What is Rocket Pool ETH?
Rocket Pool ETH (rETH) is a liquid staking token within the Rocket Pool protocol, representing staked ETH along with the staking rewards earned. It provides a decentralised and permissionless staking solution for Ethereum, enabling users to earn rewards without the need to run a full node or lock their ETH entirely.
How does Rocket Pool ETH work?
Rocket Pool operates on the Ethereum 2.0 blockchain using the Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. It leverages a network of decentralised node operators who validate transactions. Users can stake as little as 0.01 ETH and receive rETH tokens, which represent their staked assets and earn rewards. The value of rETH appreciates over time, reflecting the accrued staking rewards.
What are the potential use cases for Rocket Pool ETH?
Potential use cases for Rocket Pool ETH include:
- Decentralised Finance (DeFi) applications: rETH can be used within DeFi ecosystems to gain yield or as collateral for loans.
- Staking and yield farming: Provide opportunities for earning yield through staking.
- Liquidity provision in decentralised exchanges: Use rETH as a liquidity token.
- Collateral in borrowing protocols: rETH can be a token leveraged in borrowing against staked assets.
What is the history of Rocket Pool ETH?
Rocket Pool was conceptualised by Dave Rugendyke and Darren Langley in 2017. Key milestones in its development include:
- 2017: The conception and initial whitepaper drafting, followed by a public project announcement.
- 2018 to 2020: Several testnet launches leading to integration of staking programs and governance via RPL tokens.
- September 2022: Official mainnet launch solidifying its position as a leading decentralised staking solution. Major updates such as The Merge compatibility and node operator incentives have been additional advancements in its technology.