<p><strong>Babylon is a Bitcoin Staking Protocol that allows Bitcoin holders to stake their BTC, providing security for different PoS systems. </strong>As a result, BTC holders can gain rewards on their capital in the tokens of PoS systems they support. On the other hand, different blockchains or DA layers that decide to integrate with Babylon can use it to secure their networks with Bitcoin, the world’s most valuable crypto asset.<br><br>To understand it better, please read our previous article on BTC staking with Babylon:</p><figure class="kg-card kg-bookmark-card"><a class="kg-bookmark-container" href="https://p2p.org/economy/what-is-bitcoin-staking/"><div class="kg-bookmark-content"><div class="kg-bookmark-title">What is Bitcoin Staking?</div><div class="kg-bookmark-description">Introducing Babylon 1. The Problem Bitcoin is the most prominent and valuable cryptocurrency in the world. However, it lacks mechanisms for holders to earn passive income, similar to PoS networks such as Ethereum, leading to millions of idle Bitcoins. The evolving blockchain landscape, especially Proof-of-Stake chains, demands consistent security and</div><div class="kg-bookmark-metadata"><img class="kg-bookmark-icon" src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2020/09/favicon.ico" alt><span class="kg-bookmark-author">P2P.org Blog: Insights, Guides, and News</span><span class="kg-bookmark-publisher">Kamil Jakub Natil</span></div></div><div class="kg-bookmark-thumbnail"><img src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/05/BTC-20staking-202.jpg" alt></div></a></figure><p><br>In previous blog posts, we discussed Bitcoin Staking and how Babylon provides non-custodial staking of BTC:</p><figure class="kg-card kg-bookmark-card"><a class="kg-bookmark-container" href="https://p2p.org/economy/understanding-non-custodial-staking-on-the-babylon/"><div class="kg-bookmark-content"><div class="kg-bookmark-title">Understanding Non-Custodial Staking on the Babylon</div><div class="kg-bookmark-description">What is Babylon? Babylon is a revolutionary staking protocol that allows Bitcoin holders to provide their BTC assets to secure PoS systems and receive a yield on their assets. The idea of BTC staking is relatively new and needs further explanation. When discussing BTC staking, many people associate it with</div><div class="kg-bookmark-metadata"><img class="kg-bookmark-icon" src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2020/09/favicon.ico" alt><span class="kg-bookmark-author">P2P.org Blog: Insights, Guides, and News</span><span class="kg-bookmark-publisher">Kamil Jakub Natil</span></div></div><div class="kg-bookmark-thumbnail"><img src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/05/Babylon.jpg" alt></div></a></figure><p><br>Today, we will look at Babylon from another angle, show how Babylon is achieving universality on a scale, and show how significant Babylon's impact can become on the blockchain industry and different PoS systems because of its flexible architecture.</p><h3 id="babylons-key-components">Babylon's key components</h3><p>As we discussed, <strong>Babylon leverages BTC to provide shared security, making it a reliable source of security for various PoS systems</strong>. But how does it achieve this?</p><p>Babylon introduces the role of Finality Providers, who receive delegations of BTC from Bitcoin holders. Finality Providers are additional validators that can participate in the block validation process. The largest blockchain validators, including P2P.org, will be Finality Providers in Babylon.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/06/pos-1.jpg" class="kg-image" alt loading="lazy" width="2000" height="1159" srcset="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w600/2024/06/pos-1.jpg 600w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w1000/2024/06/pos-1.jpg 1000w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w1600/2024/06/pos-1.jpg 1600w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/06/pos-1.jpg 2000w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p></p><p>After receiving the BTC delegation, Finality Providers can participate in the block verification process. If they act maliciously, for example, by double signing, the portion of Bitcoins delegated by stakers can be slashed. Slashing can be technically achieved because of the EOTS signature that Finality Providers use to validate blocks. When Finality Providers double sign, their private key is leaked, which allows the broadcast of a pre-approved slashing transaction that was created when the user staked the tokens.<br></p><div class="kg-card kg-callout-card kg-callout-card-grey"><div class="kg-callout-text">Babylon’s design is elegant and flexible. It adds additional finality rounds to blockchains operated by Finality Providers. This means that PoS systems, which have their own consensus mechanisms and validators, can add an extra level of verification supported by a set of Finality Providers who provide BTC as a slashable asset.</div></div><p><br>This set of Finality Providers can improve security and make the blockchain more decentralized. Decentralization is crucial for any blockchain to be secure and sustainable, but not all blockchains boast about it. Additionally, finding and maintaining a stack of validators is a resource-intensive process.