Learning the friendly way

Have you ever sent an invoice and then spent the next week chasing your payment? Or worse… have you ever lost crypto by sending it to the wrong address!? If you have, well, you’re not the only one. And that’s exactly what Request has come to fix.

Traditional systems for the most part still rely on an awkward mix of middlemen, manual data entry, and accounting software that belongs in a different era. On top of all that, human error will always be a factor. Request (REQ) aims to cut through these inefficiencies by offering a blockchain solution for creating, tracking, and settling payments.

Whether you're just dipping your toes into crypto or you're already swimming in the deep end of Web3 finance, Request stands out for more than one reason. So, let’s dive in and find out!

How Request Actually Works (Without Jargon)

At its core, Request Network allows someone to issue a secure, immutable payment request through blockchain technology. Think of it this way: instead of manually sending funds to a wallet address (which carries the very real risk of one mistyped character sending your money into the digital void), the payee generates an invoice through a smart contract. The payer then approves it with a single transaction. Simple, clean, and significantly less prone to expensive mistakes.

This model reduces common payment errors, improves recordkeeping for everyone involved, and creates what financial people love to call "a single source of truth." Because all payment data lives on-chain, financial histories become independently verifiable without needing to trust third-party payment processors or wade through conflicting records.

It goes without saying, your accountant’s job gets significantly simpler. Payment requests, transaction amounts, due dates, tax information, and complete audit trails can all exist within the same blockchain-based system.

Why Businesses Are Building on Request

Request has become something of an unsung hero in the Web3 infrastructure world. Many blockchain organizations (from DeFi protocols to gaming studios) have adopted it because it addresses challenges that traditional payment systems simply weren't designed to handle.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Reliable audit trails. Every single request is timestamped, immutable, and independently verifiable, an accountant's dream, really.
• Built-in compliance capabilities. Request's architecture naturally supports detailed tax reporting and regulatory workflows, which matters considerably more than it sounds.
• Easy integration options. Businesses can connect Request to existing platforms like WooCommerce through tools such as WooReq, or leverage Request Finance for more sophisticated requirements.
• True scalability. The network handles recurring payments, batch transactions, and multi-chain activity across more than 25 different blockchains without breaking a sweat.

This combination of automation, transparency, and flexibility has made Request valuable for all sorts of teams, no matter the size.

Understanding the REQ Token

While Request Network focuses on simplifying payment infrastructure, the REQ token functions as the operational backbone that keeps everything running smoothly. Rather than serving as the primary transaction currency (i.e., using it to buy a delicious cup of coffee) it works behind the scenes to power the network's various operations.

Every time someone creates or processes a payment request, associated network fees are paid in REQ. These fees are then automatically converted into whichever blockchain currency is needed at that moment (such as ETH for Ethereum network gas fees), allowing Request to operate seamlessly across multiple blockchain ecosystems. Importantly, a portion of the REQ used in these transactions gets burned (or in layman terms, permanently removed from circulation) which creates a natural deflationary pressure over time.

REQ also plays a meaningful role in network governance. Token holders can participate in decisions about protocol upgrades and development priorities. This ensures the network grows through community consensus rather than through centralized decision-making. Moreover, small REQ-based micro-fees help prevent spam and malicious activity by making excessive request creation economically impractical for bad actors.

The token's economic design emphasizes long-term sustainability. With a total supply capped at 1 billion tokens and a relatively decentralized distribution model, the ecosystem sidesteps many of the concentration risks that plague other projects. This structure reduces the likelihood of sudden large-scale token dumps and supports a more stable, resilient market over time.

Why Request Matters in the Crypto Ecosystem

As blockchain technology and the crypto industry as a whole continue to mature, infrastructure projects like Request are becoming increasingly critical to the ecosystem's practical utility. They're not trying to reinvent money itself; they're focused on making financial processes demonstrably smarter.

Who Benefits From Request?

• Major DeFi organizations including Aave, Fantom, and Maker use Request to manage complex multi-token accounting across their operations.
• Traditional enterprises have adopted Request for streamlined tax reporting and regulatory compliance, particularly those operating across multiple jurisdictions.
• Developers rely on Request's API to automate everything from routine payroll processing to recurring subscription billing, eliminating manual intervention.
• Web3 projects leverage Request Finance to manage payments in dozens of different digital assets simultaneously, avoiding the headache of manual conversion and tracking.

The network has also collaborated with Aleo for confidential payroll solutions that maintain compliance while protecting employee financial privacy.

Moreover, Request gained significant mainstream attention in 2021 when The Sandbox (one of the largest NFT gaming platforms) picked Request for its payment infrastructure. This partnership not only drove increased token activity but, more importantly, validated Request as a tool with genuine utility.

