StaFi to Deploy Liquid Staking as a Service Testnet Ahead of 2.0 Mainnet Launch

According to Blockworks, liquid staking protocol StaFi is set to deploy its Liquid Staking as a Service (LSAAS) testnet before the rebrand and mainnet launch of StaFi 2.0. Liquid staking as a service refers to blockchain platforms that provide liquidity by minting a new token representing an underlying staked asset. This new token can be used and traded in DeFi protocols for additional revenue or rewards. The initial StaFi 2.0 testnet will support liquid staking derivatives (LSDs) from Ethereum, EVM layer-2s, and the Cosmos ecosystem. It will enable developers across these networks to experiment with StaFi's latest features and allow the protocol to work on improvements based on user suggestions. StaFi plans to launch its liquid restaked token on testnet in Q2 of this year, with the mainnet launch scheduled for Q3 of 2024. StaFi co-founder Liam Young said in a press release, 'The launch of the StaFi 2.0 testnet is a major milestone in our journey to mainnet. It's also a major boost for layer-1 blockchains seeking easier access to LSD with the vast potential this vertical holds for strengthening network security, decentralization, and opening new opportunities for yield generation.' StaFi was initially developed through Polkadot grants, and its blockchain is on Substrate, a blockchain software development kit (SDK) used to create parachains on Polkadot. The latest rebrand will position the protocol to break free from the Polkadot ecosystem and establish itself as a liquid staking derivative infrastructure platform compatible with multiple blockchain networks. In addition to supporting LSDs on Ethereum, EVM layer-2s, and Cosmos, StaFi is also exploring LSD solutions for Bitcoin, with more information expected in the coming months.