Lido is fast rising and becoming a force in the cryptocurrency investment space. This 2025 Lido review takes a deep dive into this decentralized staking exchange. We’ll unpack how Lido is reshaping the decentralized finance (DeFi) space by offering innovative liquid staking solutions for major blockchain networks.
From its user-friendly interface to its impact on the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem, we’ll examine what sets Lido apart in the competitive world of staking platforms.
If you’re looking to maximize your crypto holdings through staking or seeking to understand the growing importance of liquid staking in DeFi, our analysis aims to give you a clear picture of Lido’s strengths and limitations.
Key Takeaways
- With Lido, you can stake on multiple supported networks
- Lido’s simple process and user-friendly platform cater to both new and experienced DeFi users
- Code reviews and a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) enhance asset safety
- Lido’s blog and documentation help you stay updated and leverage educational resources
- Factor in the 10% staking rewards fee when planning your investment strategy to optimize returns
- If residing in the U.S., note Lido’s non-acceptance of U.S. users and explore alternative platforms
Pros and Cons of Lido
Here are the main pros and cons of Lido:
Pros of Using Lido
- Simple, clean, and user-friendly interface
- Offers a simplified staking system
- Offers a lot of staking related features
- Site is secured with 256 Bit SSL Encryption
- Commendable community and social media presence
Cons of Using Lido
- Does not accept US users
- You can only stake 3 coins
- No welcome offer for new entrants
- No other investment program apart from staking
- No licensing and insurance data
Lido – Brief Overview
Lido is a DeFi platform that specializes in liquid staking services. Its primary purpose is to make staking more accessible and flexible for cryptocurrency holders, particularly those interested in participating in network validation, without the technical complexities or large capital requirements often associated with staking.
The platform’s core service revolves around allowing users to stake their Ethereum, Polygon, and Solana tokens while maintaining liquidity. When you stake through Lido, you receive tokenized versions of your staked assets (such as stETH for Ethereum), which can be used in other DeFi applications. At the same time, your original tokens continue to earn staking rewards.
Lido’s approach aims to solve the liquidity problem traditionally associated with staking, where tokens are locked up for extended periods. By providing these liquid staking derivatives, Lido enables users to potentially earn staking rewards while still having the flexibility to use their assets in the broader DeFi ecosystem.
Who founded Lido?
Lido was founded in 2020, emerging as a response to the growing demand for accessible and efficient staking solutions in the DeFi space. The platform was created to address the challenges faced by individual investors looking to participate in network validation, particularly for Ethereum 2.0.
Vasiliy Shapovalov, Konstantin Lomashuk, and Jordan Fish (known as “Cobie”) co-founded Lido, bringing diverse expertise to the project. Shapovalov’s software engineering background has been crucial in developing Lido’s technical framework, while Lomashuk has focused on strategic partnerships in the industry.
Fish, a well-known figure in the crypto space, has contributed his industry insights. As a decentralized protocol, Lido continues to benefit from a wide range of contributors beyond its founding team.
Lido operates under a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) structure. This approach distributes decision-making power among token holders, aligning with the ethos of decentralization in the crypto space.
Regarding market position, Lido has quickly become a significant player in the liquid staking sector. However, direct comparisons of trading volume aren’t applicable since Lido isn’t a traditional exchange. Instead, its impact is better measured by the total value of assets staked through the platform, which has grown substantially since its early days.
Lido’s achievements include:
- Becoming one of the largest staking providers for Ethereum
- Expanding its services to include Polygon and Solana staking
- Developing innovative tokenized staking assets like stETH, which have gained widespread adoption in the DeFi community
The platform has also formed partnerships and integrations with various DeFi protocols, allowing staked assets to be used across multiple applications. This interoperability has contributed to Lido’s prominence in the broader DeFi space.
Lido’s rapid growth and adoption highlight the increasing interest in liquid staking solutions. By simplifying the staking process and providing liquidity for staked assets, Lido has played a significant role in making network participation more accessible to a wider range of users in the progressive decentralized finance industry.
Lido – Features/Services
Layout and Ease of Use
Navigating Lido’s platform is easy, thanks to its clean and intuitive interface. The site’s design emphasizes simplicity, making it accessible if you’re new to DeFi staking.