Bottom Line

Request shows us what financial infrastructure could be in the Web3 era. It’s transparent, automated, and built for a fast, digital economy. It bridges blockchain's reliability with real-world needs, proving that decentralization is as relevant as it has ever been.

Where to Get REQ

Are you excited about what Request brings to the table? You can get the REQ token directly on the Tap app and start exploring the future of digital payments and invoicing today.

‍

Numeraire est un projet crypto novateur derrière le tout premier hedge fund piloté par l’IA et alimenté par la collaboration de data scientists à l’échelle mondiale. Fondé en octobre 2015 par le technologue sud-africain Richard Craib, Numerai représente une nouvelle approche des marchés financiers, où des milliers de spécialistes en data science s’affrontent pour concevoir les meilleurs modèles de prédiction boursière.

Il s’agirait du premier token crypto émis par un hedge fund, ce qui en fait un acteur à part entière, à la croisée de la finance traditionnelle et de l’innovation blockchain. La plateforme a rapidement attiré l’attention grâce à sa capacité à combiner intelligence artificielle, technologie blockchain et intelligence collective au service de la construction de stratégies d’investissement.

TL;DR

• Hedge fund piloté par l’IA : Numeraire (NMR) est un token sur Ethereum qui alimente Numerai, un hedge fund basé à San Francisco, utilisant l’intelligence artificielle pour prendre des décisions sans intervention humaine.
• Tournoi de data science : Numerai organise l’un des concours de science des données les plus exigeants au monde, récompensant les meilleurs modèles prédictifs avec des tokens NMR (plus de 200 000 $ versés chaque mois).
• Prédictions participatives : Les participants soumettent leurs modèles prédictifs à partir de données chiffrées, les plus performants étant récompensés.
• Système de staking : Les utilisateurs doivent posséder des NMR pour accéder aux fonctionnalités, participer au staking, et interagir avec l’écosystème.

Numeraire, c’est quoi ?

Numeraire est une plateforme unique où science des données et finance se rencontrent grâce à la blockchain. Plutôt que de s’appuyer sur des analystes financiers classiques, Numerai organise des compétitions en continu, où des data scientists du monde entier conçoivent des modèles de prédiction.

Le principe : Numerai fournit des données financières chiffrées et anonymisées. Les participants utilisent l’intelligence artificielle pour créer des modèles capables de prédire le comportement du marché boursier. Les modèles les plus performants sont intégrés dans les décisions de trading réelles du hedge fund, et leurs créateurs sont récompensés en tokens NMR.

Cette approche combine l’intelligence collective à l’échelle mondiale avec la transparence et les incitations propres à la blockchain. Résultat : une plateforme potentiellement plus résiliente et moins sujette aux biais émotionnels que les fonds gérés de manière traditionnelle.

Numerai attire certains des meilleurs profils du secteur de la data science, motivés à la fois par les récompenses et par le défi intellectuel que représente la construction de modèles capables de surpasser les marchés.

Qui a créé Numeraire ?

Numeraire a été fondé par Richard Craib, technologue sud-africain, en octobre 2015. Il a étudié les mathématiques et l’économie à l’Université du Cap, avant d’intégrer UC Berkeley en échange universitaire.

Avant Numerai, il a travaillé dans les marchés actions mondiaux, notamment chez Prudential (M&G), ce qui lui a donné une double expertise en finance et en modélisation mathématique. Cette vision croisée lui a permis d’imaginer un hedge fund collaboratif, piloté par la data et structuré autour de la blockchain.

Basé à San Francisco, Craib décrit Numerai comme “un nouveau type de hedge fund construit par un réseau de data scientists”.

Comment fonctionne Numeraire ?

Le tournoi

Le cœur du projet, c’est le tournoi hebdomadaire de science des données. Chaque semaine, Numerai publie de nouvelles données financières cryptées. Celles-ci couvrent des milliers d’actifs, mais sans jamais révéler les entreprises concernées — un choix volontaire pour éviter les conflits d’intérêt et garantir l’anonymat.

Les participants téléchargent les données, entraînent leurs modèles d’IA, puis soumettent leurs prédictions. Ces dernières sont ensuite évaluées par Numerai, en fonction des résultats réels du marché.

Staking et récompenses

Pour participer activement, les data scientists doivent miser des tokens NMR sur leurs propres prédictions. Si les modèles sont performants, ils reçoivent des récompenses en NMR. En revanche, un mauvais résultat peut entraîner une perte partielle des tokens misés.

Ce mécanisme permet d’aligner les incitations et d’éviter les prédictions aléatoires. Plus un modèle est performant, plus son créateur gagne en influence dans l’écosystème.

