Exploring Blast (BLAST): A Yield-Bearing Ethereum Layer 2 Solution
Darius Baruo Jun 27, 2024 12:21
Discover Blast (BLAST), an Ethereum Layer 2 protocol offering yield on ETH and stablecoins. Learn about its features, tokenomics, and how to buy BLAST.
Blast, an Ethereum Layer 2 solution, is making waves in the crypto community with its unique integration of native yield for ETH and stablecoins. According to blog.bitfinex.com, this protocol distributes yield from decentralized sources like ETH staking and on-chain T-Bill protocols directly to users, offering a 4% yield on ETH and a 5% yield on stablecoins.
Key Features of Blast
Blast operates as an EVM-compatible, optimistic rollup, making it easier for users and developers to benefit from higher baseline yields without altering the familiar Ethereum experience. A standout feature is its auto-rebasing mechanism, which adjusts balances in user accounts to reflect accrued yield. This mechanism is applied natively for Externally Owned Accounts (EOAs) and can be optionally enabled for smart contracts, allowing seamless integration with existing Decentralised Applications (DApps).
The yield generation is facilitated by Ethereum’s Layer 1 staking rewards, particularly through protocols like Lido, which automatically transfer yield to Blast users via the rebasing mechanism. Additionally, users who bridge stablecoins to Blast receive USDB, a stablecoin whose yield is derived from MakerDAO’s on-chain T-Bill protocol. This ensures users benefit continuously from competitive yield rates, whether they hold ETH or stablecoins.
Gas Revenue Sharing Model
Another notable feature of Blast is its unique gas revenue sharing model. Unlike other Layer 2 solutions that retain gas fee revenue, Blast redistributes this revenue back to DApps programmatically. This allows DApp developers to either keep the revenue or use it to subsidize gas fees for their users, promoting a more cost-effective and attractive environment for DApp usage.
What is the BLAST Token?
The BLAST token serves multiple pivotal roles within the Blast ecosystem. It is essential for governance, allowing token holders to participate in decision-making processes regarding protocol upgrades and yield strategies. This decentralized governance model ensures the community has a significant say in shaping the platform’s future.
BLAST tokens are also crucial for staking within the ecosystem. Users can stake their tokens to secure the network and earn rewards in return. This staking mechanism incentivizes users to contribute to the network’s security and helps maintain the ecosystem's overall health and stability.
Additionally, BLAST tokens facilitate various transactional activities within the ecosystem, such as paying for transaction fees on the Blast Layer 2 network. This ensures operations are cost-effective and efficient, given the high gas fees often associated with transactions on the Ethereum mainnet. The transaction fees collected in BLAST tokens are redistributed within the ecosystem, supporting further development and incentivization.
BLAST Tokenomics
The Blast airdrop initiative rewards early adopters and participants within the ecosystem. Users can earn Blast Points and Blast Gold through activities like maintaining balances in ETH, WETH, and USDB, or participating in DApps on the platform. Points are distributed automatically based on the balance held in users’ wallets or smart contracts, and users can earn multipliers by engaging with highlighted DApps.
Despite the active engagement through the airdrop, detailed information about the tokenomics of BLAST is still pending. Users are encouraged to join the Blast community to stay informed about the latest developments, including updates on the airdrop and detailed tokenomics.
How to Buy BLAST
To buy BLAST with cryptocurrency, log in to your Bitfinex account, go to the Deposit page, choose the crypto you plan to buy BLAST with, generate a deposit address on the Exchange wallet, and send the crypto to the generated address. Once the funds arrive, you can trade them for BLAST.
To buy BLAST with fiat, log in to your Bitfinex account, get full verification, go to the Deposit page under the Bank Wire menu, choose the fiat currency for your deposit, check your email for wire details, send the funds, and once they arrive, you can use them to buy BLAST.
Blast also offers mobile options for on-the-go purchases.
BLAST Community Channels
For more information and updates, visit the Blast website, follow them on X (Twitter), or join their Discord community.
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