking before the end of the agreed period.

- Security risk: Although staking can enhance network security, there is always a security risk inherent in participating in a blockchain network. It is essential to choose reputable staking projects and use secure wallets to minimize this risk.

- Liquidity risk: Once you've staked your funds, they may be locked in for a set period of time. This means that you may have difficulty accessing your tokens in the event of an urgent need for liquidity. It's important to bear this in mind, and to ensure that you have the appropriate financial management and allocation in place.

- Project risk: As with any crypto investment, there is a risk associated with the project itself. Some staking projects may be less reliable than others, which could lead to financial losses if the project fails or turns out to be a scam.

Attractive returns, high risks - the case of UST stablecoin

The example of the UST stablecoin and its collapse in May 2022 highlights the close link between high returns and high risk. The Terra protocol offered an annualized return of 19.5% for UST staking, which attracted many investors. However, when the cryptocurrency market took a tumble, the downward pressure on UST intensified. UST holders panicked and sought to sell their tokens en masse, causing a downward spiral and leading to a loss of confidence in the ecosystem. This clearly demonstrates that high returns are often accompanied by high risks. Investors need to be cautious and aware that attractive returns can be a sign of increased volatility and greater exposure to market fluctuations. Research is needed to understand these risks before committing to high-yield investments.

The difference between flexible and locked Staking

1. Flexible staking

Flexible staking allows participants to withdraw their staked tokens at any time without delay or restriction. This means that tokens are not blocked for a specific period and remain available for immediate transactions or transfers. Flexible staking participants can therefore decide to withdraw all or part of their staked tokens according to their needs. The returns offered by this type of staking are generally lower than those offered by locked staking.

2. Locked staking

Locked staking involves the blocking of staked tokens for a predetermined period. This may be for a few days, a few weeks, a few months or even several years. Participants in locked staking agree to keep their tokens inaccessible during this period. Locked staking is often rewarded with higher rates of return than flexible staking, as participants commit to supporting the network over the long term. If participants decide, for whatever reason, to interrupt their locked staking before the predetermined period, they incur a penalty such as the loss of interest accrued up to the time of interruption.

Whatever the type of staking, it is always advisable to read the conditions to which participants wishing to stake their funds are subject.

How to start Crypto Staking?

Steps to start crypto staking:

1. Choose the right blockchain network: First of all, you need to choose the blockchain network on which you want to stake. There are many staking projects available, each with its own rules and requirements.

2. Obtain stakable tokens: Make sure you have tokens that are compatible with the blockchain network you've chosen. If you don't already have tokens, you may need to buy them on an exchange platform before you can put them into play.

3. Select centralized exchange, staking platform or decentralized protocol: To get started with staking, you'll need to choose between various options, such as using a centralized exchange, a dedicated staking platform or a decentralized protocol. Each option offers advantages and disadvantages, and it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. In the following section, we'll explore these different possibilities in detail.

4. Start the staking process: Follow the platform's steps to start the staking process. This may involve choosing a staking service provider, configuring specific parameters, or blocking your tokens for a set period.

A few more recommendations

1. Look for solid projects: Before committing to staking, research the project thoroughly. Analyze as many criteria as possible, such as its team, history, protocol and long-term vision. Choose reputable, well-established projects to maximize your earnings while guaranteeing maximum security.

2. Diversify your investments: It's advisable to diversify your tokens across several projects and staking platforms. This reduces the risk of loss in the event of platform bankruptcy, project scams, token devaluation or technical problems.

3. Keep up to date with network news: Stay informed of updates and developments on the blockchain network on which you are staking.

4. Monitor performance: Keep an eye on your staking performance, including rewards earned, rates of return and associated fees. This will enable you to adjust your strategy if necessary.

By following these steps and applying the appropriate recommendations, you'll be well positioned to start staking and maximize your profits. As a reminder, staking also involves risks. So it's essential to do your due diligence and make decisions based on your own objectives, financial means and risk tolerance.

Conclusion and outlook for the future of Staking

In conclusion, crypto staking offers token holders an interesting opportunity to participate in blockchain networks and generate passive income. However, it's important to understand the ins and outs, carry out thorough research and make rational, considered decisions to make the most of staking while minimizing the risks.

As far as the future of crypto staking is concerned, the outlook is promising. Staking is becoming increasingly popular, with new projects and emerging networks offering staking opportunities. What's more, technological improvements continue to be made to make staking more accessible, secure and profitable.

Sources :

Disclaimer : This is not financial advice. The purpose of the site is to inform readers. Any type of investment involves risk. Do your due diligence and do your own research on the projects featured on the site. Act as a good father and do not invest more than your objectives or financial means allow you. In this regard, read our page: Warning about virtual currencies.

Some articles on the site contain affiliate links, and using them to register from the site allows the development of the site by collecting commissions. By doing so, you also make yourself eligible for a welcome bonus such as a voucher or fee reduction, for example.

Table of contents