Agrégation des modèles

Numerai ne mise pas tout sur un seul gagnant. Les modèles les plus efficaces sont agrégés pour créer un “meta-modèle” global, utilisé par le hedge fund dans ses décisions de trading. Cette approche par ensemble renforce la robustesse globale des prévisions.

Le rôle du token NMR

NMR est le token central de l’écosystème Numerai. Il sert à :

• Participer aux tournois : les data scientists doivent miser des NMR pour soumettre leurs prédictions.
• Aligner les incitations : les modèles performants sont récompensés, ceux qui échouent perdent leur mise.
• Participer à la gouvernance : les détenteurs de NMR peuvent voter sur les évolutions du protocole.
• Accéder aux fonctions de la plateforme : paiements internes, staking, intégration aux modèles.
• Distribuer les récompenses : plus de 200 000 $ sont distribués chaque mois via ce système.

NMR fonctionne sur Ethereum sous forme de token ERC-20, ce qui le rend compatible avec la plupart des portefeuilles et protocoles DeFi.

Où acheter et gérer des NMR ?

Les tokens NMR peuvent être achetés et stockés facilement via l’app Tap, qui offre une interface simple pour gérer vos actifs crypto, y compris NMR.

Livepeer est un réseau de streaming vidéo décentralisé conçu pour rendre la diffusion de contenu vidéo plus accessible, plus flexible et moins coûteuse. Lancé en 2017, il s’agit du premier protocole entièrement décentralisé de streaming vidéo en direct, offrant une alternative aux services centralisés traditionnels comme YouTube ou Twitch.

La plateforme met en relation les créateurs de contenu vidéo avec des opérateurs de calcul qui fournissent la puissance de traitement nécessaire. Ce système en pair-à-pair permettrait de réduire les coûts de diffusion jusqu’à 50 à 90 % par rapport aux fournisseurs cloud traditionnels, tout en garantissant une qualité et une fiabilité élevées.

TL;DR

• Infrastructure vidéo décentralisée : Livepeer propose un réseau distribué pour le traitement de vidéos en direct, compatible avec les applications d’IA et les tâches de transcodage.
• Streaming économique : Le protocole sert de place de marché décentralisée pour les développeurs d'applications vidéo, permettant un traitement plus efficace des contenus.
• Technologie Ethereum : Construit sur Ethereum, Livepeer offre une alternative blockchain aux services de streaming centralisés, favorisant l’innovation ouverte.
• Token natif (LPT) : Le token Livepeer (LPT) sert à la gouvernance et au staking au sein du réseau, mais n’est pas utilisé pour les paiements directs.

C’est quoi Livepeer (LPT) ?

Livepeer est un réseau mondial où chacun peut contribuer à la diffusion de vidéos en mettant à disposition sa puissance de calcul. Lorsqu’un utilisateur souhaite diffuser une vidéo, le système répartit le traitement sur un réseau d’ordinateurs indépendants plutôt que sur des serveurs centralisés coûteux.

Le cœur du protocole repose sur le transcodage vidéo : c’est le processus qui permet de convertir une vidéo dans plusieurs formats et résolutions (1080p, 720p, etc.), pour s’adapter à différents appareils et vitesses de connexion.

Traditionnellement, cette opération nécessite des centres de données massifs. Livepeer, en revanche, répartit la charge entre des milliers d’ordinateurs appelés “orchestrateurs”.

Ce modèle profite à toutes les parties :

• Les créateurs de contenu bénéficient d’un traitement vidéo plus économique,
• Les opérateurs de calcul sont rémunérés pour l’utilisation de leurs ressources,
• Les spectateurs conservent une qualité de visionnage optimale.

Livepeer s’avère particulièrement utile pour les développeurs d’applications vidéo, qui peuvent utiliser l’infrastructure sans avoir à construire leur propre système de traitement.

Qui a créé Livepeer ?

Livepeer a été fondé en 2017 par Doug Petkanics et Eric Tang, deux ingénieurs logiciels et entrepreneurs de longue date.

Doug Petkanics, CEO de Livepeer, possède plus de 10 ans d’expérience dans la tech. Avant ce projet, il a cofondé Wildcard, où il occupait le poste de VP Engineering. Il est diplômé de l’Université de Pennsylvanie.

Eric Tang, CTO de Livepeer, s’est spécialisé dans l’application de la blockchain pour optimiser les coûts et la performance du streaming vidéo. Ensemble, ils ont développé une infrastructure comptant aujourd’hui plus de 70 000 GPU actifs pour encoder des vidéos à l’échelle.

Leur constat initial : le streaming vidéo devenait trop centralisé et trop coûteux, dominé par quelques géants technologiques. Leur solution : un réseau ouvert, décentralisé et compétitif.

Comment fonctionne Livepeer ?

