cryptopolitan.com
EigenLayer, an Ethereum-based liquid restaking protocol, experienced a remarkable surge in Total Value Locked (TVL) amounting to $1 billion in just eight hours. This surge came after the protocol announced the temporary removal of its staking caps for three days.
The move aimed to stimulate organic demand within the network and potentially pave the way for a future without staking caps.
EigenLayer temporarily lifts staking cap, TVL surges $1B”
EigenLayer made the pivotal decision to lift its 200,000 Ether staking cap. The purpose was to invite organic demand to its protocol, and it hinted at the possibility of permanently eliminating staking caps in the future. Following this announcement, the protocol witnessed a staggering surge in TVL, increasing from approximately $2.5 billion to $3.58 billion within just eight hours.
A novel approach to staking
EigenLayer distinguishes itself as a protocol that allows investors to earn additional yield on their staked ETH tokens by utilizing them to secure other networks. Currently, the protocol supports liquid staking tokens like Lido DAO’s staked ETH (stETH) and Swell Stated Ether (swETH).
Lido Staked ETH is the most prominent token restaked on EigenLayer, accounting for over $1.2 billion of EigenLayer’s total TVL. Meanwhile, Swell Staked ETH follows closely as the second-largest token on the protocol, contributing to a total TVL of $392 million.
The mechanics of restaking
Restaking operates by offering investors interest in exchange for locking up their liquid staking tokens. These tokens are then used to assist with validation, lending, and liquidity on various blockchain networks.
While EigenLayer has garnered attention for its innovative approach to staked ETH tokens, concerns have emerged from market commentators and developers. They have likened the high volumes of restaking to a form of leverage, raising questions about potential risks.
Vitalik Buterin’s cautionary note
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin raised a red flag in when he warned about the potential systemic risks associated with a significant increase in restaking and the overuse of data or price oracles within the Ethereum ecosystem. His caution underscores the need for responsible and cautious development in the rapidly evolving DeFi space.
EigenLayer’s journey began with the launch of its testnet, followed by the mainnet’s launch two months later on June 14. Since then, the protocol’s TVL has seen exponential growth, registering a remarkable 21,623% increase. This growth reflects the crypto market’s enthusiasm for restaking and the innovative solutions offered by EigenLayer.