</p><p><strong>Babylon acts as a shared security marketplace that brings together Finality Providers, who offer shared security, and PoS systems, which receive it in exchange for rewards.</strong></p><h3 id="cosmos-as-a-first-stop">Cosmos as a First Stop</h3><p>Babylon plans to focus on the Cosmos SDK blockchains and the Babylon PoS chain itself as the first PoS systems. Like other chains built on CometBFT, the Babylon PoS chain will have a set of validators that validate blocks and broadcast them to other nodes. Validators in Cosmos use the native tokens of these chains as security collateral. If they act maliciously, the portion delegated tokens can be slashed.</p><p>However, when integrated with Babylon, Cosmos SDK chains add an additional finality round that provides extra security through Finality Providers. As shown in the diagram, these Finality Providers become an additional step in the block path, creating a more secure block verification process.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/06/a3.jpg" class="kg-image" alt loading="lazy" width="2000" height="1159" srcset="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w600/2024/06/a3.jpg 600w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w1000/2024/06/a3.jpg 1000w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w1600/2024/06/a3.jpg 1600w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/06/a3.jpg 2000w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p></p><p>If Cosmos SDK chains decide to work with Babylon and receive additional security, they must reward Finality Providers to attract them. This creates a marketplace where Finality Providers offer security, and blockchains reward them.<br></p><h3 id="other-ecosystems-are-welcomed">Other Ecosystems Are Welcomed</h3><p>One of the most exciting aspects of Babylon's plan is its focus on PoS systems outside of the Cosmos ecosystem. From Babylon's announcements, we know that Babylon plans to integrate its Bitcoin Staking Protocol to provide shared security to Bitcoin L2s, AltLayer rollups, standalone chains, and more.</p><p>The reality is that the additional round of finality after the protocol has finalized a block can be added to different consensus protocols, not just CometBFT. Babylon's general approach can open the doors to providing security for various blockchain ecosystems and allow Babylon to build a shared security marketplace, where PoS systems from different ecosystems can interact with finality providers and receive security from them.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/06/a2.jpg" class="kg-image" alt loading="lazy" width="2000" height="2000" srcset="https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w600/2024/06/a2.jpg 600w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w1000/2024/06/a2.jpg 1000w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/size/w1600/2024/06/a2.jpg 1600w, https://p2p.org/economy/content/images/2024/06/a2.jpg 2000w" sizes="(min-width: 720px) 720px"></figure><p>When speaking about Babylon, we should always keep in mind that Babylon's impact can be much more significant than we think right now. This is achieved through its architecture and the vast amount of BTC collateral that can be used. In the long run, this shared security model can lead to a more secure and resilient blockchain environment. As more PoS systems join the Babylon, the collective security and stability of the entire ecosystem improve. <br></p><h2 id="how-to-participate">How to Participate?</h2><p>If you're interested in participating in the launch of Babylon, we recommend two main directions for involvement:</p><ol><li><strong>Testnet Participation:</strong><br>Engage with the Babylon testnet by staking your SignetBTC directly on Babylon's <a href="https://btcstaking.testnet.babylonchain.io/?ref=p2p.org"><u>official website</u></a>. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the platform's features and functionalities without risking real assets.</li><li><strong>Support for Large Bitcoin Holders:</strong><br>If you hold significant Bitcoin, <strong>don't hesitate to contact our team</strong>. We can provide tailored validator solutions that will be optimal for you when the mainnet launches. (<a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noreferrer">Person of contact</a>)</li></ol><div class="kg-card kg-button-card kg-align-center"><a href="mailto:[email protected]" class="kg-btn kg-btn-accent">Email Us!</a></div><p><br><br>The Babylon Testnet-4 has already been launched, and the mainnet launch is anticipated by the end of the first half of the year. This new testnet focuses on the security of staked Bitcoins by testing user interactions with the BTC Signet test network. The Babylon team is actively monitoring updates and feedback from the community to ensure the network's </p><h1 id="about-p2p-validator"><strong>About P2P Validator</strong></h1><p><a href="https://p2p.org/?ref=p2p.org">P2P Validator</a> is a world-leading non-custodial staking provider, securing over $7 billion from over 10,000 delegators/nominators across 40+ high-class networks. We have actively participated in the Babylon Chain activities since the beginning.</p><hr><p>Do not hesitate to ask questions in our <a href="https://t.me/P2Pstaking?ref=p2p.org">Telegram</a> chat or contact Alik via <a href="mailto:[email protected]" rel="noreferrer">[email protected]</a>. We are always open to communication.</p><hr><p><strong>Web:</strong> <a href="https://p2p.org/?ref=p2p.org">https://p2p.org</a></p><p><strong>Twitter:</strong> <a href="https://twitter.com/p2pvalidator?ref=p2p.org">@p2pvalidator</a></p><p><strong>Telegram:</strong> <a href="https://t.me/P2Pstaking?ref=p2p.org">https://t.me/P2Pstaking</a></p>