Réseau de transcodage vidéo

Lorsque vous diffusez une vidéo, celle-ci doit être convertie en plusieurs formats pour pouvoir être lue sur différents types d’appareils et connexions.
Avec Livepeer, ce travail est distribué entre de nombreux orchestrateurs indépendants, qui sont en concurrence pour proposer le meilleur service au coût le plus bas.

Staking et sécurité du réseau

Les opérateurs souhaitant rejoindre le réseau doivent staker des tokens LPT comme garantie. Cela encourage un comportement responsable : un service de mauvaise qualité ou frauduleux peut entraîner la perte des tokens stakés.

Les utilisateurs peuvent aussi déléguer leurs LPT à des orchestrateurs de confiance, recevant ainsi une part des récompenses générées, tout en contribuant à la sécurité du réseau sans devoir gérer de matériel.

Place de marché décentralisée

Livepeer fonctionne comme une place de marché, où les demandes de traitement vidéo sont automatiquement attribuées aux orchestrateurs proposant les meilleures conditions (prix, qualité, disponibilité).

Les paiements pour le traitement vidéo sont généralement effectués en ETH ou autres cryptomonnaies. Le token LPT, lui, est utilisé pour le staking et la gouvernance, mais pas pour les transactions directes.

Qu’est-ce que le LPT ?

Le token LPT (Livepeer Token) joue un rôle central dans le fonctionnement du réseau. Il est utilisé pour :

• Sécuriser le réseau : les orchestrateurs doivent staker des LPT pour participer.
• Gouvernance : les détenteurs de LPT peuvent voter sur les décisions du protocole.
• Délégation : les tokens peuvent être délégués à des orchestrateurs, qui partagent ensuite les frais générés.
• Preuve de travail : le LPT donne le droit de fournir du service sur le réseau et de recevoir des frais en retour.

Le modèle du token est inflationniste, de nouveaux LPT étant créés pour récompenser les participants. Cette émission est ajustée en fonction de l’usage réel du réseau.

Comment acheter et gérer des LPT ?

Les tokens LPT peuvent être achetés, vendus et stockés via l’app Tap. L’application permet aux utilisateurs vérifiés de gérer leurs LPT avec d’autres actifs numériques, facilement et en toute sécurité.

‍

Harvest Finance is a decentralised yield farming protocol that automates the process of earning maximum returns on crypto investments. Launched in 2020 on the Ethereum blockchain, it functions as a yield aggregator that automatically moves users' funds between different DeFi protocols to capture the highest available yields. It now operates on additional blockchains such as Binance Smart Chain and Polygon.

The platform was designed to solve one of the biggest challenges in DeFi yield farming: the time and expertise needed to constantly monitor and switch between different protocols to maximise returns. Instead of users having to do this manually, Harvest Finance does it automatically, making yield farming accessible to everyone.

TLDR

Automated yield farming: Harvest Finance is a DeFi protocol that automatically farms the highest yields available from various DeFi protocols and pools, optimising returns using advanced farming techniques.

Yield aggregator: Harvest Finance serves as a yield aggregator where assets are deposited into strategic vaults to maximise their yield.

Vault system: Users deposit their crypto assets into specialised vaults, receiving fTokens in return that represent their share of the vault and accumulated rewards.

Native token (FARM): FARM is the governance token that allows holders to vote on protocol parameters and share in farming revenue. FARM token holders can vote on proposals for the operational treasury and may receive a fee from Harvest operations

What is Harvest Finance (FARM)?

Harvest Finance simplifies the complex world of yield farming by creating an automated system that does the hard work for users. When you deposit your crypto into a Harvest vault, the protocol automatically deploys your funds to various DeFi platforms that offer the best returns at any given time.

Think of it like having a professional fund manager for your crypto, but instead of a human making decisions, smart contracts automatically move your money to wherever it can earn the most. The protocol automatically farms the highest yield by moving funds between farming pools on your behalf, eliminating the need for users to constantly research and switch between different platforms.

The platform supports various types of assets including stablecoins, popular cryptocurrencies, and liquidity pool tokens. When you deposit assets, you receive fTokens (like fUSDC for USDC deposits) that represent your share of the vault and track your earnings over time.

Harvest Finance's goal is to make yield farming more accessible by automating the process and optimising the potential returns using the latest farming techniques, bringing sophisticated DeFi strategies to everyday users.

Who created Harvest Finance?

The founders of Harvest Finance remain anonymous, which was common for many DeFi projects launched in 2020. The team is completely anonymous, though the project succeeded in attracting a relatively sizable community and has been involved in the community by doling out grants.

Despite the anonymous nature of the founding team, Harvest Finance has built a strong reputation in the DeFi community through its transparent operations and community involvement. The token was distributed via fair launch with no token sales to investors, demonstrating the team's commitment to decentralised principles.

