Ethereum Staking Overview
When it comes to staking, Ethereum staking takes the crown. With a simple staking setup and an upgraded network (ETH 2.0 to be precise), we’re here to tell you how to start the Ethereum staking.
The much-anticipated upgrade from Eth to Eth 2.0 came with better power efficiency, better security, and better use cases.
Ethereum 2.0 staking is one of those upgrades that has not just improved the staking process but also made it easier for stakeholders to reap the benefits (directly in their wallets).
The process of staking Eth starts with validating transactions and ends with a general improvement of the overall functionality of the Ethereum network.
How to Stake Ethereum (ETH)?
To stake Ethereum, there are a few methods you can resort to, all of which come with their own set of requirements, rewards, and risks.
These methods are either custodial, which means they could be done on a centralized exchange. Or they could be non-custodial, meaning the users have full authority over the selection of the validator and their wallets, categorizing it as a decentralized process.
We’ll show you how to stake Ethereum on both custodial and non-custodial wallets:
Staking Ethereum on a custodial wallet
Step 1 – Open an account in an exchange
Step 2 – Add funds to your account
Step 3 – Understand the staking process
Step 4 – Choose the amount of Ether you want to stake
Step 1 - Open an account in an exchange
To start staking Ethereum, you can open a custodial wallet with exchanges like Binance or Coinbase. This process requires you to verify your identity, so make sure you have your documents handy.
Step 2 - Add funds to your account
Top up your account by adding funds from your bank account and buy Ether.
One thing worth noting here is that most exchanges require you to buy just 1 or 2 ETH to get started, unlike non-custodial wallets that require a minimum of 32 ETH.
Step 3 - Understand the staking process
For different wallets, the staking process is different. For eg., Coinbase requires you to Join the whitelist, while Binance allows you to stake Ethereum without joining any waitlist. The difference exclusively lies in the preference of the wallet(s).
Step 4 - Choose the amount of Ether you want to stake
Staking Ethereum requires no paperwork. However, all custodial wallets will first convert your ETH to ETH 2.0, after which you can start staking.
Staking Ethereum on a non-custodial wallet
Step 1 – Run a node
Step 2 – Sync an execution layer client
Step 3 – Sync a consensus layer client
Step 4 – Import validator keys
Step 5 – Monitor your code
Step 1 - Run a node
Running a node means gathering the required hardware to start solo-staking Ethereum. You’d need a consumer-grade computer and a stable internet connection.
Step 2 - Sync an execution layer client
This step is important for bundling, executing, and creating a chain state management. Some examples include Go Ethereum, Nethermind, or Erigon.
Step 3 - Sync a consensus layer client
This step is responsible for the Proof-of-stake consensus and block seal validity. Some examples include Prysm, Teku, or Lighthouse.
Step 4 - Import validator keys
The validator keys that are backed by 32 ETH live inside the validator client. Every key is a validator, and to run them, run the ./ethd keys import, with the new keystore-m JSON files in .eth/validator_keys.
Step 5 - Monitor your code
To maintain your node, you can use an Ethereum client like Teku, which is an Ethereum 2.0 client that’s built to meet institutional and security requirements.
Also read: Where to buy Ethereum?
Popular video guides on Staking Ethereum (ETH)
Best Places to Stake Ethereum (ETH)
1. Binance
Binance is the largest global crypto exchange. With over 500 coins to trade and stake, you can easily stake Ethereum at Binance. You’d require a minimum of 0.1 ETH to start staking Ethereum on Binance.
Pros
- Users can stake amounts less than 32 ETH
- Users can retain most of their liquidity due to the BETH tokens
- There are no slashing risks
Cons
- You don’t control your private keys
- You don’t keep 100% of your liquidity
2. CoinBase
Coinbase, with an APR of up to 5%, has revolutionized the crypto industry over the last few years. This is a very simple and easy-to-use platform that allows you to buy, sell, and trade digital assets and tokens. The platform recently added Ethereum 2.0 staking as well. Staking Ethereum on Coinbase offers customers to earn rewards as well.
Pros
- The APR right now is up to 5%, more as compared to other exchanges
- Minimal risk for staking Ethereum
Cons
- The withdrawal period for Ethereum is comparatively longer than other exchanges
3. eToro
Being one of the largest platforms for trading, eToro has slowly gained traction over the years. For you to stake Ethereum on eToro, you’d need a minimum of $25, something that other exchanges don’t really need.
Pros
- Ethereum could be bought via a wire or bank transfer
- Staking Ethereum is really easy on eToro
Cons
- Staking Ethereum here is comparatively difficult as compared to other exchanges
Also read: Ethereum Pricing Prediction
Benefits of Staking Ethereum (ETH)
- A source of passive income – Staking Ethereum is almost the same as depositing your money in traditional finance spaces. There’s no additional work required from your end in managing your ETH and earning rewards.
- Has a comparatively lower risk – Ether is a stable staking option as compared to other cryptocurrencies. Because of its popularity and security, it has a competitive edge over other tokens.
- More support and flexibility with the introduction of ETH 2.0 – With the recent merge, Ethereum now allows withdrawals for your staked tokens, something that it didn’t offer before.
Most frequently asked questions on Ethereum Staking
How much Ethereum do you need to stake it?
In order to stake Ethereum, you need 32 ETH to get started for non-custodial wallets. However, some exchanges and staking pools can allow you to do with a lesser amount.
Is staking Ethereum worth it?
Staking Ethereum is definitely worth it if you want to contribute to the community, validate the network, and improve its security. Plus, with the introduction of ETH 2.0, you can also withdraw your staked Ethereum.
Can I stake Ethereum myself?
Yes, you can stake Ethereum yourself. To do so, you’d need a stable internet connection, a good computer, and a minimum amount of Ethereum (depending on the exchange you’re using) to stake Ethereum yourself.
What is the best place to stake Ethereum?
The best place to stake Ethereum is to do it without a node on any of the crypto exchanges, which include Binance, Coinbase, eToro, and OKEx.
How much tax do I have to pay on staking Ethereum?
Ethereum staking attracts the same tax as your crypto gains in India. You’re liable to pay 30% of the total profits made through staking, which also includes surcharges and a cess.
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