Staked Ether

Definition ∞ Staked Ether refers to the quantity of Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency, ETH, that users have committed within a smart contract to participate in the network’s proof-of-stake consensus mechanism. By staking ETH, individuals assume the role of validators, contributing to the blockchain’s security and transaction processing in exchange for rewards. This process bolsters network security and decentralization. It signifies a commitment to the network’s operational integrity.
Context ∞ Staked Ether is a central topic in cryptocurrency news, particularly since Ethereum’s transition to a proof-of-stake system. Reports often monitor the total amount of ETH staked, the distribution of validators, and the yields generated from staking activities. Discussions also cover the implications of liquid staking derivatives and the overall security and decentralization benefits or concerns associated with this consensus mechanism.