The project launched during the height of the 2020 DeFi summer when yield farming became extremely popular, and the anonymous team capitalised on the growing demand for automated yield optimisation tools.

How does Harvest Finance work?

Vault Strategy System

The platform operates through a system of specialised vaults, each designed for different types of assets and risk profiles. When you deposit crypto into a vault, you receive fTokens that represent your share of that vault's total holdings.

The magic happens behind the scenes, where the protocol's strategies automatically deploy your funds to various DeFi protocols like Compound, Curve, Uniswap, and others based on where they can earn the highest yields. The system constantly monitors yield opportunities and automatically rebalances to maximise returns.

Automated Yield Optimisation

Harvest Finance's protocol design automatically farms the highest available yields and distributes the profits to users in the pool. This means users don't need to understand the complexities of different DeFi protocols or spend time managing their positions.

The protocol uses sophisticated algorithms to determine the best allocation of funds across different yield farming opportunities, taking into account factors like APY rates, smart contract risks, and gas costs for rebalancing.

Profit Sharing Model

When the automated strategies generate profits, these are shared among all users in the vault proportional to their deposits. A portion of the profits is also distributed to FARM token holders who stake their tokens in profit-sharing pools, creating an additional incentive layer for the community.

What is FARM?

FARM serves as the governance and profit-sharing token of the Harvest Finance ecosystem:

• Governance Rights: Holders can vote on protocol parameters and propose or veto the introduction of new Vaults, giving the community control over the platform's direction.
• Profit Sharing: FARM, when deposited in Profit Sharing pools, becomes a means of participating in farming revenue, allowing token holders to earn a share of the protocol's success.
• Protocol Incentives: Harvest at launch required a native crypto so as to be able to incentivise yield farmers, and allow Harvest to stake other platforms and collect rewards in return.
• Community Participation: The token creates alignment between users and the protocol's long-term success, as both benefit from higher yields and more efficient farming strategies.

FARM operates as an ERC-20 token on Ethereum, making it compatible with the broader DeFi ecosystem and easily tradeable on decentralised exchanges. While FARM is originally an ERC-20 token, it also exists on other blockchain platforms such as Polygon and Binance Smart Chain, expanding to multiple blockchains to offer yield farming opportunities across different ecosystems

How can I buy and sell FARM?

For those looking to participate in automated yield farming, FARM tokens are readily available through the Tap app. You can purchase, sell, and store FARM tokens securely while managing them alongside your broader crypto portfolio.

‍

Wanting to stake ETH but don't have the full 32 ETH required? Enter Rocket Pool – the game-changing protocol that's making Ethereum staking accessible to everyone.

Founded in 2016 and launched on mainnet in October 2021, Rocket Pool breaks down the barriers to Ethereum staking by allowing anyone to participate with as little as 0.01 ETH. Or, if you want to run a node, you'll need 8 ETH (plus some RPL as collateral) instead of the standard 32 ETH.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the protocol, including its two key tokens:

• RPL: The governance token that also serves as insurance for the protocol
• rETH: A liquid token that represents your staked ETH and automatically grows in value as rewards accumulate

By democratising access to staking, Rocket Pool stays true to Ethereum's vision of decentralisation while making it possible for anyone to earn rewards from securing the network, with no massive ETH holdings required!

How Rocket Pool works

Rocket Pool's design has three main components that work together to facilitate decentralised ETH staking: smart contracts, smart node network and minipools. 

The Smart Contracts Backbone

At the foundation of Rocket Pool lies a sophisticated set of smart contracts that govern all protocol operations. These contracts manage:

• Deposit pools where regular users stake their ETH
• The creation and management of minipools (validator nodes)
• The minting and burning of rETH tokens
• The staking and distribution of RPL rewards
• Protocol governance mechanisms

The smart contracts ensure that all operations happen in a trustless manner, removing the need for intermediaries and preserving the decentralised ethos of Ethereum. They incorporate various security measures, including extensive testing and multiple independent audits to safeguard user funds.

Key smart contracts include the Deposit Pool, Minipool Factory, and Token contracts. When users deposit ETH, the smart contracts either match them with node operators to create validators or mint rETH representing their stake and accumulated rewards.

Smart Node Network and Minipools explained

Rocket Pool's network consists of independent node operators running the Rocket Pool Smart Node software. This software interacts with the protocol's smart contracts and manages validator duties on the Ethereum network.

Node operators in Rocket Pool contribute 8 ETH (rather than the full 32 ETH required for solo staking), which is matched with 24 ETH from the protocol's deposit pool to form a standard 32 ETH validator. This validator unit is called a "minipool."

