What are Liquid Staking Platforms?
Liquid staking platforms enable users to stake their tokens on proof-of-stake blockchains while maintaining liquidity through derivative tokens. These platforms issue tokenized representations of staked assets, allowing holders to trade, transfer, or use them in other DeFi protocols without waiting for the traditional unbonding period. Tools in this category include staking services, token issuance mechanisms, and protocols that facilitate the seamless conversion between staked assets and their liquid derivatives. The primary users are developers building staking infrastructure, DeFi projects integrating staking derivatives, and end-users seeking to maximize capital efficiency. Key characteristics include secure validator management, transparent token economics, and compatibility with multiple DeFi ecosystems. Related categories include staking infrastructure and DeFi lending platforms. Developers should consider liquid staking platforms when they need to offer staking rewards without sacrificing asset liquidity or want to integrate staked asset derivatives into broader financial products.