MetaMask, a wallet developed by Consensys, has launched the Validator Staking feature in MetaMask Portfolio, allowing users to manage their own Ethereum validator nodes, but with a 10 percent fee.

According to the Jan. 18 announcement, the feature will allow users to manage their own Ethereum validator node without the complexities of pooling or the need for specialized hardware.

MetaMask will manage validator nodes for those who contribute 32 Ether (ETH), a commitment worth about $78,752 based on current Ethereum market prices.

The cryptocurrency wallet provider will secure and efficiently manage these nodes, promising to make it easier to earn rewards for bets while reducing the risks associated with layoffs and downtime.

Consensys, the company running the new service, boasts a decent track record: it has operated for over two years without any slashing penalties, managing over $2 billion in ETH on over 33,000 validators.

The service may particularly appeal to newcomers or decentralization advocates, as it removes the centralization concerns associated with large liquid betting providers like Lido.

After fees are taken into account, the net yield from betting through MetaMask is comparable to the 3.4% offered by Lido. Ethereum holders can also use centralized exchanges such as Coinbase, but they charge a much larger 25 percent discount on betting fees.

This latest development follows MetaMask’s recent expansion of its global presence. In December, the company announced new partnerships in several countries including Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Egypt, and Chile to offer users more localized options.

By partnering with various payment solutions such as VietQR, GCash, and QRIS, MetaMask is making strides in integrating its services into the financial ecosystems of these regions.