The process works as follows:

1. A node operator installs and configures the Smart Node software
2. They deposit 8 ETH and a minimum of 10% worth of ETH in RPL tokens as collateral
3. The protocol matches this with 24 ETH from regular stakers
4. A minipool (validator) is created and begins participating in Ethereum consensus
5. When the validator earns rewards, they are split proportionally between the node operator and the deposit pool

This system creates a symbiotic relationship between those who want to stake without running infrastructure (regular stakers) and those willing to operate nodes but don't have the full 32 ETH requirement (node operators).

The minipool design is particularly innovative because it allows for fractional validator ownership while maintaining security through RPL collateral requirements. If a node operator behaves maliciously or negligently, their RPL collateral can be slashed, protecting regular stakers from potential losses.

Understanding RPL and rETH

As mentioned earlier, Rocket Pool's ecosystem revolves around two main tokens, each serving specific functions within the protocol. 

What is RPL used for?

RPL (Rocket Pool Protocol Token) is the native utility and governance token of the Rocket Pool protocol, designed to align the interests of node operators with the long-term success of the protocol. Unlike rETH, which represents staked ETH, this ERC-20 token serves several specific functions:

1. Node operator collateral: Node operators must stake a minimum of 10% of their ETH value in RPL tokens as security against wrongdoing. This collateral can be slashed if the node operator behaves maliciously, protecting the protocol and its users.
2. Insurance mechanism: The RPL staked by node operators creates a protocol-wide insurance fund that helps secure user deposits and maintain trust in the system.
3. Additional rewards: Node operators can stake up to 150% of their ETH value in RPL to receive proportional RPL rewards, incentivising greater security deposits and alignment with protocol success.
4. Governance: RPL token holders have voting rights on protocol upgrades, parameter changes, and other governance decisions through the Rocket Pool DAO.

What is rETH and how does it work?

rETH is Rocket Pool's liquid staking token that represents staked ETH plus accumulated rewards. These automatically increase in value relative to ETH through a changing exchange rate rather than requiring separate reward claims.

How to stake ETH with Rocket Pool (step-by-step)

Staking ETH with Rocket Pool as a regular user (not a node operator) is straightforward and accessible to anyone with an Ethereum wallet. Here's a guide to getting started:

Option 1: Using the Rocket Pool dApp

1. Connect your wallet: Visit the Rocket Pool website and navigate to the staking interface. Connect your Ethereum wallet (MetaMask, WalletConnect, etc.).
2. Determine your stake amount: Decide how much ETH you want to stake (minimum 0.01 ETH).
3. Approve the transaction: After reviewing the details, confirm the transaction in your wallet. This will swap your ETH for rETH at the current exchange rate.
4. Receive rETH: Once the transaction is confirmed, you'll receive rETH in your wallet, representing your staked ETH plus future rewards.

Option 2: Using decentralised exchanges

1. Access a DEX: Open a decentralised exchange that supports rETH/ETH pairs (Uniswap, SushiSwap, Balancer, etc.).
2. Execute the swap: Trade your ETH for rETH through the exchange interface.
3. Store your rETH: Keep your rETH in your wallet or utilise it in compatible DeFi protocols.

Monitoring your stake

Once you hold rETH, your rewards accumulate automatically through the increasing exchange rate between rETH and ETH. To monitor your rewards:

1. Check the current rETH/ETH exchange rate on the Rocket Pool website or through blockchain explorers.
2. Calculate the difference between the current value of your rETH holdings and your initial investment.

Remember that you don't need to claim rewards separately - they're built into the increasing value of your rETH tokens. When you eventually want to unstake, you can simply swap your rETH back to ETH through the Rocket Pool interface or a decentralised exchange.

How to become a Rocket Pool node operator

For those with technical expertise and a desire to become more actively involved in Ethereum's consensus mechanism, becoming a Rocket Pool node operator offers an opportunity to run validators with reduced capital requirements while earning additional rewards.

Prerequisites:

• 8 ETH for each minipool (validator) you wish to create
• At least 10% of your ETH value in RPL tokens as collateral (for maximum rewards, up to 150%)
• A computer or server that meets the minimum requirements:
  
  • 4+ CPU cores
  • 8+ GB RAM
  • 100+ GB SSD storage
  • Stable internet connection
• Basic command line knowledge
• Understanding of Ethereum staking principles

Step-by-step process:

1. Set up your hardware and operating system: Either use a dedicated machine or a cloud service provider. Most node operators use Linux-based systems.
2. Install Ethereum clients: Set up an execution client (Geth, Nethermind, etc.) and a consensus client (Prysm, Lighthouse, etc.).
3. Install Rocket Pool Smart Node software: Follow the detailed instructions on the Rocket Pool documentation site to install the node software.
4. Configure your node: Set up network settings, client preferences, and MEV-boost options if desired.
5. Deposit ETH and RPL: Use the node software to deposit your 8 ETH and the required RPL collateral.
6. Create your minipool: Once your deposits are confirmed, create a minipool which will be matched with 24 ETH from the deposit pool.
7. Monitor and maintain your node: Keep your system updated, monitor performance, and participate in protocol governance if desired.