from p2p validator
<h2 id="introducing-babylon">Introducing Babylon</h2><p></p><h3 id="1-the-problem">1. The Problem</h3><p>Bitcoin is the most prominent and valuable cryptocurrency in the world. However, it lacks mechanisms for holders to earn passive income, similar to PoS networks such as Ethereum, leading to millions of idle Bitcoins. The evolving blockchain landscape, especially Proof-of-Stake chains, demands consistent security and liquidity contributions, a role Bitcoin has yet to play significantly.</p><p>Current yield-generating solutions for Bitcoin involve moving assets to centralized platforms, which must be wrapped or stored in custodial wallets. This introduces risks such as hacks and regulatory issues, undermining the blockchain's decentralization and security principles.</p><p>Babylon addresses these issues by offering a decentralized alternative that not only opens up new opportunities for Bitcoin holders to generate yields but also enhances the security and functionality of the broader blockchain infrastructure.</p><h3 id="2-babylons-solution"><br>2. Babylon's Solution</h3><p>Babylon is a PoS protocol designed to enable Bitcoin holders to stake their BTC in a secure and non-custodial manner, allowing them to earn rewards in tokens of chains they support.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/sVlmVDQFTBG3pHPkTQz0KzC-2lAP3woc2_MCJcFTUaXbYkd4NA1lwfmsmtP7_HfjUtHWytuiFJ_o7HsayVUEUWylqoVyzMX4oh1GTI3O3KpnJf-LjY50D2icGP-Sk_BkHn0nYHLnZNKbbKrJvLFDQ1M" class="kg-image" alt loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900"></figure><p></p><p><strong>The protocol includes two protocols:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Bitcoin timestamping: </strong>This protocol sends succinct and verifiable timestamps of any data (such as PoS blockchains) to Bitcoin</li><li><strong>Bitcoin staking: </strong>This protocol allows Bitcoin, the asset, to provide economic security to any decentralized systems through trustless (and self-custodian) staking.</li></ul><p>At its core, Babylon allows Bitcoin users to directly stake their BTC, supporting Proof-of-Stake chains while simultaneously earning yields in tokens of chains they support. This capability transforms idle Bitcoin into active, yield-generating assets without requiring holders to relinquish control or security.</p><p><strong>The key features of Babylon include:</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Yield Generation:</strong> Users can earn rewards by staking their BTC directly on the platform.</li><li><strong>Fast Unbonding: </strong>A quick unbonding process allows users to withdraw their staked Bitcoin promptly.</li><li><strong>Non-Custodial Staking: </strong>Users maintain complete control over their BTC without transferring them to a third party.</li><li><strong>EOTS Signature for Security:</strong> This ensures security by ensuring the staked Bitcoin is locked and accounted for.</li><li><strong>Cross-Chain Interoperability: </strong>Facilitates interactions between different blockchain networks, enhancing the utility and reach of staked assets.</li><li><strong>Slashing Mechanism:</strong> Implements measures to penalize bad actors, thus safeguarding the network's integrity and user assets.</li></ol><p>Babylon presents an innovative and secure solution to the problems faced by Bitcoin holders and the broader blockchain ecosystem. </p><h3 id="3-how-does-it-generally-work">3. How does it generally work</h3><p>A user with BTC can secure the Babylon chain or other Cosmos PoS chains while receiving yields in their tokens. To do this, the user must lock their BTC coins on Bitcoin. Because Bitcoin doesn't support smart contracts, the user should initiate the staking process using a <a href="https://academy.binance.com/en/glossary/unspent-transaction-output-utxo?ref=p2p.org"><u>UTXO transaction</u></a> that creates a time lock for the BTC coins. This UTXO transaction has three main outputs: the time lock can expire, allowing withdrawal; the user can unbond their transaction before expiration; the transaction can be slashed if a validator acts maliciously.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/TlrRoo92Dv84SpZHXzPnf9Fld9RkMzwLc0MVuWAzbK1S5BfGbTDuaUNClgNPnCZcBGLuoDp57M9SR37k4b5hluaJY_52VYLSx0_d8sNUS1RivRQ65CI1o3t5gSg0GZqh4887RHI9GXK1O7YdkFNgwlg" class="kg-image" alt loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900"></figure><p>After signing the transaction, the user delegates their BTC tokens to a finality provider, who can validate the transaction. This allows the user to receive yield if the provider secures blocks correctly. However, if the finality provider acts maliciously, it can be slashed.