A new report by Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, reveals the Solana blockchain is having a break-through moment driven by its liquid staking model. This report examines the current state of liquid staking on Solana—particularly exchange-launched liquid-staked SOL, key players in the space, and why and how the liquid staking model is poised to mobilize the masses to the Solana ecosystem.
The leading proof-of-stake blockchain has been a popular destination for memecoins, grassroot projects and other DeFi protocols in 2024. However, limited by its current market cap and reach, the mainstreaming of Solana is still underway. Bybit’s report underscores the significance of liquid staking, particularly led by the rise of exchange-backed liquid staking tokens (LST), such as Bybit’s own bbSOL, in driving the next chapter of growth on Solana.
Key takeaways:
- Guiding Retail Investors to Solana: Mainstream exchange-backed LSTs will break down barriers and become the de-facto bridge between casual users and the DeFi opportunities in Solana. Bybit is first-in-market having recently launched bbSOL, the world’s first exchange to launch a LST on Solana.
- Blending Growth and Potential: Report findings show that Solana’s innovative liquid staking model is a step ahead of traditional staking with more flexibility and liquidity, providing users with improved yield and access. Its potential also speaks volume with a current liquid staking ratio of only 6.5%, allowing significant room for growth. Additionally, various projections see the market reaching $6-10 billion soon.
- The Power of Memecoin: The rise of memecoins on Solana creates a space for retail investors and may open up DeFi opportunities, potentially driving liquid staking adoptions further upwards.
- Challenges Ahead: Sustaining growth in the ecosystem will require better user education and addressing smart contract risks.
Overall staking on Solana far outpaces Ethereum with over $57 billion worth of SOL staked, equivalent to a staking ratio of around 68%.
The report also offers an in-depth view of the liquid staking landscape on Solana and the dynamics between the driving forces.