The future of Rocket Pool

As Ethereum continues to evolve, Rocket Pool is positioning itself for sustained growth and adaptation. In coming years, several key developments and trends will likely shape its trajectory.

Protocol upgrades:

The Rocket Pool development team has outlined an ambitious roadmap with several major upgrades:

• Saturn upgrade series: A comprehensive set of improvements focusing on scalability, capital efficiency, and user experience. The Saturn upgrade is a multi-phase initiative, with Saturn 0 completed and further phases underway.
• Distributed Validator Technology (DVT): Implementation of validator key distribution across multiple operators, enhancing security and reducing single points of failure.
• Greater MEV optimisation: Advanced strategies for maximising Maximal Extractable Value for stakers while maintaining ethical standards.
• Cross-chain expansion: Potential expansion to other proof-of-stake networks or layer-2 solutions that require validation services.

Scaling with Ethereum:

As Ethereum implements its scaling roadmap, Rocket Pool will adapt to support:

• Danksharding and proto-danksharding implementations
• Increasing validator requirements as Ethereum grows
• Adjustments to staking economics as Ethereum's monetary policy evolves
• Supporting specialised validation roles that might emerge in Ethereum's future

Market position and growth:

While Rocket Pool currently holds a smaller market share than some competitors, its emphasis on decentralisation potentially positions it well for sustainable growth. Here are key aspects worth keeping an eye on:

• Increasing regulatory scrutiny may favour more decentralised staking solutions
• Growing community awareness of centralisation risks could drive users toward Rocket Pool
• The protocol's conservative approach to security and upgrades builds long-term trust

How to buy Rocket Pool (RPL)

If you’re looking to accumulate RPL, you can do so securely and easily through the Tap app. Simply download the app, create an account and complete the identity verification process. Once verified, you can buy RPL with a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies or fiat currencies (through debit card or bank transfer). Ready to dive into the world of staking, or just go along for the ride? Tap’s ready for you. 

‍

Building wealth doesn’t require a finance degree, a huge bank account, or advanced knowledge of the stock market. What you need most is clarity. Understanding the basics of investment can help you reach major goals like buying property, funding your education, or planning for retirement. When you learn how to put your money to work, you create opportunities for long-term growth, greater financial security, and even future revenue streams.

This guide breaks down what an investment is, how it works, the different types available, and how you can start today.

What Is an Investment?

An investment is something you purchase with the expectation that it will increase in value or generate income over time. You trade resources (usually money, but sometimes time or effort) for a future benefit. In simple terms, investing is like planting a seed today that grows into a tree tomorrow.

In finance, investments can include assets such as stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mutual funds, and other financial instruments. These assets may generate profit through interest payments, dividends, rent, or increases in market value.

Outside of money, people also “invest” in education, skills, or personal development. The idea remains the same: you commit resources now for long-term reward. Whether you’re an individual saving for the future or a corporation expanding operations, investment is a powerful tool for building wealth and increasing economic value.

How Do Investments Work?

Investments typically generate returns in two main ways: income and appreciation.

1. Income

Some investments pay you regularly even if you never sell them. Examples include:

• Dividends from stocks, which come from a company’s profits
• Interest from bonds, which compensates you for lending money
• Rent from real estate properties
• Coupon payments from fixed-income securities

Income-focused assets can help you create predictable cash flow, support long-term goals, and diversify your portfolio.

2. Capital Appreciation

Appreciation occurs when an asset increases in market value.
Example:
You buy a share for $100, and later the share price rises to $150. If you sell it, your profit is the $50 gain minus any cost or tax.

Most investors rely on a mix of income and appreciation depending on their financial strategy.

Risk and Return

All investments involve risk, such as:

• Market volatility
• Credit risk (for bondholders)
• Depreciation of property or goods
• Currency fluctuations
• Liquidity constraints

In general, higher potential return usually comes with higher risk. Understanding your risk tolerance is essential for proper portfolio planning and long-term success.

Compounding

Compounding occurs when your earnings begin to generate additional earnings. For example, interest added to a bank account earns more interest later. Compounding accelerates wealth-building and is one reason long-term investing is effective.

Types of Investments

There are many investment vehicles available in the marketplace, each with distinct features, costs, and risk levels.

A. Stocks (Equities)

Stocks represent ownership in a company. When you buy a stock on an exchange, you become a shareholder. Your potential returns come from:

• Share price growth
• Dividend payments

Stocks are often more volatile but historically deliver higher long-term returns. They’re typically best for investors seeking growth and willing to handle market fluctuations.

