The MetaMask wallet provider has introduced a new staking service that allows Ethereum users to launch their own validator node for a specific fee. Starting from January 18, users can make validator stakes through MetaMask Portfolio, requiring a deposit of 32 ETH, which is approximately $78,752 USD at current exchange rates.

The unique feature of this service is the absence of the need for a pool or special equipment. Consensys, the company managing the service, claims to offer secure node management for users, optimized staking rewards, and risk minimization.

This new service may attract newcomers and decentralization enthusiasts as it addresses the centralization issue associated with major liquid staking providers like Lido. It also eliminates the need to purchase hardware for running a personal Ethereum node and reduces the risk of disconnection due to internet failures.

Consensys emphasizes that in over two years of operation, there have been no significant penalties despite managing over $2 billion worth of ETH through more than 33,000 validators. Staking through MetaMask currently yields an annual return of 3.8%, but the platform charges a 10% commission on validator rewards.

Lefteris Karapetsas, the founder of the crypto tracker Rotkiapp, finds the new service interesting but considers the 10% commission unattractive compared to other available options. The yield from staking through MetaMask, after deducting fees, is comparable to Lido, at 3.4%.

Lido is a dominant platform for liquid staking, with around 9.3 million ETH worth $22.9 billion locked, accounting for roughly 40% of the total staked ETH of 28.8 million. In addition to decentralized staking providers, Ethereum holders can use centralized exchanges like Coinbase, which take a 25% share of staking rewards.