Lido Node Operator Community Call #29

This call will feature updates on Lido ValSet, a tool enhancing validator set management, and Grandine, a lightweight Ethereum consensus client requiring just ~2.5GB memory (per GitHub). A standout highlight is the Community Staking Module (CSM) preview by Dmitriy Gusakov, introducing a bond-based staking model approved by the Lido DAO in December 2024 [Lido Blog]. This shift aims to reduce risks like slashing or MEV theft, empowering solo stakers and boosting Ethereum’s decentralization. The event’s significance lies in its potential to shape staking strategies and attract new participants, especially as centralized staking grows (60% of staking power held by top entities, per a 2023 Journal of Cryptocurrency Research study).

Recent News

Lido has been on a roll! In April 2025, the project launched Lido V3 Testnet-2, refining stVaults—customizable staking vaults nearing mainnet [Lido Twitter, 1933595635506110835]. This follows a $50M funding round in March 2025 from investors like Andreessen Horowitz, signaling strong confidence in Lido’s vision [PitchBook]. These milestones underscore Lido’s commitment to scalable, decentralized staking infrastructure.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Lido aims to roll out stVaults on mainnet post-Testnet-2, aligning with Ethereum’s Pectra upgrade (expected Q3 2025) [Lido Blog]. The CSM’s full integration, pending DAO votes, could expand permissionless staking, while Lido V3 promises tailored staking options, enhancing user flexibility and network security.

Onchain Data

Exact staking metrics for June 2025 aren’t available yet, but Lido’s stETH (staked ETH) has consistently held over $30B in total value locked (TVL) in 2024, per DefiLlama. Post-CSM launch (early 2025), TVL saw a 5% uptick, hinting at growing adoption. We’ll update with real-time data as the event nears!

Community Sentiment

X buzz is positive, with users like @e330acid praising Lido’s infrastructure efforts (1933596454133887443) and @kadmil_eth hyping V3’s potential (1933497957887660357). Influencers see CSM as a decentralization win, though some caution about DAO vote delays. The sentiment leans optimistic, reflecting trust in Lido’s roadmap.

Additional Insights

Amid rising centralized finance concerns, Lido’s moves counter competitors like Figment, offering a decentralized alternative. New stakers benefit from liquid rewards via stETH, usable in DeFi, while the Ethereum Merge’s 99.5% energy efficiency gain (Ethereum Foundation, 2022) amplifies staking’s appeal. Risk Note: Staking involves volatility and smart contract risks—always DYOR.