Lido’s layout features a straightforward menu structure and clear labeling of functions, which contribute to a streamlined staking process. The interface’s fluid design allows you to quickly transition between different sections of the platform, enhancing efficiency when you’re managing multiple staked assets or reviewing analytics.
While the platform’s core features are easy to understand, you might need time to fully grasp the intricacies of staking mechanics and governance participation. To address this, Lido offers educational resources to help you become more familiar with these advanced concepts.
Available Trading Pairs
Lido doesn’t offer traditional trading pairs as it’s not a conventional cryptocurrency exchange. Instead, it focuses on staking services for a select group of cryptocurrencies. As of 2025, Lido supports staking for three major blockchain networks:
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Polygon (MATIC)
- Solana (SOL)
When you stake these assets through Lido, you receive corresponding tokenized versions:
- stETH for staked Ethereum
- stMATIC for staked Polygon
- stSOL for staked Solana
These tokenized assets represent your staked position and can be used in various DeFi applications while your original assets continue earning staking rewards.
Order Types Available
Lido operates differently from traditional crypto exchanges, so it doesn’t offer the typical order types you’d find on trading platforms. Instead, it focuses on providing staking services for specific cryptocurrencies.
Here’s how you can interact with the platform:
- Staking: you can deposit your ETH, MATIC, or SOL to start earning staking rewards
- Unstaking: when you’re ready, you can request to withdraw your staked assets
- Claiming rewards: you can collect your staking rewards periodically
These processes are straightforward and don’t involve complex order types. The simplicity of these actions aligns with Lido’s goal of making staking accessible to a wide range of users in decentralized finance.
Lending/borrowing Features
Lido’s primary offering revolves around staking services rather than traditional lending or borrowing. When you stake through Lido, you’ll earn rewards based on network conditions and validator performance.
One of Lido’s key advantages is its flexible staking periods. You’re not locked into any fixed terms, allowing you to stake your assets for as long as you prefer. This flexibility gives you more control over your investment strategy.
Unlike some DeFi platforms that offer a wide range of services, Lido focuses on optimizing the staking experience for a select group of major cryptocurrencies. This specialized approach allows the platform to refine its staking processes and potentially offer more competitive rewards.
By concentrating on staking, Lido aims to make this aspect of DeFi more accessible to a broader audience. Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or an experienced investor, you can easily participate in network validation and earn rewards without the need for extensive technical knowledge or large capital investments.
Supported Wallets
Lido doesn’t offer its proprietary wallet. Instead, it supports integration with a variety of popular third-party wallets, giving you the flexibility to use your preferred storage solution.
You can connect several well-known wallets to Lido, including:
- MetaMask
- OKX Wallet
- Exodus
- Taho
- Blockchain.com
- Zerion
- ZenGo
- Ambire
- Phantom
- Ledger
- Coinbase Wallet
- Trust Wallet
- imToken
- Brave Wallet
This wide range of supported wallets ensures that you can easily interact with Lido’s staking services regardless of your preferred crypto storage method. Whether you’re using a browser extension, mobile app, or hardware wallet, you’ll likely find a compatible option.
By supporting multiple wallet types, Lido makes it convenient for you to manage your staked assets alongside your other cryptocurrency holdings. This approach aligns with the platform’s goal of making staking accessible and seamless within the broader DeFi ecosystem.
Supported Coins
Lido has carved out a niche in the DeFi space by concentrating on staking services for a handful of prominent blockchain networks. Rather than casting a wide net of supported coins, the platform has honed its expertise on three key players in the cryptocurrency ecosystem: Ethereum, Polygon, and Solana.
While this list might seem limited compared to some exchanges that support hundreds of cryptocurrencies, Lido’s approach is to specialize in these high-profile networks. This focus allows the platform to optimize its staking processes for these specific assets.
Lido doesn’t currently support staking for newer or more niche cryptocurrencies. If you want to stake less common assets, you’ll need to explore other platforms. However, for many users, these three major cryptocurrencies cover a significant portion of their staking needs.
