Tezos is a self-amending blockchain that emphasizes on-chain governance and formal verification for smart contracts. Unlike many networks that require hard forks to implement changes, Tezos allows stakeholders to participate in on-chain governance, proposing and voting on protocol upgrades. The native token, XTZ, is used for paying transaction fees, participating in consensus (baking), and governance. Tezos aims to provide a secure, upgradable platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications with a focus on long-term sustainability and reducing the risk of contentious forks.

How does Tezos consensus work and what is baking?

Tezos uses a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. Holders stake their XTZ to become bakers (validators) or to delegate to a baker. Bakers validate and bake new blocks and update the chain, earning rewards in XTZ. Delegators contribute their stake without running a node themselves, earning a share of rewards while maintaining control over their funds. The on-chain governance process allows bakers and delegators to vote on proposed protocol upgrades, enhancing security and adaptability over time.

What is the current price and supply situation for Tezos, and what do they imply for investors?

As of now, Tezos trades around $0.61 per XTZ with daily price movement showing a positive 5.88% change. The circulating supply is roughly 1.072 billion XTZ. A relatively large supply paired with ongoing staking activity means rewards can be earned by participating in baking or delegation. Investors should consider the health of the Tezos ecosystem, on-chain governance activity, development progress, and overall market conditions, in addition to price movements, when assessing potential risk and upside.

How can I stake Tezos, and what are the potential rewards and risks involved?

Staking Tezos involves either becoming a baker (running a validator node) or delegating your XTZ to an established baker. Bakers earn a share of block rewards, while delegators receive a portion of those rewards without operating a node. Rewards vary with network activity, the baker’s performance, and protocol rules. Risks include slashing events being possible in edge cases of misbehavior, validator downtime impacting rewards, and capital lock-up if you choose certain setups. Always research reputable bakers, understand the fee structure, and ensure you maintain control of your private keys.

What are the on-chain governance capabilities of Tezos and why do they matter for developers and users?

Tezos enables on-chain governance where stakeholders vote on proposed protocol amendments. This process reduces the likelihood of disruptive hard forks and allows the network to evolve gradually. For developers, this means continuous improvements, easier upgradability, and a more predictable roadmap. For users, it promises a stable, adaptable platform with ongoing improvements in security, scalability, and functionality for smart contracts and dApps. Participation is open to XTZ holders who delegate or bake, influencing future features and upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lending Tezos (XTZ) in the UK