A Guide to Liquid Staking on Solana (LSTs & LRTs)

Introduction

Liquid staking has emerged as a game-changer for Solana users who want to earn staking rewards while maintaining liquidity. Unlike traditional staking, where funds are locked, liquid staking enables users to stake SOL and receive tradable tokens in return. This guide explores Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs), Liquid Restaking Tokens (LRTs), and the top platforms offering these services.

1. What is Liquid Staking?

Liquid staking allows users to stake SOL while receiving an equivalent token representing their staked assets. These tokens can be used in DeFi, traded, or redeemed later for staked SOL plus rewards.

Key Benefits:

• Earn staking rewards without locking funds.
• Use staked assets in DeFi protocols.
• Increased capital efficiency and liquidity.

2. Understanding Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs) and Liquid Restaking Tokens (LRTs)

LSTs (Liquid Staking Tokens)

LSTs are issued when users stake SOL with a liquid staking provider. These tokens accrue rewards and can be used across DeFi platforms.

LRTs (Liquid Restaking Tokens)

LRTs represent restaked assets in liquid staking protocols that support additional layers of staking or yield strategies. LRTs are gaining popularity for maximizing yield opportunities.

3. Top Liquid Staking Platforms on Solana

Several platforms offer liquid staking services on Solana. Here are the most notable ones:

1. Marinade Finance (mSOL)

• One of the largest liquid staking providers on Solana.
• Users receive mSOL, which can be used in DeFi or converted back to SOL.
• Rewards auto-compound.

2. Jito (JitoSOL)

• Offers MEV-optimized staking for better yield.
• Users receive JitoSOL, which earns staking rewards and MEV revenue.

3. BlazeStake (bSOL)

• Provides decentralized staking with low fees.
• bSOL can be used in various DeFi protocols.

4. Lido (stSOL)

• A well-known liquid staking provider across multiple blockchains.
• Users receive stSOL, which is widely supported in DeFi.

4. Risks and Considerations

While liquid staking provides flexibility, it comes with risks:

• Smart Contract Risks – Funds could be at risk if the staking protocol is exploited.
• Slashing Risks – Validators may get penalized, affecting rewards.
• Price Volatility – LST and LRT prices may fluctuate against SOL.

5. How to Start Liquid Staking on Solana

1. Choose a Liquid Staking Platform – Select from Marinade, Jito, BlazeStake, or Lido.
2. Stake Your SOL – Connect your wallet and stake your SOL to receive LSTs.
3. Use Your LSTs – Provide liquidity, lend, or trade them in DeFi.
4. Unstake When Needed – Redeem LSTs back to SOL based on platform rules.

Conclusion

Liquid staking on Solana allows users to earn rewards while keeping their assets liquid. With multiple LST and LRT options available, choosing the right platform depends on yield rates, security, and DeFi integrations. As the Solana ecosystem grows, liquid staking is expected to play an even bigger role in DeFi.

Stay updated with the latest developments in Solana liquid staking for maximum yield and security!