alchemist

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Alchemist DeFi and staking protocols

Getting Started

Staking is a way to earn rewards by participating in blockchain networks. Think of it as a digital savings account where you:

Lock up your cryptocurrency to support network operations

Earn rewards in return for your participation

Help secure the network through your stake

Our comparison tool helps you evaluate different staking protocols by analyzing:

APY rates and potential returns

Risk scores and security metrics

Historical performance and TVL data

Common staking types include:

Solo staking - Running your own validator node

Delegated staking - Participating through a validator

Liquid staking - Receiving tradeable staking derivatives

Staking minimums vary by protocol and type:

Solo staking often requires larger amounts (e.g., 32 ETH)

Liquid staking protocols typically have lower minimums

Some protocols allow staking with any amount

Understanding Metrics

TVL (Total Value Locked) is a crucial metric in DeFi that represents:

The total amount of assets locked in a protocol

An indicator of user trust and protocol adoption

Higher TVL generally indicates more stability and liquidity in the protocol.

Our risk assessment system evaluates multiple factors:

Smart contract audits and security measures

Protocol history and track record

Known vulnerabilities and incident history

Staking APY (Annual Percentage Yield) can vary based on:

Network participation and total staked amount

Protocol rewards and inflation rates

Market conditions and token value

We maintain current data through:

Real-time updates for APY and TVL data

Daily updates for risk assessments

Manual verification of protocol changes

Advanced Staking

Liquid staking allows you to maintain liquidity while staking by:

Receiving tradeable tokens representing your stake

Earning staking rewards while maintaining asset flexibility

Using staked assets in other DeFi protocols

Restaking allows for additional utility of staked assets:

Using staked assets to secure multiple networks

Earning additional rewards through restaking

Understanding increased risk exposure

Staking can affect governance participation:

Delegation of voting rights in some protocols

Maintaining governance rights with liquid staking

Protocol-specific governance mechanisms

Risks & Security

Slashing is a penalty mechanism that can affect staked assets:

Penalties for validator misbehavior or downtime

Protection measures implemented by protocols

Impact on staking rewards and principal

Network upgrades can impact staking in several ways:

Changes to staking requirements or rewards

Temporary pausing of withdrawals during transitions

Performance improvements affecting returns

Network congestion can affect staking operations:

Higher transaction fees for staking operations

Delayed withdrawals or reward distributions

Potential impact on APY calculations

Technical & Network

Networks vary in their staking characteristics:

Different consensus mechanisms and requirements

Varying reward rates and distribution schedules

Unique security models and risk profiles

Staking rewards may have tax implications:

Rewards might be treated as income in some jurisdictions

Capital gains considerations for staking derivatives

Consult with a tax professional for specific advice

Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our support team