Rocket Pool

Rocket Pool is hosting a Community Call to discuss progress on the Saturn upgrade and testnet participation opportunities. The call will take place at 1am UTC in the Rocket Pool Discord. Key points: - Latest Saturn upgrade progress updates - Instructions for testnet participation - Review of bi-weekly protocol news - Live Q&A session expected Join the discussion: [Rocket Pool Discord](discord.gg/rocketpool)

Rocket Pool has released Devnet-4, the fourth and final Smart Node development network for testing the Saturn upgrade. Key features to test: - 4 ETH validators - MEGAPOOLS functionality - Simulated mainnet upgrade process The devnet currently runs on Houston contracts and will transition to Saturn contracts next week to mirror the upcoming mainnet deployment. Developers can access the latest build at [GitHub](github.com/rocket-pool/smart) to participate in testing. *Previous testing environments have been available since June 2025 on Hoodi testnet.*

Rocket Pool demonstrates a unique approach to DAO governance, emphasizing true decentralization over venture capital influence. Key features: - Permissionless decision-making system - Quadratic voting mechanism preventing large stakeholder dominance - Decentralized on-chain execution - Hundreds of active node operators participating in governance As Vitalik Buterin noted, *Even a billion dollars of capital cannot compete with a project having a soul*. The protocol prioritizes community-driven improvements over insider enrichment, aligning with Ethereum's core values since inception. The governance structure enables broad participation while preventing concentration of power, creating what may be the largest active community of Ethereum advocates in protocol governance.

NASDAQ-listed BTCS has implemented a strategic approach to ETH staking through Rocket Pool's smart contracts, achieving approximately 50% higher returns compared to traditional custodial solutions. Key points: - Rocket Pool offers permissionless staking from 8 ETH - Recently received SEC clarity on liquid staking compliance - Platform supports decentralization through thousands of independent node operators - Provides bonus staking commission opportunities The move demonstrates how institutions can leverage decentralized protocols for treasury management while supporting Ethereum's core values of credible neutrality and censorship resistance. [Watch Community Call](https://youtu.be/WWfRkORCvIs)

The Smart Node protocol has released version 1.16.0, bringing important updates for node operators. Key updates include: - Multiple client updates - New features - Recommended upgrade for all node operators Node operators should review the complete changelog at [GitHub Release Notes](https://github.com/rocket-pool/smartnode/releases/tag/v1.16.0) before proceeding with the upgrade. Additional support and discussions are available on the Discord channel.

The Rocket Pool Smoothing Pool completed its June distribution, paying out 50 ETH to eligible node operators. This represents a slight decrease from April's 51 ETH distribution. Key features of the Smoothing Pool: - Free opt-in participation - No fees - 28-day distribution cycle - Stable rewards vs volatile Execution Layer Node operators can join anytime to earn their share of pooled ETH rewards.

Rocket Pool is preparing to launch its most significant upgrade since inception - Saturn. Key features include: - Protocol ETH revenue will be directed to staked RPL holders - DAO-adjustable revenue distribution ratio - Support for 4 ETH validators - Introduction of MEGAPOOLS Development is nearly complete with audits beginning soon. The protocol recently processed over $14M in ETH stakes, clearing the validator minipool queue. Node operators can start with just 8 ETH, with optional RPL staking for increased commission. [Read the full announcement](medium.com/rocket-pool/rocke)

Liquity Protocol has announced V2 integration with Rocket Pool, creating a comprehensive platform for $rETH liquid stakers. The update offers: - Competitive borrowing rates through enhanced capital efficiency - Multiple options for $rETH utilization - 75% of borrower fees directed to Stability Pool depositors - $BOLD yield opportunities without counterparty risk **Key Features:** - Predictable yields from stablecoin interest - ETH liquidation gains - Market-driven returns via tight spreads *Risk Factors:* - Market volatility - Liquidation risks - Gas costs - Smart contract vulnerabilities - Oracle risks [Learn more about mechanics](https://www.liquity.org/blog/liquity-v2-bold-stability-pool-opportunities)

Ethereum's Pectra upgrade is scheduled to go live within 24 hours. **Critical requirements for Rocket Pool node operators**: - Must run Smart Node v1.15.5 or v1.15.6 - Nimbus v25.4.1 integration included in v1.15.6 - Updates to Lighthouse and Geth clients available @langerstwit will host an educational livestream about the upgrade on @NethermindEth at 9am UTC. **Important**: Review GitHub documentation before installation. Node operators must complete upgrades before the mainnet hard fork.

The Smart Node protocol has released version 1.15.4, bringing important updates for node operators. Key updates include: - Multiple client updates - Support for Hoodi testnet integration - Recommended upgrade for all node operators For detailed release notes and upgrade instructions, visit [GitHub Release Page](https://github.com/rocket-pool/smartnode-install/releases/tag/v1.15.4). Join the Discord community for additional support and information.