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Staking Pools on Blockchains

Author

Listed:
  • Gersbach, Hans
  • Mamageishvili, Akaki
  • Schneider, Manvir

Abstract

On several proof-of-stake blockchains, agents engaged in validating transactions can open a pool to which others can delegate their stake in order to earn higher returns. We develop a model of staking pool formation in the presence of malicious agents and establish existence and uniqueness of equilibria. We then identify potential and risk of staking pools. First, allowing for staking pools lowers blockchain security. Yet, honest stake holders obtain higher returns. Second, by choosing welfare optimal distribution rewards, staking pools prevent malicious agents from receiving large rewards. Third, when pool owners can freely distribute the returns from validation to delegators, staking pools disrupt blockchain operations, since malicious agents attract most delegators by offering generous returns.

Suggested Citation

  • Gersbach, Hans & Mamageishvili, Akaki & Schneider, Manvir, 2022. "Staking Pools on Blockchains," CEPR Discussion Papers 17580, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:17580
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Delegation; Blockchain; Governance;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C72 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Game Theory and Bargaining Theory - - - Noncooperative Games
    • D02 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Institutions: Design, Formation, Operations, and Impact
    • D60 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - General
    • G23 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Non-bank Financial Institutions; Financial Instruments; Institutional Investors

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