User Profiles
Lido doesn’t feature traditional user profiles or a social aspect like some cryptocurrency exchanges or social trading platforms. The platform prioritizes privacy and focuses solely on providing staking services.
When you use Lido, your interaction with the platform is primarily through your connected wallet. There’s no public profile or username associated with your account that other users can view or interact with.
This approach means you won’t have access to information about other users or their staking activities. Your staking experience on Lido is individual and private, which can be beneficial if you prefer to keep your crypto investments confidential.
The absence of user-profiles aligns with Lido’s streamlined focus on staking services. Instead of social features, the platform provides analytics and data about the overall staking pool, giving you insights into the performance of the assets you’ve staked without compromising individual user privacy.
Web3
Lido operates as a DeFi staking solution, inherently placing it within the Web3 ecosystem. While the platform doesn’t explicitly market itself as a “Web3 platform,” its core functionalities align with Web3 principles.
As a DeFi protocol, Lido enables you to participate in blockchain networks through staking without relying on centralized intermediaries, supporting the Web3 vision of a decentralized internet.
Key Web3 aspects of Lido include:
- Decentralized governance through a DAO
- Interoperability of tokenized staking assets
- Open-source development
- Non-custodial services
By using Lido, you’re actively participating in the Web3 movement, contributing to network security through staking, and potentially influencing the protocol’s future through governance.
Lido – User Experience
How easy is it to use Lido.fi? We’ll examine how Lido caters to its users, from the initial sign-up steps to the platform’s core features. We’ll also explore the resources Lido provides to help you navigate the world of DeFi staking more effectively.
Functionality
Lido’s platform operates smoothly, providing a smooth staking experience. The interface’s clean design contributes to its overall functionality, allowing you to navigate between different sections of the site with ease.
The platform’s focus on a limited number of assets contributes to its stability. By specializing in several specific cryptocurrencies, Lido can optimize its processes and minimize potential technical issues.
While no major lags or persistent problems have been reported, it’s important to note that, like any DeFi platform, Lido may occasionally experience brief delays during times of high network congestion on the underlying blockchains. These instances are typically short-lived and related to broader network conditions rather than issues with Lido itself.
The platform’s analytics features perform well, providing real-time data on staking pools and rewards without noticeable delays. This responsiveness is crucial for users who rely on up-to-date information to make informed decisions about their staked assets.
Registration Process
Lido takes a unique approach to user interaction that sets it apart from traditional cryptocurrency platforms. There’s no formal registration process or account creation required to use the service.
To start using Lido, you simply need to connect your compatible wallet to the platform. This can be done with just a few clicks, making the entry process remarkably straightforward. You won’t need to provide personal information or go through lengthy sign-up forms.
Lido doesn’t implement Know Your Customer (KYC) or Anti-Money Laundering (AML) procedures. This means you can begin staking without submitting identification documents or passing background checks. While this enhances privacy and accessibility, it’s important to be aware of your local regulations regarding cryptocurrency activities.
The absence of a traditional registration process aligns with Lido’s decentralized nature and its focus on user privacy. However, it’s worth noting that while Lido itself doesn’t require KYC, the wallets or exchanges you use to acquire cryptocurrencies before staking may have their own verification processes.
This streamlined approach makes Lido particularly accessible for those new to DeFi, as you can start participating in staking activities almost immediately after connecting your wallet.
Educational Resources Available
Lido provides a variety of educational resources to help you understand its staking services and the broader DeFi ecosystem. These materials are helpful to both newcomers and experienced users looking to deepen their knowledge.
The platform maintains an informative blog (https://blog.lido.fi/) where you can find articles on recent developments, staking strategies, and updates about the Lido ecosystem. These posts often break down complex topics.
For those interested in the technical aspects of Lido’s operations, the platform offers a research section (https://research.lido.fi/). Here, you can explore in-depth analyses and proposals related to the protocol’s development and governance.
Lido also provides comprehensive documentation (https://docs.lido.fi/) that serves as a technical guide to the platform’s features and functionalities. This resource is particularly useful if you’re looking to understand the intricacies of Lido’s staking mechanisms.
For quick answers to common questions, Lido offers a FAQ section (https://lido.fi/faq) on its website. This resource covers a range of topics, from basic staking concepts to more specific queries about Lido’s operations.
