This PIP introduces the first PRC, defining the smart contract interfaces and interactions between all components of the Polygon Staking Layer.
The Polygon Staking Layer, as introduced in PIP-18, is a standardized set of smart contracts that facilitate decentralized restaking within the Polygon ecosystem. The Staking Layer allows stakers to take on slashing risk in exchange for the ability to validate services.
The motivation behind the Staking Layer is to provide a central place for security within the Polygon ecosystem. This can include Chain Development Kit (CDK) networks, as well as other potential services within the Polygon ecosystem. The restaking mechanism allows for higher capital efficiency and lower liquidity fragmentation for stakers securing various aspects of the ecosystem. New services like new CDK chains benefit from a shared security model, which lowers the cost of securing the network or service.