</p><p>The cornerstone of the entire model is the pre-signed slashing transaction and EOTS keys. When staking, the user pre-signs a slashing transaction that can be broadcast to the network if the finality provider acts maliciously. If the provider double-signs a block, its EOTS keys are revealed, and the covenant committee can sign the pre-approved transaction using the finality provider’s private key.</p><ol><li><strong>Detection of malicious activity</strong>: Finality providers detect malicious activity, such as another finality provider signing a block twice.</li><li><strong>Exposure of private key:</strong> If malicious activity is detected, the malicious finality provider’s private key is leaked.</li><li><strong>Notification and slashing:</strong> The finality providers notify the covenant committee, which signs the pre-signed slashing transaction using the exposed private key and broadcasts it to the network.</li><li><strong>Slashing transaction:</strong> A predetermined amount of Bitcoins is sent to a burn address as a penalty for the malicious activity.</li></ol><p>The process results in securing PoS chains and receiving yields for BTC tokens, which depend on the chains the user secures. Initially, the Babylon chain will start on the mainnet by ensuring only the Babylon chain itself. Still, stakers can secure other Cosmos chains and receive yields in their tokens.</p><h3 id="4-investors-and-market-confidence">4. Investors and Market Confidence</h3><p>Babylon has successfully secured substantial funding across several rounds, showcasing strong market trust and investor interest in its innovative approach to Bitcoin staking.</p><p><strong>Seed Round: </strong>Babylon initiated its funding journey by raising $8.8 million in a seed round led by IDG and Breyer Capital, emphasizing early support from established investors in transformative technologies.</p><p><strong>Series A Funding: </strong>The momentum continued with a Series A round that raised $16 million. This round was co-led by Polychain Capital and Hack VC and saw additional participation from Framework Ventures, Polygon Ventures, Castle Island Ventures, OKX Ventures, Finality Capital, Breyer Capital, Symbolic Capital, and IOSG Ventures. The diverse investor base in this round highlights a robust endorsement of Babylon’s technology and strategic direction.</p><figure class="kg-card kg-image-card"><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/iOnLuQ4shVuFqN2B21LVeJzjF_xoeqOL8i5TivZan-49K6WHj6VtPMleRAZe0IRWU-j-KxO0wvO7sRt0vH0kvNTZtwqKUYTtLcGbYESkTieJT3rXMjDY_JujXlt_4a0S8RU3bcv5k3EH0d1CPhT5wkg" class="kg-image" alt loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900"></figure><p><strong>Last Round: </strong>Binance Labs made the most recent investment, reflecting significant strategic backing. This partnership provides financial resources and enhances Babylon’s capabilities in technology development and global market positioning.</p><p>These investment milestones fund Babylon's growth and affirm its potential as a significant player in the evolving landscape of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency.</p><h3 id="5-how-to-participate">5. How to Participate</h3><p>If you're interested in participating in the launch of Babylon, we recommend two main directions for involvement:</p><ol><li><strong>Testnet Participation:</strong> Engage with the Babylon testnet by staking your SignetBTC directly on Babylon’s <a href="https://btcstaking.babylonchain.io/?ref=p2p.org"><u>official website</u></a>. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the platform’s features and functionalities without risking real assets.</li><li><strong>Support for Large Bitcoin Holders: </strong>If you hold a significant amount of Bitcoin, don't hesitate to contact our team. We can provide tailored validator solutions that will be optimal for you when the mainnet launches.<br></li></ol><p>The Babylon is currently in the testnet phase, with the mainnet launch anticipated by the end of the first half of the year. The new testnet (bbn-test-4) will focus on the security of staked Bitcoins by testing user interactions with the BTC Signet test network. The Babylon team plans to launch this new testnet towards the end of May 2024. The team is closely monitoring updates and feedback from the community to ensure the robustness and security of the network before the mainnet launch. </p><p></p><h1 id="about-p2p-validator"><strong>About P2P Validator</strong></h1><p><a href="https://p2p.org/?ref=p2p.org">P2P Validator</a> is a world-leading non-custodial staking provider, securing over $7 billion from over 10,000 delegators/nominators across 40+ high-class networks.</p><p>Do not hesitate to ask questions in our <a href="https://t.me/P2Pstaking?ref=p2p.org">Telegram</a> chat or contact our team directly on X or LinkedIn. We are always open to communication.</p><hr><p><strong>Web:</strong> <a href="https://p2p.org/?ref=p2p.org">https://p2p.org</a></p><p><strong>Twitter:</strong> <a href="https://twitter.com/p2pvalidator?ref=p2p.org">@p2pvalidator</a></p><p><strong>Telegram:</strong> <a href="https://t.me/P2Pstaking?ref=p2p.org">https://t.me/P2Pstaking</a><br><br><br><br></p>
from p2p validator