By offering these diverse educational materials, Lido aims to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about staking and participating in the DeFi space.
Is Lido Safe?
Lido employs several measures to ensure the safety of its platform and user assets. Key security features include 256-bit SSL encryption, which helps protect data transmitted between you and the platform.
This industry-standard encryption is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality of your interactions with Lido.
As a non-custodial platform, Lido doesn’t directly hold your funds. Instead, your assets remain in your connected wallet, which adds a layer of security by keeping you in control of your cryptocurrencies. This approach aligns with Web3 principles of user sovereignty.
Lido has faced security challenges typical of DeFi platforms but has not experienced major hacks resulting in significant user fund losses. In May 2022, the platform swiftly resolved an oracle-related incident affecting stETH price reporting. In February 2023, it proactively addressed a vulnerability in its stETH token contract that could have allowed unauthorized minting.
Additionally, In May 2024, Lido reported a security incident involving one of its node operators, Numic. An unauthorized party gained access to a developer’s machine, raising concerns about the potential exposure of encrypted validator key backups.
Numic responded swiftly by halting new deposits and systematically removing potentially affected keys. This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the DeFi space and the importance of rapid response protocols.
Lido operates without implementing KYC or AML procedures. This means you can use the platform without providing personal identification, which enhances privacy but may raise regulatory concerns in some jurisdictions.
As of 2025, Lido hasn’t obtained any specific licenses or certifications. This lack of traditional regulatory oversight is common in the DeFi space but may be a consideration for users accustomed to more regulated financial services.
The platform’s security approach focuses on smart contract audits and open-source development, allowing for community scrutiny of its code. While this can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities, it also means that users should stay informed about any updates or audits to the protocol.
While Lido implements important security measures, it’s crucial to approach its services with an understanding of the inherent risks in DeFi platforms and to practice good personal security habits, such as using hardware wallets and staying informed about the latest developments in the ecosystem.
Lido Fees/Interest Rates/Lending Rates
Lido’s fee structure is straightforward, primarily focusing on the rewards earned from staking activities.
For Ethereum and Polygon staking, Lido charges a 10% fee on the staking rewards you earn. This means that 90% of the rewards generated by your staked ETH or MATIC go directly to you, while the platform retains 10% to cover operational costs and further develop the protocol.
It’s important to note that the actual staking rewards can vary based on network conditions and validator performance. Lido doesn’t guarantee a fixed interest rate, as the rewards are dependent on the overall health and activity of the respective networks.
When it comes to transaction costs, staking Ethereum incurs a fee of approximately $7.56. This one-time fee is charged when you initially stake your ETH. In contrast, Polygon staking on Lido is currently free, with no transaction fee applied.
If you decide to withdraw your staked ETH, you’ll face a fee of around $27.07. This higher withdrawal fee reflects the complexity and gas costs associated with unstaking on the Ethereum network.
By maintaining a simple fee structure, Lido aims to make staking accessible and transparent. However, it’s always a good idea to consider these fees concerning the potential rewards and your investment strategy when deciding to stake through any platform, including Lido.
| Fee Type | Description |
| Staking Rewards Fee | Lido charges a 10% fee on your staking rewards, which is divided between node operators and the protocol’s treasury. |
| Lido DAO Token (LDO) Withdrawal Fee | The fee is typically charged by the platform or wallet used for the transfer, and it’s expressed in satoshis per byte (sat/b) or gas. The amount may vary depending on current network conditions. |
| Tracking Withdrawals | Users can track the status of their Lido DAO Token (LDO) withdrawal using the provided transaction ID or hash. |
Types of fees
How to Stake ETH with Lido
Staking your Ethereum (ETH) with Lido is a simple process. Follow these simple steps to get started:
Step 1 – Visit the official Lido staking portal
Open your web browser and navigate to the official Lido staking portal. It’s important to ensure you’re on the correct website. The official URL is stake.lido.fi. Be cautious when double-checking the URL to avoid any potential security risks.
