EigenLayer
EigenLayer is a protocol built on Ethereum that introduces a new cryptoeconomic primitive known as "restaking." Unlike traditional staking pools, restaking allows assets to be reused to secure multiple Actively Validated Services (AVS) with the same capital.
In addition, EigenLayer is purpose-built to allow ETH that is already staked and participating in Ethereum consensus to be reused to secure additional services.
Risks and Rewards
Similar to staking ETH to participate in Ethereum validation, restaking assets to participate in AVS validation is a commitment that carries potential penalties in the form of slashing, but is compensated with additional rewards for each service validated.
EigenPod
To facilitate the reuse of natively staked Ethereum, EigenLayer employs what is called an EigenPod. These contracts manage the accounting and restaking of ETH in validators that are actively participating in Ethereum consensus.
Any withdrawals made from the consensus layer are held in escrow by the EigenPod to allow the AVS time to verify that all validation duties are completed successfully.
EigenLayer and Rio Network
Rio is tightly integrated with EigenLayer and acts as a restaking pool, functionally akin to mining or validator pools, such that it aggregates restaking capital and attempts to optimally route it over an AVS set for the best risk-adjusted rewards.
Due to this tight coupling with EigenLayer, Rio is downstream of any imposed limitations and restrictions, such as the withdrawal delay.
Further Study
There's a wealth of resources already available that describe EigenLayer. Check out these links to learn more:
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