B. Bonds (Fixed-Income Securities)

Bonds are loans you provide to a corporation or government. In exchange, you receive:

• Regular interest payments
• Return of your principal at maturity

Government bonds, corporate bonds, and foreign bonds vary in credit risk and coupon rates. Bonds help balance a portfolio and provide steady income.

C. Mutual Funds

Mutual funds pool money from multiple investors and invest in professionally managed portfolios of:

• Stocks
• Bonds
• Commodities
• Other securities

They offer diversification and professional management but may include management fees. Investors purchase shares of the fund at the end-of-day price.

D. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

ETFs are similar to mutual funds but trade on stock exchanges like individual shares. They often track stock market indexes, commodity markets, or sectors. ETFs typically have lower fees and offer flexibility, diversification, and transparency.

E. Real Estate

Real estate investments include:

• Rental properties
• Residential or commercial buildings
• Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
  
  

Real estate offers potential income through rent, capital appreciation, and tax benefits. It also serves as a physical asset with market value tied to local economies.

F. Alternative Investments

These include:

• Commodities (gold, silver, oil, agriculture)
• Cryptocurrencies
• Private equity
• Venture capital
• Collectibles (art, coins, metals)

Alternative products often have higher volatility or lower liquidity but can strengthen diversification strategies.

How Much Money Do You Need to Start Investing?

Today, you can begin investing with $1 to $100 thanks to:

• Fractional share purchasing
• Micro-investment apps
• Zero-minimum brokerage accounts

The amount matters less than consistency. For example, investing $100 every month over 10 years can yield more than investing $1,000 just once, because compounding rewards regular contributions.

Before you begin, ensure you:

• Have a bank account in good standing
• Maintain an emergency fund
• Understand basic investment terms
• Are aware of costs, fees, and taxes

The barrier to entry is lower than ever, making investing accessible for almost anyone.

Advantages of Investing

1. Wealth Growth Through Compounding

Your money earns returns, and those returns earn more over time. Compounding is one of the most powerful financial tools available.

2. Passive Income Potential

Dividends, interest payments, rental income, and other streams can supplement your salary and eventually support financial independence.

3. Protection Against Inflation

Cash loses purchasing power over time. Investments in assets like equities, commodities, or real estate historically outpace inflation rates and help preserve long-term value.

4. Tax Benefits

Many investment accounts offer tax incentives:

• 401(k) and IRA contributions may reduce taxable income
• Roth accounts allow tax-free withdrawals
• Long-term capital gains are often taxed at lower rates

Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

Risks and Considerations

1. Risk of Loss

All investments carry the possibility of losing principal. No product offers guaranteed returns.

2. Market Volatility

Prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, economic policy, regulation, behavioral economics, and global events.

3. Liquidity Challenges

Some assets (like real estate, certificates of deposit, or certain bonds) are not easily converted to cash.

4. Knowledge Requirements

Successful investing requires ongoing learning, research, and understanding of financial statements, corporate law considerations, and market dynamics. Professional advice can be useful in complex situations.

How to Start Investing

1. Set Your Financial Goals

Define your purpose: retirement, education, purchasing property, or building long-term wealth. Timeline matters because it influences your strategy.

2. Check Your Financial Foundation

Ensure:

• A stable monthly budget
• An emergency fund
• High-interest debt under control
  
  

3. Understand Your Risk Tolerance

Consider your age, life stage, income stability, and comfort with market swings.

4. Choose Your Investment Account

Options include:

• Employer 401(k) plans
• IRAs (Traditional or Roth)
• Taxable brokerage accounts
  
  

5. Select a Brokerage or Platform

Look for:

• Low fees
• Educational tools
• Customer support
• Privacy and security features
  
  

Robo-advisors can offer automated, passive management based on your profile.

6. Start Small and Stay Consistent

Use strategies such as dollar-cost averaging, automatic transfers, and regular rebalancing.

7. Seek Guidance When Needed

Financial advisors, online courses, and platform research tools can help you navigate complex decisions.

Calculating Return on Investment (ROI)

Use this simple formula:

ROI = (Current Value – Original Cost) ÷ Original Cost × 100

For example:
You invest $1,000. It grows to $1,250.
ROI = (1250 – 1000) ÷ 1000 × 100 = 25%

ROI helps you compare different investments, though it does not account for time, risk, or market conditions. If you wish to learn more, you can check out our blog article on ROI.

Conclusion

Investing is the practice of putting your money to work so it can grow over time. You don’t need a large starting amount, just a plan, patience, and consistency. By understanding how investments function and choosing the right strategy for your needs, you can build wealth, protect your purchasing power, and work toward long-term financial goals. With knowledge, discipline, and the right tools, you can confidently take your first step into the world of investing.

‍