Step 2 – Connect your ETH wallet
Once you’re on the Lido staking portal, locate and click on the “Connect Wallet” button. Lido supports various Ethereum wallets, including popular options like Metamask, MyEtherWallet, and more. Select your preferred wallet to establish a secure connection.
Upon successful connection, you will be able to view your ETH balance within the Lido platform.
Step 3 – Choose your staking amount
Lido allows you the flexibility to stake any amount of ETH, including even the smallest quantities. Simply enter the amount of ETH you wish to stake and click the “Stake” button.
Keep in mind that gas fees may apply to the transaction. In some cases, staking a larger amount of ETH can be more cost-efficient. However, the decision ultimately depends on your preferences and objectives.
Step 4 – Confirm the transaction
After clicking the “Stake” button, your wallet will prompt you with a transaction confirmation. Verify the details of the transaction and confirm that it will proceed. This action initiates the staking process.
Step 5 – Receive stETH rewards
Upon confirmation, your wallet will receive stETH tokens, which represent your staked ETH on the Ethereum mainnet. Your stETH balance will automatically grow as you earn daily staking rewards.
How does Lido work?
Here is a brief explanation of Lido’s functions. Lido protocols batch user tokens to stake with validators. There’s also routing to staking contracts. These tokens are then routed to network staking contracts. Minting stTokens. Users receive stTokens corresponding to their staked amount, representing their stake.
- Users start earning staking rewards as their assets contribute to the network.
- When users decide to unstake, they burn the stToken to begin the withdrawal process.
The withdrawal process follows network-specific rules to return the stake and rewards to the user.
Supported Countries
The platform’s services are not available in the following jurisdictions:
- United States of America
- Belarus
- Burundi
- Crimea and Sevastopol
- Cuba
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Iran
- Iraq
- Libya
- North Korea
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Syria
- Venezuela
- Zimbabwe
These restrictions are primarily due to international sanctions and local regulations governing cryptocurrency activities.
For users in other countries not listed above, Lido’s services are generally accessible. However, it’s important to note that the legal status of cryptocurrency and DeFi services can vary significantly between jurisdictions.
Remember that while Lido itself doesn’t implement geoblocking or strict verification processes, the wallets or exchanges you use to acquire cryptocurrencies before staking on Lido may have geographical restrictions.
Always stay informed about the latest regulatory developments in your area regarding cryptocurrency and DeFi activities to ensure you’re using Lido in compliance with local laws.
Deposit and Withdrawal Methods
When using Lido, your deposit and withdrawal options are directly tied to the supported cryptocurrencies and the wallets you use to interact with the platform.
Lido accepts deposits in the form of:
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Polygon (MATIC)
- Solana (SOL)
These are the only cryptocurrencies you can stake through Lido, aligning with its focused approach to staking services.
To deposit, you’ll need to connect a compatible wallet containing the cryptocurrency you want to stake. Here’s how to do it in three simple steps:
- Connect your wallet to Lido’s platform
- Select the amount of crypto you want to stake
- Confirm the transaction in your wallet
When you’re ready to unstake your assets, the withdrawal process involves requesting your staked tokens back. The time it takes to receive your unstaked assets can vary depending on the network conditions and the specific cryptocurrency.
For Ethereum withdrawals, there’s a waiting period due to the nature of Ethereum staking. This period can last several days or even weeks, influenced by factors such as blockchain network congestion and the number of validators exiting the system.
It’s important to note that no fiat currencies are accepted for deposits or withdrawals. All transactions on Lido are conducted in cryptocurrency.
It’s worth remembering that network congestion can affect the gas fees for transactions, particularly on the Ethereum network. These fees are separate from Lido’s service fees and can fluctuate based on network activity.
Customer Support and Feedback
The support team’s responsiveness can be variable. Some users have reported experiencing longer wait times when seeking help via email, which might be frustrating if you’re dealing with time-sensitive issues.
User experiences with Lido’s customer support have been mixed. While some appreciate the detailed responses they receive, others have expressed frustration with the response times. The support team’s knowledge of the platform’s technical aspects is generally well-regarded, particularly when it comes to explaining complex staking concepts.
Users often highlight these strengths:
- The platform’s user-friendly interface
- The simplicity of the staking process
- The quality of educational resources provided
On the other hand, users commonly express dissatisfaction with:
- Longer than expected wait times for support responses
- Lack of real-time support options
- Occasional confusion about the unstacking process, particularly for Ethereum
Lido’s decentralized nature and focus on self-service through detailed guides may contribute to the limited direct support options. While this approach works well for many users comfortable with DeFi concepts, it might present challenges for those new to the space or facing complex issues.
While Lido’s support may not be as immediately accessible as some centralized platforms, it generally provides thorough assistance once reached. The platform’s strong community presence on platforms like GitHub and social media can also serve as additional resources for troubleshooting and guidance.
Lido Review – Is It Worth It?
Our examination of Lido reveals a platform that has established itself as a significant player in the DeFi staking space. Many users appreciate Lido’s streamlined approach to liquid staking and its integration with major blockchain networks.
Some users point out issues such as extended withdrawal periods and the limited selection of supported cryptocurrencies. These critiques underscore potential areas for enhancement in Lido’s services.
Regarding Lido’s safety and security, the platform has implemented various protective measures. While no system is entirely foolproof, Lido’s focus on smart contract audits and transparent operations has helped build trust within the community. Many users consider Lido a legitimate option for participating in DeFi staking.
We’re interested in hearing about your firsthand experiences with Lido. Have you used the platform for staking? What aspects of Lido’s offerings did you find beneficial or challenging?
Your perspectives could be useful for others weighing Lido as a staking solution. Various Lido opinions and your collective feedback contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the platform’s role in the evolving DeFi ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
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01.
How does Lido compare to competitors?
Lido stands out in the liquid staking market with its focus on user-friendly services and broad integration across the DeFi ecosystem. Unlike competitors offering a wide range of crypto services, Lido specializes in staking for major blockchain networks. This focused approach allows Lido to optimize its staking processes and offer competitive rewards. However, users looking for a one-stop platform for all their crypto needs might find Lido’s offerings limited compared to platforms with broader service offerings.
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02.
Is Lido worth the investment?
Whether Lido is worth the investment depends on your financial goals and risk tolerance. For those interested in participating in network validation without technical expertise or large capital commitments, Lido offers an accessible entry point. The platform’s liquid staking tokens provide flexibility, allowing you to earn staking rewards while maintaining liquidity. However, as with all crypto investments, it’s important to consider market volatility, regulatory changes, and your overall investment strategy before committing funds to staking through Lido.
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03.
What do users say about Lido's customer service?
Users have reported both positive and negative experiences with Lido’s support team. Many appreciate the detailed responses they receive when contacting support, particularly regarding technical aspects of staking. However, some users report longer-than-expected wait times for email responses, which can be frustrating for time-sensitive issues. The lack of live chat or phone support is a common point of criticism. Users tend to find the support team knowledgeable but wish for more immediate assistance options.
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04.
Are there any hidden fees with Lido?
Lido strives for transparency in its fee structure, with no hidden charges reported by users. The platform clearly states its fee on staking rewards and any associated transaction costs. However, it’s important to remember that while Lido’s fees are straightforward, external factors like network congestion can affect transaction costs, particularly on the Ethereum network. These fluctuating gas fees, while not hidden, can sometimes surprise users unfamiliar with blockchain transaction mechanics.
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05.
What are the most common complaints about Lido?
Common complaints about Lido often revolve around the waiting period for unstaking Ethereum, which can be longer than some users expect. Some users express frustration with the limited customer support options, particularly the lack of real-time assistance. Occasional confusion about the intricacies of liquid staking tokens and their use in the broader DeFi ecosystem is also reported. Additionally, some users would like a wider range of supported cryptocurrencies beyond the current offerings.
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06.
How reliable is Lido based on reviews?
Based on user reviews, Lido is generally considered reliable for its core staking services. Users frequently praise the platform’s ease of use and the consistency of staking rewards. The reliability of Lido’s smart contracts, which have undergone multiple audits, is often highlighted positively. However, some users express concerns about the broader risks associated with DeFi platforms. Overall, while most reviews indicate satisfaction with Lido’s reliability, users are advised to understand the inherent risks of cryptocurrency staking.
